What you will be doing
- Year 1: You will study towards a Level 2 Engineering Operative ST0537 on the mechanical/electrical pathways, gaining both academic knowledge and practical experience.
- Year 2: During the Apprenticeship you will have a unique opportunity to experience our Propulsion Production area of the business which will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of how a Satellite is manufactured at Airbus Defence & Space.
- This includes working in small teams or on a one-to-one basis to manufacture Spacecraft Propulsion systems using the latest approved processes and advanced production techniques for Satellite manufacture.
- During the 2nd 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.
- Year 3: You will be fully on-site, fine tuning your hand skills against the business skills matrix.
Your key activities & responsibilities will be:
Mechanical Assembly
- Use of various different adhesives and bonding methods
- Use of hand measuring tools to meet tight tolerances
- Installation of various components to satellite structures
- Installation of various connector brackets
- Bonding of Heater Mats, Thermocouples and Thermostats to various surfaces
- Following process and tolerances to drawings on 3DX
Orbital Welding
- Use our state-of-the-art Orbital Welding Machines to weld together Propulsion Systems into sub-assemblies before welding the sub-assemblies together on the full Satellite Structure.
- Learn how to bend, shape and cut both Titanium and Stainless-Steel pipework to form the Propulsion System.
Electrical
- Learn various Electrical Techniques such as Crimping, Splicing, Soldering and Forming of Harnesses.
- Installation of Electrical Components such as Latch Valves, Pressure Transducers and Thrusters using End to End Harness Installation.
- Wire and route Harnesses for Heater Mats, Thermocouples and Thermostats.
Requirements
- Funding Eligibility: Applicants must be aged 16–21* and cannot hold a Level 2 or higher qualification (e.g., NVQ, BTEC, HND, or Degree) in Engineering, Aerospace, or related technical fields. For more information, please consult Foundation Apprenticeships Criteria*
- Education: No strict formal entry requirements, though a Grade 3 (or equivalent) in GCSE Maths and English is desirable.
- Skills & Attributes: Strong communication, reliability, excellent work ethic, a can-do attitude, and the ability to follow technical instructions and work well independently or in a team.
- No prior experience required—full on-the-job training will be provided.
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? What is it about Airbus that makes you excited to start a career with us? Is it our aircraft, innovation, global impact, or something else? Let us know what interests you about our work and why we stand out to you.
- Why a hands-on apprenticeship? Why do you want to learn by doing? We’d love to hear what draws you to practical, skills-based learning.
- Show your hands-on experience. In your CV or cover letter, include any hands-on activities or hobbies where you've used practical skills.
- DIY projects
- Building and fixing things
- Doing make-up or beauty work
- Tinkering and Tech Projects
- Building models
- Baking or cooking
- Others
Show Us What You've Built!
We love seeing what you are passionate about. If you've worked on any hands-on projects—whether it's building, baking, fixing something —we'd be thrilled to see it!
Feel free to attach photos, documents, or a short video showcasing a project you're proud of. This isn't a requirement, but it’s a fantastic way to give us a glimpse of your practical skills. We can't wait to see your work!
Important Information
Joint-Venture: This Job Request will be allocated to the projected Joint-Venture scope towards a leading European player in space.
GOVERNMENT FUNDING*: This role is delivered as a government-funded Level 2 Apprenticeship. For more information about the eligibility criteria, please check the link: Foundation apprenticeship
SECURITY CLEARANCE: You will be subject to a BPSS (Baseline Personnel Security Standard) check. You may also need to gain UK SC-level Security Clearance or Export Control, depending on the role.
RIGHT TO WORK IN THE UK: Candidates must have current legal authorisation to work in the United Kingdom. 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 http://airbus.com/en/careers/use-of-ai.
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 apprentices@airbus.com. 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.
About the Company
Airbus is Europe’s number one Defence and Space enterprise, so what better way to start your Craft Apprenticeship than with an industry leader.
Being a Propulsion Manufacturing Technician Craft Apprentice at Airbus means you will get to develop both Mechanical and Electrical skills within our programme. You will be immersed in a stimulating Manufacturing environment.
This apprenticeship offers a unique opportunity to launch your career in the fascinating world of space propulsion. As a Propulsion Manufacturing Technician Apprentice, you'll be part of a team that builds cutting‑edge propulsion systems for satellites and spacecraft. You'll gain hands‑on experience in a supportive and innovative environment, contributing to projects that push the boundaries of technology.
This programme is perfect for those with a passion for both mechanical and electrical precision, a knack for problem‑solving, and a keen interest in seeing their work take flight. Join us in shaping the future of space exploration!)
