Aerospace and Defence Recruitment
Engineering and technical appointments within advanced manufacturing.
Aerospace and defence demand precision, traceability and people you can trust with sensitive work. Core Search recruits engineering and technical people for manufacturers and suppliers across aerospace, defence and space.
Who we recruit for
Precision manufacturers
Machining, fabrication and assembly of flight-critical and defence components.
Aerospace systems
Systems and equipment suppliers, from actuation and fluid systems to electronics.
Advanced materials
Composites, special processes, coatings and materials specialists.
Space and propulsion
Space propulsion, satellite and launch businesses, including the Westcott cluster.
Defence suppliers
Defence platforms, equipment and electronics suppliers and their supply chain.
Maintenance and repair
Repair, overhaul and support businesses for aerospace and defence equipment.
Disciplines we recruit in aerospace and defence
CNC, CAM and Toolroom
5-axis CNC programmers and machinists for complex aerospace parts.
Engineering, Design and Manufacturing
Design, stress, manufacturing and NPI engineers.
Quality and Test
Quality engineers and inspectors working to AS9100, FAIR and NADCAP.
Technical Supply Chain
Technical buyers who understand special processes and export control.
Engineering and Manufacturing Leadership
Engineering, operations and quality leaders.
What makes aerospace and defence hiring different
Quality and traceability standards such as AS9100, FAIR and NADCAP mean experience counts, and engineers who know them are in steady demand.
Many defence roles require security clearance, which can limit who is eligible and how quickly they can start. Getting this right at the brief saves weeks later.
How we search
- We check clearance eligibility and nationality requirements at the start, not after the interview.
- We map the market before we start, so you know how many people fit and what they earn.
- We headhunt directly across aerospace, defence and adjacent precision sectors.
- We test technical depth before you meet anyone: standards, part complexity, materials and programmes.
- We manage the offer, notice period and counter-offer, so a good process does not fall over at the last step.
Questions
Can you recruit for roles that need security clearance?
Yes. We discuss clearance requirements with you at the brief and check candidate eligibility early, so you only meet people who are eligible to go through clearance for the role.
How quickly can you shortlist?
For most roles, we share a market view within days and a shortlist within two weeks. Rare skills take longer.
What areas do you cover?
Oxfordshire, Warwickshire and the wider Midlands are our base, and we recruit nationally.
Hiring for aerospace, defence or space?
Tell us what you are trying to hire and we will tell you honestly what the market looks like.