At a Glance
- Tasks: Help design safe and efficient flight paths for aircraft using advanced modelling techniques.
- Company: Join NATS, the UK's leading air navigation service provider.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, structured training, and opportunities for career progression.
- Other info: Flexible working arrangements and a supportive, collaborative environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on aviation safety while developing specialist technical skills.
- Qualifications: Strong analytical skills, GCSE maths, and a passion for problem-solving.
The predicted salary is between 40948 - 45511 £ per year.
NATS is the UK’s leading air navigation service provider, handling over 2.4 million flights each year. We provide air traffic control services from two control centres and at airports around the UK. We also provide a wide range of commercial products and solutions internationally. Our people are at the heart of our purpose to advance aviation and keep the skies safe.
Job Purpose
Help shape the way aircraft move through the sky. At NATS, we design the invisible structures that keep air traffic safe, efficient and sustainable. Every departure, arrival and route is carefully engineered using advanced modelling, precision geometry and international standards.
We are looking for analytically strong, detail-oriented individuals to join us as Procedure Design Trainees, entering a structured development programme leading to a career as a qualified Instrument Flight Procedure Designer.
What You’ll Be Doing
- You will follow a structured training programme (approximately 24 months), combining formal courses with on-the-job learning alongside experienced designers.
- Learn to support the design and development of Instrument Flight Procedures (IFPs) used by pilots worldwide.
- Apply mathematics, geometry and spatial reasoning to real-world aviation problems.
- Use specialist CAD and GIS tools to model terrain, airspace and flight paths.
- Develop knowledge of international procedure design standards (e.g. ICAO, Eurocontrol, UK CAA).
- Contribute to design work and technical tasks under supervision.
- Build towards providing technical advice and design expertise to stakeholders.
- Over time, you will progress towards independent design capability and regulatory approval.
Who We’re Looking For
You don’t need a background in aviation. We’re interested in people who enjoy solving complex problems and working with precision.
Essential
- Strong analytical and problem-solving ability.
- Mathematics to GCSE level (including trigonometry).
- Ability to understand spatial or geometric concepts.
- Good IT skills, including Excel.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Good written and verbal communication skills.
- Interest in aviation, engineering or a related technical field.
Desirable
- A-Level (or equivalent) mathematics or higher.
- Experience with CAD, GIS or technical modelling tools.
- Aviation knowledge or operational experience.
- Experience working with technical stakeholders or complex data.
Why join us?
- Work in a highly specialised and globally respected field.
- Structured development including formal training and on-the-job experience.
- Clear pathway to becoming a qualified Procedure Designer.
- Opportunity to contribute to work that directly impacts aviation safety and efficiency.
- Supportive, collaborative technical environment.
Ready to apply?
If you enjoy solving complex problems, working with precision, and developing specialist technical expertise, we’d love to hear from you.
Additional Vacancy Information
Please attach a cover letter when applying for the role, any applications without a cover letter will be sifted out. Multiple positions available. Please note that this role requires attendance at a formal 12-week training course, which may be delivered overseas. During the training period, you will also be expected to attend our Whiteley office regularly for on-site learning and development. Upon successful completion of the training programme and qualification requirements, employees may progress to a higher grade with an associated increase in salary, subject to meeting the relevant criteria.
We are proud to offer a fantastic total reward package to help you thrive both personally and professionally. We have adopted agile working to provide greater flexibility and increased choice over working arrangements, with the opportunity for this role to work in our modern office facilities as well as remotely. If you share our passion to advance aviation and keep the skies safe – we would like to hear from you whatever your age, sex, race, faith, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, visible or invisible disability. Individuals that bring different perspectives, skills, life experiences and backgrounds help us be at the forefront of our industry.
Procedure Design Trainee (PANS-OPS Instrument Flight Procedure Design) employer: NATS
NATS is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where safety and innovation are paramount. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we provide extensive training opportunities and encourage continuous improvement, ensuring our team members thrive in their roles. Located in Prestwick, you'll be part of a dedicated team that plays a crucial role in advancing aviation and maintaining the safety of our skies, all while enjoying a supportive culture that values diverse perspectives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procedure Design Trainee (PANS-OPS Instrument Flight Procedure Design)
✨Get Involved in Aerospace Communities
Dive into aerospace forums and communities like the Institute of Engineering and Technology. Get your name out there by engaging in discussions or attending events. This can really help us showcase our passion and dedication for the field!
✨Utilise University Career Services
If you're still studying, hit up your university's career centre. They often have connections with aerospace companies looking for trainees, and they can help us polish our interview skills or tidy up our application strategies before we jump into the field.
✨Show Off Your Projects
Create a portfolio showcasing any relevant projects or designs you've worked on, such as model aircraft or research papers. Sharing these on platforms like LinkedIn or even specialised aerospace forums can grab the attention of hiring managers at companies like NATS.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out the opportunities on our website! Applying directly for the trainee position at NATS gives us a better chance of standing out, plus you'll skip the middleman and get noticed by the right people. Let's do this!
We think you need these skills to ace Procedure Design Trainee (PANS-OPS Instrument Flight Procedure Design)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When crafting your CV, focus on highlighting any relevant technical skills specific to aerospace engineering. Make sure to mention any software tools you're proficient in, like CAD programs or simulation software, as these are super important in our field. Don't forget to include any projects or coursework that demonstrate your understanding of aerospace concepts!
Demonstrate Your Passion for Aviation:In your cover letter, let your enthusiasm for aerospace shine through! Talk about any experience you've had that fuels your interest—whether it's a personal project, a club at university, or even a visit to an airshow. We're looking for trainees who are as passionate about aviation as we are at NATS!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you've got any certifications related to aerospace or engineering, be sure to highlight them in your application. This could be anything from safety training to specific engineering courses related to aerodynamics or propulsion. They can really boost your credibility as a trainee in this specialised field!
Keep It Clear and Concise:As a trainee, your application should be straightforward and to the point. Avoid jargon and focus on what makes you an ideal fit for the role. Make it easy for us at NATS to see why you'd be an awesome addition to the team by keeping your writing clear and organised. Remember, we appreciate a good structure!
How to prepare for a job interview at NATS
✨Brush Up on Your Basics
As a trainee in aerospace engineering, make sure you nail down the fundamental concepts of aerodynamics and propulsion. You might get hit with technical questions that assess your knowledge of these areas, so revise your lecture notes and key textbooks to shine!
✨Show Off Your Projects
If you’ve worked on relevant projects, like model aircraft or CAD designs, don’t hold back! Prepare to discuss your hands-on experiences and how they relate to aerospace engineering. It’s a great way to show you’re not just book-smart but practical, too!
✨Get Familiar with Software Tools
Depending on the specifics of the position at NATS, you might be asked about software like MATLAB or CATIA. Brush up on these tools so you can confidently discuss your familiarity or any experience you’ve had using them in your coursework or personal projects.
✨Highlight Your Eagerness to Learn
As a trainee, your potential is what matters most! Be prepared to talk about what you’re hoping to learn during your time at NATS. This shows your motivation and willingness to grow, which is key for a role that’s all about taking the first steps in your career!