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. This information will only be used by Airbus.
Airbus is committed to achieving workforce diversity and creating an inclusive working environment. We welcome all applications irrespective of social and cultural background, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation or religious belief.
Airbus is, and always has been, committed to equal opportunities for all. As such, we will never ask for any type of monetary exchange in the frame of a recruitment process. Any impersonation of Airbus to do so should be reported to emsom@airbus.com.
At Airbus, we support you to work, connect and collaborate more easily and flexibly. Wherever possible, we foster flexible working arrangements to stimulate innovative thinking.
Airbus pioneers sustainable aerospace for a safe and united world. The Company constantly innovates to provide efficient and technologically‑advanced solutions in aerospace, defence, and connected services. In commercial aircraft, Airbus offers modern and fuel‑efficient airliners and associated services. Airbus is also a European leader in defence and security and one of the world’s leading space businesses. In helicopters, Airbus provides the most efficient civil and military rotorcraft solutions and services worldwide.
Propulsion Manufacturing Technician Level 2 Apprenticeship 2027 in Stevenage employer: Airbus SE
Airbus SE is an attractive employer due to its commitment to sustainability and innovation in the aerospace industry. The company provides hybrid working options and emphasizes professional development, making it a great place for career growth. Employees enjoy a collaborative work culture that encourages contributions to significant projects.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Propulsion Manufacturing Technician Level 2 Apprenticeship 2027 in Stevenage
✨Dive into Local Manufacturing Events
Get yourself out there and check out local manufacturing expos or trade shows! These events are gold mines for networking and can put you in touch with potential employers like Airbus SE. Plus, you might discover companies that are looking for apprentices directly.
✨Join Apprenticeship Networks
Look for local apprenticeship networks and community forums focused on manufacturing. Engaging in these spaces can lead you to hidden opportunities and advice from others who’ve been in your shoes — they might have inside info on which companies are hiring apprentices!
✨Reach Out Directly to Companies
Don't shy away from reaching out! If you have specific companies in mind like Airbus SE, shoot them an email or give them a call to inquire about potential apprenticeship opportunities. Sometimes, they might not have openings posted, but they’re always keen to meet passionate candidates!
✨Utilise College Resources
If you're studying, tap into your college’s career services for leads on manufacturing apprenticeships. They often have connections with local businesses and can help you polish your application to stand out. And remember, applying through our website can give you a leg up on the competition for positions at Airbus SE!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing and production sector, we want to see your hands-on skills. Make sure your CV lists any relevant technical abilities or tools you’ve worked with, like machinery or software specific to production processes. This is your chance to shine a light on any experience you already have, even if it’s just in class or through a hobby!
Highlight Your Commitment to Learning:As this is an apprenticeship, emphasising your eagerness to learn is crucial! In your cover letter, mention specific areas of manufacturing you're excited to learn about, and why you're passionate about joining Airbus SE. Show us you’re ready to dive into the practical world of production!
Include Relevant Qualifications:List any qualifications or certifications related to manufacturing—think health and safety, technical courses, or even basic engineering principles. It can help set you apart from others and show you come prepared and informed about the industry standards!
Keep It Relevant and Concise:When applying for an apprenticeship, make sure your documents are straightforward and relevant. Focus on your most pertinent experiences and avoid clutter. Remember, humility goes a long way—if you've worked on projects, even in a school setting, don’t hesitate to include those to reflect your capabilities!
How to prepare for a job interview at Airbus SE
✨Get Hands-On with Machinery
Since you're eyeing an apprenticeship in manufacturing-production, it's crucial to familiarise yourself with the tools and machinery related to the role. We should brush up on our basic mechanical skills and be ready to talk about any hands-on experiences we've had, like school projects or part-time work that involved manual tasks.
✨Show Your Understanding of Safety Protocols
Safety is paramount in manufacturing, so be prepared to discuss health and safety protocols relevant to the industry. We can expect questions focusing on how to maintain a safe working environment, including personal protective equipment (PPE) and hazard awareness—making sure we articulate our understanding can really impress the interviewers at Airbus SE.
✨Highlight Your Willingness to Learn
As an apprentice, they’re looking for enthusiasm and the willingness to absorb knowledge. Let’s be prepared to discuss how we’ve approached learning new skills in the past, showing we’re ready to embrace the learning curve that comes with this exciting opportunity at Airbus SE.
✨Research Typical Production Processes
It might help us to know a thing or two about basic manufacturing processes, such as assembly lines, quality control checks, and production scheduling. We could bring examples of these processes from our research or coursework to showcase our interest and understanding of the field during the interview.
