At a Glance
- Tasks: Support quality assurance activities and drive improvements in advanced space programmes.
- Company: Join Airbus Defence & Space, a leader in aerospace innovation.
- Benefits: Earn £23,000, enjoy half-day Fridays, 25 days holiday, and flexible perks.
- Other info: Experience team-building adventures and develop essential engineering skills.
- Why this job: Launch your career with hands-on training in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: 112 UCAS points in STEM subjects and strong communication skills required.
Start date: September 2026
Location: Airbus Defence & Space Stevenage
Duration: 4 years
University: University o f Warwick
Degree: BEng Applied Professional Engineering
Application: We love your interest in joining Airbus! There is no limit on the number of positions you can apply for. However, please be aware that you can only progress in the selection process for one position at a time . We recommend reviewing all available opportunities and applying to those that best match your experience and aspirations.
Application closing date: We encourage you to apply early to avoid missing out on this opportunity! Please note we will close adverts as soon as we receive sufficient applications.
Benefits:
Salary: £23,000
37 hours per week Half day Fridays! 25 days holiday plus bank holidays Pension Success share Plus many more flexible benefits!
subject to completing full hours prior to this
About us:
Launch an exciting career by joining our Airbus Apprenticeship Programme! Our Apprentices receive second to none training, gaining the necessary skills, knowledge and experience to enable you to make an immediate contribution when you enter the workforce. We are hiring young people who will develop the skills we need to fill the critical roles for our future.
By the end of the programme, our aim is that you are ready to progress, having already demonstrated your value. You will have developed your skills in an area that is strategically important for Airbus, you will know about the Airbus business, the opportunities, challenges and needs, and you will have learned more about yourself, and what makes you great.
Above all you will have the opportunity to do your best work in an industry that is literally reshaping how we live in our world.
If you are ready to join and be part of this journey please apply below.
The Spacecraft Production Quality Assurance team is a dynamic group of people, with a common goal of driving down the cost of non-quality within the business. Whilst working on some of the most advanced space programs in the world. In addition to this function, the Quality department has the objective to drive and influence the company to reduce the cost of quality and the cost of non-quality, data analytics also form an important part of this function.
What you will be doing:
Your role is going to be a mix of two existing functions:
Responsible QA: You will be supporting the general day to day Quality Assurance activities, including non-conformance management, Key inspection activities in cleanroom and driving non quality prevention (Root cause analysis ).
- Write Quality Surveillance Plans (QSP);
- Chair gate reviews as defined in the project (Manufacturing Readiness Review, Integration Readiness Review, Test Readiness Review, Test Readiness Board, Delivery Review Board, Pre-Shipment Review, Shipment Readiness Review );
- Deliver quality briefs with the area manager in the shop floor to raise awareness to operators on lessons learned and good practice;
- Prepare incoming inspection checklists;
- Review Production work instructions;
- Manage all Non Conformance Reports;
- Chair Internal Review Board (IRB);
- Chair practical problem solving (PPS);
- Proactively promote and conduct risk analyses;
- Elaborate audit plan and perform flash and process audits;
- Ensure that lessons learned & near miss actions are implemented;
- Provide monthly report of Quality Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
Improvement QA: Supporting the Improvement quality engineer on all the different improvement projects on-going: development of new digital dashboards, implementation of new inspection tools (3D scanning ) or processes.
- Develop business cases for changes and improvement against local requirements;
- Provide inputs to the definition of the Production Quality improvement Strategy;
- Develop, manage and lead improvement projects providing regular progress and cost reports to the management team;
- Provide Training on new concepts resulting from Production Quality improvement initiatives;
- Support and coordinate improvement project deployment and stabilization on a day-to-day basis;
- Develop and deploy the Production Quality Improvements Communication plan both internally and externally;
- Support any cross-site, trans-functional and trans-national improvement actions;
- Provide reports as required by functional and project management;
- Provide monthly reports of Quality Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) on improvement initiatives.
Outward Bound:
During the 1st year of the apprenticeship, you will attend a week of Team Building Activities and Exercises at one of the Outward-Bound UK Sites. Split up into teams consisting of Apprentices of all levels from various Airbus Defence and Space sites, you will work as a team to complete daily activities such as Rock Climbing, Hiking, Abseiling, Canoeing and more.
Requirements:
In order to be eligible to this apprenticeship, you must have a minimum of:
- 112 UCAS points made up of A level in Maths at Grade B or above, and 2 additional A levels or equivalent level 3 qualifications in STEM subjects or Engineering (Physics recommended)
- GCSE grades C/4 in Maths , English Language and additional STEM subject
Successful candidates will be able to demonstrate the following:
- Knowledge and understanding: Commitment to continue personal development, refreshing and expanding engineering knowledge through a variety of methods;
- Design and development of processes, systems, services and products: Contributing to the continuing development of engineering within their domain;
- Responsibility and management skills: Taking personal responsibility for their actions, managing projects;
- Communication and inter-personal skills: Be able to demonstrate a range of communication styles and methods. Understanding the importance of networks within and across functions;
- Professional commitment: Demonstrating a personal and professional commitment to society, their profession and the environment, adopting a set of values and behaviours that will maintain and enhance the reputation of the profession;
- Submit your CV stating your grades and if they are predicted or achieved;
- Submit a Cover Letter highlighting your passion and suitability for this apprenticeship.
BOOST YOUR APPLICATION:
We want to get to know you -not just your grades or school background so, tell us on your cover letter:
- Why Airbus and this apprenticeship?
What is it about Airbus that makes you excited to start a career with us? What is it about our company, our values, or the future of aerospace that excites you? We want to hear about what motivates you to pursue this unique path and how you see yourself growing with us. - What skills and experience do you bring?
