At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us to develop electronic components for aerospace, tackling real-world engineering challenges.
- Company: Ontic, a leader in aerospace engineering with a culture of innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, volunteering time, and an annual bonus scheme.
- Other info: Structured development pathway leading to a permanent role in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in aerospace engineering with hands-on experience and growth opportunities.
- Qualifications: Degree in Electronics or related field; passion for electronic components and problem-solving.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 38000 £ per year.
Ontic, a leading licensor and manufacturer of complex engineering parts for the global aerospace and defence industries, is now recruiting for its 2026 Graduate Scheme – Electronic Component Engineering Pathway.
Our Culture and Values
At Ontic, we’re experts in what we do. Guided by our core values, we’re a team of driven individuals committed to continuous innovation in the aerospace sector. Together, we embrace the challenge to push our mission forward — becoming more than the sum of our parts. We’re a global family of specialists. We take pride in what we do and who we do it with, always striving for the best solution. We challenge the status quo, giving each other the freedom to experiment, innovate, and make a difference. Even when things get tough, we work together to deliver on our vision. Ontic is built on a culture of trust and excellence — for each other and the work we do.
The Opportunity
We are offering an exciting opportunity for an Electronic Component Engineering Graduate to join us on a permanent contract. This is a structured development pathway, designed to train and develop you into a fully capable Component Engineer within an aerospace engineering environment. This is not a general engineering or rotational programme. From day one, you will begin developing the technical knowledge required to support the selection, approval and lifecycle management of electronic and electromechanical components used within critical aerospace products. Throughout the programme, you will build both technical and commercial understanding, with the expectation that you will progress into a permanent Electronic Component Engineering role at the end of the programme.
Our Programme
This pathway will give you the opportunity to work at the intersection of engineering, supply chain, and product lifecycle management - ensuring that critical aerospace components remain available, compliant, and fit for purpose. Over the course of the programme, you will gain experience in:
- Electronic component compatibility analysis and identification of approved alternatives.
- Electronic component obsolescence management and mitigation strategies.
- Supporting supplier technical queries and component investigations.
- Maintaining engineering component data within ERP and component management systems.
- Supporting New Product Introduction (NPI) activities.
- Preparing technical documentation and engineering recommendations.
- Supporting Engineering teams with electronic component selection and replacement strategies.
You’ll take responsibility early, working on real business-critical challenges that directly impact product availability, cost, and risk. You’ll be supported through on-the-job learning, mentoring, and structured development. By the end of the programme, you will have developed the capability to operate as an Electronic Component Engineer within Ontic.
Who We’re Looking For
To succeed in this role, you’ll need:
- A degree (or predicted degree) of at least a 2:1 in Electronics Engineering, Electrical & Electronic Engineering, Electronic Systems Engineering or a closely related discipline.
We are looking for individuals who:
- Have a genuine interest in Electronic Component Engineering as a long-term career.
- Have an interest in electronic and electromechanical components and their application within complex engineering systems.
- Are naturally curious and motivated to develop deep technical knowledge.
- Enjoy analytical problem-solving and identifying practical technical solutions.
- Take a proactive approach to solving problems and are comfortable working through technical challenges where there isn't always a straightforward answer.
- Have strong attention to detail and enjoy working with technical data and engineering systems.
- Are collaborative and able to build relationships across engineering, supply chain and manufacturing teams.
- Are keen to continuously learn and develop within a specialist engineering discipline.
This role will suit candidates who enjoy technical investigation, lifecycle management and problem-solving, and who are motivated to develop into a specialist electronic component engineer within a regulated aerospace environment.
Start Date
September 2026
Sponsorship
Candidates wishing to apply for this role who would require sponsorship should carefully consider the likelihood of obtaining a Certificate of Sponsorship based on their individual circumstances. Ontic is unable to provide sponsorship as we do not guarantee that this role will meet sponsorship requirements.
Benefits
Alongside a competitive graduate salary, we offer a range of benefits to support your financial, physical, and mental wellbeing, including:
- Up to 29 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
- 10 hours paid volunteering time.
- Annual bonus scheme.
- 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).
- Retail discounts and offers.
Why Choose Ontic?
At Ontic, you won’t just start a job — you’ll build a career in a specialist engineering discipline that sits at the heart of aerospace product sustainability. You’ll be part of a business where:
- Your work directly impacts product availability and long-term programme success.
- You develop both technical and commercial understanding.
- You gain exposure across engineering, supply chain, and operations.
- You can build a long-term career with clear progression opportunities.
We are a fast-paced business with ambitious growth plans; so if you are dedicated, enthusiastic and always seeking ways to improve, you'll enjoy a career with us!
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Electronic Component Engineering Graduate (Aerospace) in Cheltenham
✨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 Ontic.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out the opportunities on our website! Applying directly for the trainee position at Ontic 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 Electronic Component Engineering Graduate (Aerospace) in Cheltenham
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 Ontic!
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 Ontic 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 Ontic
✨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 Ontic, 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 Ontic. 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!
