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Vacancies

We are always on the lookout for people with a passion for engineering and an interest in the historic. All our current vacancies are listed below. If there's nothing that suits you right now and you would like to register your interest in joining us, then send us your details using the link at the bottom of this page.

What makes us a great career choice

For some people, the sight of a warbird taking to the skies and the unmistakeable sound of a large piston engine, tuned to perfection and on full throttle arouses a passion and a longing for the days of some of mans finest achievements. Born in a time when we faced our darkest hours, the engineering marvels created to meet those challenges have a special place in our hearts. Keeping these aircraft in the air for future generations to enjoy is what drives us.

Here at Retro we can offer a unique opportunity to play a significant role in maintaining the last of these historic warbirds. No matter what role you have here, you’ll get the chance to work on and around the most significant piston engines of the era. Engines manufactured by many of the great names from the past, sadly, some no longer here, pass through our gates. Each one delivering challenges in the modern world, where original manufacturers support has all but dried up. Spare parts are increasingly hard to find and innovative yet historically accurate solutions, are all that keep these historic aircraft in the skies.

“Working as a Design Engineer at Retro provides opportunities and experiences that are unparalleled elsewhere in the aerospace engineering industry. Through our varied design projects, I am constantly expanding my engineering knowledge, both from experienced colleagues in the business and intense study of period design data. Not only do we enjoy the satisfaction of uncovering the intent behind revolutionary engine designs, but we are also regularly presented with a wide range of multidisciplinary challenges.

Designing bespoke tooling, researching alternative materials and trialling experimental manufacturing processes are all examples of thoroughly rewarding projects from my first year at Retro. As an engineering fanatic, the opportunity to apply engineering knowledge gained at university alongside practical engineering skills in order to keep warbirds flying is an absolute privilege, and something to be very proud of.”

Laurence - Design Engineer at Retro Track and Air

Current vacancies - Last Updated 22/03/2024

Below are the roles we are currently trying to fill. If you’d like to apply for any of the roles currently open, please click on the link at the bottom of the relevant advertised position and email your CV to us, along with any other supporting information you feel might be of interest. Remember to quote the job title in your response and take your first step to becoming a part of the Retro family.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Due to considerable success and company expansion, Retro Track and Air (UK) Ltd are looking to add to our thriving design team with the addition of Lead Design Engineers.

We are looking for experienced Design Engineers. If you’re a driven & highly motivated person wishing to craft out a successful and rewarding future in what is a truly unique environment, this could be the role for you. You will be working on a variety of legacy aerospace projects of a multidisciplinary nature for Aero – Structures, Aero-Engines & Systems, from the golden age of flight and into the Second World War. As such, you will be directly responsible for the continued flight capability of the UK’s last remaining warbird fleet.

This role would suit someone who has considerable design experience. Most likely, but not exclusively, from an Aerospace background. On offer is full training on all our internal systems, alongside the chance to technically progress within the business and work on highly interesting historical aerospace engineering projects.

The company is based on the outskirts of Dursley, Gloucestershire, perfect for someone looking to work at a local site with great transport links and away from the hustle of nearby cities. We are looking to develop our Design team, building on an expanding demand from our customers and seek a dedicated Lead Engineer to join the business.

All in all, this is a fantastic opportunity to play a significant role in the development of a passionate team within a unique organisation who can offer training, technical progression, and an opportunity to diversify your skills on a range of projects.

THE ROLE:

  • Project Leading in our busy CAA Approved Design Organisation.
  • Developing complete approved Design solutions.
  • Compliance Verification of Design artefacts
  • CAD Modelling through to detail drawing generation.
  • Liaison with customers, sub-contractors & staff.

 

THE PERSON:

  • Degree educated or equivalent in Aeronautical or Mechanical Engineering.
  • Significant experience as a Design Engineer, with a project lead role.
  • Mentoring and sound design guidance to develop project team members.
  • Team player.
  • Strong research and analytical skills
  • Excellent interpersonal communications skills
  • In-depth knowledge of Civil & Military Aviation regulations an advantage
  • Strong understanding of business management principles
  • Working knowledge of relevant software tools and computer literacy
  • Attention to detail.

 

Salary: Negotiable, Highly competitive for right candidate.

 

Benefits:

  • Additional leave
  • Company pension
  • On-site parking

 

Schedule:

  • 8 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday

 

Experience:

  • 10 years (preferred)

 

COVID-19 considerations:
Applicants invited for interview will be informed of any special arrangements in place with regard to Covid.

 

APPLY FOR THIS ROLE

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Due to continued considerable success and company expansion, Retro Track and Air are looking to develop our thriving team with a dynamic, self-motivated Mechanical Systems Technician. With significant contracts already in place, we continue to secure high-profile public-sector contracts.

Retro Track & Air (UK) Ltd is a pioneering CAA approved design, production & maintenance organisation, established in 1987 by passionate aviation and racing car enthusiasts. Rooted in a profound love for aviation, Retro aims to be a formidable replacement for lost wartime OEMs. Over the years, we have emerged as an unrivalled leader in the industry, offering exceptional engineering expertise and fostering an impeccable reputation for vintage piston engine aircraft repair and overhaul from the WW2 era.

If you are a Mechanical Systems Technician, looking for a truly unique opportunity to craft out a successful future, then this is the perfect opportunity. You will be working on a variety of legacy aerospace projects of a multidisciplinary nature & activities covering Design, Production & Maintenance of Aircraft, Aero-Engines & Systems, from the golden age of flight and shortly beyond the end of the Second World War.