Think about projects, hobbies, or academic subjects that have given you practical experience. This could include personal projects, academic work and extracurricular activities.
Important Information:
GRADES: If you are on predicted grades, your offer will be conditional to achieving the position s requirements before the apprenticeship start date.
SECURITY CLEARANCE: Eligibility to gain UK SC Security Clearance OR You will be subject to a BPSS check (including a criminal record check).
RIGHT TO WORK IN THE UK: Candidates must have current legal authorisation to work in the United Kingdom for the full duration of the programme. For more information, please check the Government Website .
LEVY FUNDING: Successful candidates must be eligible for the levy funding.
Our apprenticeship roles do not meet the minimum requirements set by UK Visas & Immigration to enable sponsorship of migrant workers.
AI Guidance: We know you might be thinking about using AI to help you in your application - before you do, please read our guidelines on the use of AI for recruitment at Airbus Use of AI Guidance .
Contact:
Please let us know if you need us to make any adjustments to allow you to access and participate fully in the recruitment process. If you wish to discuss this further please contact via email . Any information disclosed will be treated in the strictest confidence.
This job requires an awareness of any potential compliance risks and a commitment to act with integrity, as the foundation for the Company s success, reputation and sustainable growth.
Company:
AIRBUS Defence and Space Limited
Employment Type:
Apprenticeship
-
Experience Level:
Student
Job Family:
Support to Management
By submitting your CV or application you are consenting to Airbus using and storing information about you for monitoring purposes relating to your application or future employment . click apply for full job details
Quality Assurance Engineering Degree Apprenticeship in Watford employer: AIRBUS Defence and Space Limited
Airbus Defence & Space is an exceptional employer, offering a unique apprenticeship programme that combines hands-on experience with academic learning at the University of Warwick. Located in Stevenage, our vibrant work culture promotes collaboration and innovation, while our commitment to employee growth ensures that apprentices are well-prepared for future roles within the company. With competitive benefits including a salary of £23,000, half-day Fridays, and extensive training opportunities, joining Airbus means embarking on a rewarding career in the aerospace industry.
Contact Details:
AIRBUS Defence and Space Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Quality Assurance Engineering Degree Apprenticeship in Watford
✨Get Hands-On at Local Workshops
Don’t miss out on local engineering workshops and hackathons! They’re a brilliant way to learn something new, meet fellow aspiring engineers, and often, company reps will be scouting for fresh talent. Plus, you can mention your hands-on experiences at these events during your interviews!
✨Join Engineering Societies and Clubs
Get involved with engineering societies at your school or in your area. These communities often host talks, networking events, and even competitions, which can open doors to apprenticeship opportunities. Plus, chatting with industry professionals is never a bad idea!
✨Show Off Your Passion Online
Consider starting a blog or a social media account where you can share your engineering projects, ideas, and learnings. This not only demonstrates your passion but also your initiative. Share the link on your application to really showcase who you are!
✨Don’t Wait, Apply Early!
Apprenticeships often have early application windows, so keep an eye on AIRBUS Defence and Space Limited’s website and get your applications in as soon as you can. The earlier you apply, the more likely you are to secure an interview and land that coveted position!
We think you need these skills to ace Quality Assurance Engineering Degree Apprenticeship in Watford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for an engineering apprenticeship at AIRBUS Defence and Space Limited, make sure to highlight any relevant technical skills and subjects you've excelled in. Include specific projects or coursework that demonstrate your understanding of engineering principles—anything from physics projects to CAD designs can really make your application stand out!
Include Your Learning Experience:Since this is an apprenticeship, we want to see how keen you are to learn. In your cover letter, talk about what you hope to gain from this opportunity at AIRBUS Defence and Space Limited and how it aligns with your career goals. Don’t be shy—express your enthusiasm for getting hands-on experience!
Tailor Your CV for Engineering:Make sure your CV reflects your passion for engineering. List relevant coursework, skills, and any hands-on experiences like workshops or engineering clubs. Feel free to use a clear and structured layout so it's easy for the hiring team at AIRBUS Defence and Space Limited to see your qualifications at a glance.
Keep it Visual—If Possible!:If you've worked on any engineering projects, consider including visual elements in your application—like pictures, graphs or even a small portfolio link. This isn’t mandatory, but visuals can help us appreciate your work and problem-solving skills more effectively!
How to prepare for a job interview at AIRBUS Defence and Space Limited
✨Showcase Your Passion for Engineering
Since you're applying for an apprenticeship, it’s crucial to demonstrate your genuine enthusiasm for engineering. Be ready to talk about any projects you've done, be it in school or in your spare time, as this shows your commitment and eagerness to learn on the job at AIRBUS Defence and Space Limited.
✨Get Hands-On with Technical Questions
Expect some technical queries related to basic engineering principles. Brush up on subjects you’ve covered in your studies, such as materials science or thermodynamics. They might throw a scenario your way to gauge how you would approach solving a problem—don't be afraid to think aloud!
✨Demonstrate Your Teamwork Skills
Apprenticeships often require working in teams, so be prepared to discuss how you've worked with others in school or during any group projects. Share specific examples that reflect your ability to collaborate and communicate effectively, as this is highly valued in engineering roles at AIRBUS Defence and Space Limited.
✨Ask About Learning Opportunities
Make sure to prepare some questions about the apprenticeship itself, like how training will be structured or the types of projects you'll tackle. Showing curiosity about your growth will impress the interviewers at AIRBUS Defence and Space Limited, demonstrating that you're ready to dive into the learning experience.
