Who are NATS?
NATS is the UK’s leading Air Navigation Service Provider (ANSP). Every year, we handle around 2.5 million flights and over 300 million passengers travelling in UK airspace. We provide air traffic management (ATM) services to 15 airports in the UK, as well as services to customers across Europe, the Middle East, Asia and North America.
We’re shaping the future of ATM through our purpose of ‘advancing aviation and keeping the skies safe’. We believe the size and diversity of our business make NATS an exciting choice for an exciting choice for graduates and those approaching graduation, as they consider their future careers.
What will the Solution Architecture Graduate Scheme involve?
Have you ever wondered how technology, people and complex systems work together to keep aircraft moving safely through UK airspace?
As a Graduate Solution Architect at NATS, you will help explore how our systems and services need to evolve for the future. You will work on real strategic challenges, helping turn ambitious ideas into solutions that are safe, practical and deliverable.
You do not need previous architecture experience. We are looking for curious people who enjoy solving problems, understanding how things connect and explaining complex ideas clearly.
What is solution architecture?
Strategy defines what an organisation wants to achieve. Solution architecture helps work out how it can realistically be delivered. It means looking at the bigger picture, including how systems, services and teams work together, understanding dependencies, risks and constraints, and considering the choices and trade-offs needed before investing in change.
The role is not focused on detailed design or coding. It is about using structured thinking and sound judgement to help the organisation make informed decisions.
With support from experienced architects, engineers and operational specialists, you will:
• explore strategic ideas and help develop high-level solution options
• understand how technology, operations, people and services interact
• identify key dependencies, constraints and risks
• contribute to technical strategies, architectural models and roadmaps
• take part in workshops and architecture governance
• turn complex technical information into clear insights
• consider safety, resilience, regulation and operational impact
• work with stakeholders from across NATS.
As your confidence and experience grow, you will have opportunities to take greater ownership of architecture work, supported by your manager and the wider team.
Why choose NATS?
You’ll be working at the heart of our organisation alongside other apprentices, graduates and experienced professionals. You’ll gain valuable insight into our business while making a tangible contribution to our success.
Your graduate scheme experience will give you the opportunity to build skills in systems thinking, solution architecture, risk and dependency analysis, technical strategy, roadmapping and architectural modelling.
You’ll learn from experienced architects and operational specialists, gain exposure to real strategic decisions and develop your ability to communicate with both technical and non-technical audiences.
You may also have opportunities to work towards relevant professional qualifications and learn established architecture, modelling and service management approaches.
On successful completion of the graduate scheme, there may be an opportunity to progress into an Associate Solution Architect role or continue your career within the wider Strategic Planning team.
Why choose NATS?
You’ll be working at the heart of our organisation alongside other apprentices, graduates and experienced professionals. You’ll gain valuable insight into our business while making a tangible contribution to our success.
Your graduate scheme experience will give you the opportunity to build skills in systems thinking, solution architecture, risk and dependency analysis, technical strategy, roadmapping and architectural modelling.
You’ll learn from experienced architects and operational specialists, gain exposure to real strategic decisions and develop your ability to communicate with both technical and non-technical audiences.
You may also have opportunities to work towards relevant professional qualifications and learn established architecture, modelling and service management approaches.
On successful completion of the graduate scheme, there may be an opportunity to progress into an Associate Solution Architect role or continue your career within the wider Strategic Planning team.
Additional vacancy information
Assessment centres will be held between 30 November and 11 December 2026.
The start date for the scheme is 6 September 2027.
NATS reserves the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications. If you are interested, we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible.
What’s in it for you?
• Competitive salary – £31,000 per annum
• 28 days of holiday entitlement plus Bank Holidays
• Market-leading defined contribution pension scheme
Towards the end of your scheme, you will complete an End of Scheme Board to assess your growth and development across the programme. Subject to successful completion of the scheme, individual performance and business requirements, there may be an opportunity for you to transition into a substantive role within your chosen area.
For more information on the benefits we offer, please visit NATS Early Careers
Diversity and inclusion at NATS
We celebrate the diversity of our colleagues. We thrive because we are all brilliantly different, yet united by our passion for advancing aviation and keeping the skies safe.
If you share our passion for advancing aviation and keeping the skies safe, we would like to hear from you, regardless of your age, sex, race, faith, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or visible or invisible disability. Individuals who bring different perspectives, skills, life experiences and backgrounds help us remain at the forefront of our industry.
We want you to be able to perform at your best, so please email earlycareers@nats.co.uk if you would like to discuss any reasonable adjustments.
Solution Architect Graduate Scheme employer: NATS
NATS is an exceptional employer for aspiring Air Traffic Controllers, offering industry-leading training and a supportive work culture that values diversity and teamwork. With a starting salary of £34,261 and opportunities for significant salary growth post-training, employees can build a rewarding long-term career while contributing to the safety and efficiency of air travel across the UK. Our commitment to employee development and a welcoming environment makes NATS a fantastic place to start your aviation journey.