On offer is full training on all our internal systems alongside the chance to technically progress within the business and work on highly interesting historical aero-engineering projects.

The company is based on the outskirts of Dursley, Gloucestershire, perfect for someone looking to work at a local site with great transport links and away from the hustle of nearby cities. We are looking to develop the Management team, building on an expanding demand from our customers and seek a driven & engaging individual to join the business.

This role would suit a motivated, experienced Mechanical Systems Technician with a real passion for engineering. Relevant interests alongside an engineering apprenticeship are a real advantage. These could include any form of transportation, propulsion systems, vehicle maintenance, historical engineering etc.

All in all, this is a fantastic opportunity to play a significant role in the development of a passionate team within a unique organisation who can offer an opportunity to be involved in a diverse range of projects.

 

JOB SUMMARY:

As a Mechanical Systems Technician, you will play a crucial role in the maintenance, servicing, repair & overhaul of vintage aero engines, ensuring they operate safely and efficiently while preserving their historical authenticity.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Conduct thorough inspections of vintage aircraft propulsion systems to assess their condition and identify any issues or required repairs.
  • Skilfully disassemble, clean, and reassemble vintage aircraft engines, paying meticulous attention to historical accuracy.
  • Repair or replace worn, damaged, or faulty engine components using approved data & best practice.
  • Ensure all maintenance and repair work aligns with configuration standards and adheres to approved publications and specifications.
  • Implement strict quality control measures to ensure craftsmanship and safety excellence in all engine servicing activities.
  • Collaborate with procurement teams to source engine parts and components, including A8-24/23 requirements.
  • Maintain comprehensive documentation of the work performed, parts used, and modifications.
  • Stay up to date with relevant UK aviation regulations and guidelines, including A8-24/23 requirements, to ensure compliance with industry standards and local regulations.
  • Provide guidance and training to junior technicians in the field of vintage aircraft propulsion systems.

 

REQUIREMENTS:

  • GCSEs or equivalent qualifications, including Mathematics and English.
  • Relevant technical certifications or training in aircraft maintenance are desirable.
  • Proven experience in maintaining, repairing, and restoring vintage aircraft propulsion systems is desirable.
  • In-depth knowledge of piston engines, their components, and their maintenance requirements.
  • Familiarity with UK aviation regulations and safety protocols, including A8-24/23 guidelines is desirable.
  • Strong attention to detail and a commitment to preserving historical accuracy.
  • Ability to interpret technical manuals, blueprints, and schematics effectively.
  • Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
  • Effective communication and teamwork abilities.
  • Physical fitness and the ability to work in confined spaces.

 

Salary: £30,000.00-£40,000.00 per year

 

Benefits:

  • Competitive salary
  • Free on-site parking
  • Sick Pay
  • Flexible Working
  • Opportunities for professional growth and advancement within the organisation.
  • Additional leave
  • Company pension

 

Schedule:

  • 8 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday

 

Experience:

  • mechanical systems: 10 years (required)

 

COVID-19 considerations:

Applicants invited for interview will be informed of any special arrangements in place with regard to Covid.

 

APPLY FOR THIS ROLE

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Due to continued considerable success and company expansion, Retro Track and Air are looking to add to our thriving Production team with the addition of a further Machinist. With significant contracts already in place, we continue to secure high-profile public-sector contracts.

If you are a Machinist, looking for a truly unique opportunity to craft out a successful future based in the past, then this is the perfect opportunity. You will be working on a variety of legacy and vintage aerospace projects, covering a time period from the early days of flight up to and shortly beyond the end of the Second World War.

On offer is full training on all our internal systems alongside the chance to technically progress within the business and work on highly interesting historical aero-engineering projects.

The company is based on the outskirts of Dursley, Gloucestershire, perfect for someone looking to work at a local site with great transport links and away from the hustle of nearby cities. We are looking to develop the Manufacturing team, building on an expanding demand from our customers and seek a passionate Engineer to join the business.

This role would suit a motivated, experienced Machinist with a real passion for engineering. Relevant interests alongside an engineering apprenticeship are a real advantage. These could include any form of transportation, propulsion systems, vehicle maintenance, historical engineering etc.

All in all, this is a fantastic opportunity to work in a tight-knit, passionate team within a unique organisation who can offer training, technical progression, and an opportunity to diversify your skills on a range of projects.

 

THE ROLE:

  • Working on a wide variety of projects.
  • CNC Turning & Milling. Haas, Siemens & XYZ Proto Trak.
  • Off line CAM programming. 3, 4 & 5 axis, Fusion 360.
  • Traditional Machining, Turning, Milling & Grinding.
  • Producing parts for Spitfire aircraft & Merlin engines.

 

THE PERSON:

  • Experienced/Qualified Machinist.
  • Aviation industry background or interest is beneficial.
  • Passionate about engineering.
  • Team player.

 

Salary: £34,500.00-£45,000.00 per year

 

Benefits:

  • Additional leave
  • Casual dress
  • Company pension
  • On-site parking

 

Schedule:

  • 8 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday
  • Overtime

 

EXPERIENCE:

  • Machinist: 5 years (preferred)

 

COVID-19 considerations:

Applicants invited for interview will be informed of any special arrangements in place with regard to Covid.

APPLY FOR THIS ROLE

Don’t see a role for you?

We still want to hear from you!
Even when we have no available roles here at Retro, we're always interested to hear from people who share our passion and interests. Email a copy of your CV to us and a covering letter outlining your interest in working with us and we'll always get back to you.
Send us your CV