Assembly Operator

  • Gooch & Housego (G&H Ilminster)
  • Ilminster, Somerset
  • Mar 09, 2026
Full time Engineering

Job Description

OPPORTUNITY TO JOIN A LEADING GLOBAL MANUFACTURER OF PRECISION OPTICS

Full Time Permanent Position, Monday to Friday

Do you have a background in ultra-precision manufacturing or engineering work?

Do you have a keen eye for detail?

If so, we want to hear from you

ABOUT US

G&H is a world leader in optical designing, testing and manufacturing. As experts in the technology of light, G&H works with customers to provide optical systems, assemblies, and components for demanding applications

Headquartered in Ilminster Somerset, UK with primary operations in the USA and Europe, G&H is recognised for the breadth of their acousto-optic, electro-optic, crystal-optic, fibre optic, and precision optic products. G&H is recognised as the preferred source for OEMs in the life sciences, industrial, and aerospace and defence industries, with a history of quality and excellence that dates back over seventy-five years.

Our success is built on innovation, precision, and the talent of our people. We are committed to developing capability at every stage of a career, from apprenticeships and graduate pathways through to leadership development.

ROLE

The Assembly Operator is responsible preparing and assembling mechanical components by interpreting assembly instructions and parts lists.

  • To set up machinery, processes or equipment to enable the safe manufacture of optics throughout the production process.
  • To follow written procedures to ensure the best methods and equipment are used at any given time.
  • Take responsibility of department/cell quality, output, safety and improvement targets.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Set up and operate production equipment in accordance with manufacturing practices and standard operating procedures
  • Pack finished products
  • Clean production equipment and work areas
  • Proactively engage in the continuous improvement to make efficiencies and be more productive
  • Inspection
  • Training and working within a small team, assembling periscopes and opto-mechanical sights for armoured vehicles
  • Mix adhesives and prepare metal to optics bonding
  • Bond optical surfaces together for substrates and laser protection filters
  • Set optical sub-assemblies to the correct orientation
  • Inspect Optics and Metal work to required specification
  • Follow the MRB process for non-conforming parts
  • Perform AQL inspection on some parts
  • Ensure history card and other documentation is completed
  • Set up and operate production equipment in accordance with manufacturing practices and standard operating procedures
  • Maintain clean production equipment and work areas
  • As part of a team, cover the roles of colleagues and provide assistance when required
  • Comply with Health and Safety procedures
  • Adhere to all company policies and procedures, including those in relation to Quality
  • Management

PERFORMANCE MEASURES

  • Positions parts and subassemblies by using templates or reading measurements.
  • Assembles components by examining connections for correct fit; fastening parts and subassemblies.
  • Verifies specifications by measuring completed products as required.
  • Time keeping and attendance

WE'RE LOOKING FOR APPLICANT WITH THE FOLLOWING SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

  • Experience in a production environment.
  • Ability to follow instructions accurately
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Team player
  • Good level of numeracy and literacy
  • Positive can do attitude
  • Punctual and adaptable to change
  • Flexible approach to working and shift patterns
  • Willingness to learn and develop skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Methodical approach
  • Ability to work in a fast pace environment and to meet deadlines

OUR BENEFITS INCLUDE

  • Generous overtime pay: 1.5x after 39 hours and 2x on Sundays and Bank Holidays.
  • 25 days of holiday plus Bank Holidays.
  • Pension contributions: Company pays 6%.
  • Company bonus scheme.
  • Health Cash Plan to cover medical expenses.
  • £500 referral bonus for recommending friends (terms apply).
  • Cycle to work scheme

Ready to join a leader in Optical Technology? Take your career to the next level with G&H. Apply today and be part of a team that s shaping the future of optics!