Aircraft Fitter Apprentice in Southampton

PETA Ltd are working with Hamble Aerostructures Limited (HAL) to recruit their fitters of the future. This exciting new partnership will give six apprentices the chance to experience a unique and bespoke training scheme. If you are looking for an apprenticeship that will combine your passion for aerospace with the chance to kick start your career, this opportunity could be ideal for you. The start date for the Hamble will be October 2026.

Hamble Aerostructures apprenticeships and our trainees are a vital part of our succession planning. We are offering opportunities to be part of a highly skilled workforce with many of our colleagues having had long and rewarding careers with the company.

What training will I be given?

As an Aircraft Fitter Apprentice, you will complete a Level 3 Engineering Fitter qualification. Overall duration 45 months. Our students will complete a comprehensive training programme covering a range of modules together with the opportunity to gain work experience within our manufacturing facility. The roles will be based at the Hamble Aerostructures facility in Hamble-le-Rice so apprentices must be able to travel to our site independently.

What roles could be available?

Due to the specialist nature of the processes at Hamble Aerostructures there may be roles available in the following areas including:

• Military Assembly (aerospace)
• Transparencies (aerospace)

Could this role be the ideal fit for me?

To be considered for one of our Engineering Apprentice vacancies, you will require the following skills and attributes:

• Have GCSE grade 4 or equivalents (or above) in maths and English
• Be PC Literate
• Have a “can do” mentality
• Be a good communicator
• Be aged 18+
• Have a full UK driving licence
• Eligible to obtain Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance

Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance is required and must be maintained for this role. Please note that in the event that BPSS clearance cannot be obtained, you may not be eligible for the role and/or any offer of employment may be withdrawn on grounds of national security.

Due to insurance requirements, applicants for this apprenticeship must be aged 18 or over at the time of starting the role.

Essential Responsibilities (all HAL employees)

This apprentice role will undertake a variety of activities focused on full assembly/build of aircraft components which also includes environmental sealing and limited testing of product. As part of the apprenticeship, you will learn:

• Basic hand skills within the HAL Skills Centre
• Read and follow work instructions, specifications and part drawings (accessed via PC)
• Read and interpret engineering data, technical drawings, specifications, repair schemes, Manufacturing Procedures (MPs) and other approved maintenance data
• Accurately complete work route cards to maintain component traceability
• Measuring and marking out of materials to carry out close tolerance hand fitting processes
• Application of assembly and strip down techniques of mechanical permanent fasteners which may include electrical bonding checks
• Progress towards working with increasing confidence and independence under the guidance and supervision of experienced colleagues

What do we expect from our apprentices?

• You are motivated to achieve
• You are organised in your work
• You can work independently but just as well within a team
• You are respectful of those who are teaching you whether at PETA or in the workplace
• You adhere to company policies and procedures

What are the career prospects at Hamble Aerostructures?

At Hamble Aerostructures, an apprenticeship is the start of a long-term career. On successful completion of your Level 3 apprenticeship, you will have the opportunity to become a skilled fitter within either our Transparencies or Military Assembly operations. As your experience grows, you will have the opportunity to develop your technical expertise by working on a wide range of products, including more complex and specialist builds. We value skilled craftspeople and support our employees to continue developing their knowledge and capabilities throughout their careers. Many of our employees choose to build long and successful careers with us. Our average length of service is 14 years, reflecting the rewarding work, supportive environment and opportunities to develop as a skilled engineering professional. In fact, our current Production Director began their career as an apprentice, demonstrating the long-term opportunities available at Hamble Aerostructures.

About Us

Hamble Aerostructures Limited is a leading supplier of major civil and military aircraft structures in hi-tech composites, metallic, acrylics and hybrid structures. Hamble has a long history in the aerospace industry, first established in 1937. Our capabilities enable us to assume full responsibility for the programs over the Product Life Cycle: From conceptual and detail design, testing & certification to serial production and in-service support.

What can you expect from us?

• 37 hour working week (6:00am to 14:15pm Monday - Thursday & 12:00 pm Friday)
• 26 days holiday
• Incremental salary reviews as your training progresses
• 4x salary life cover
• Pension Scheme
• On-Site Parking (first come first served)
• Cycle to Work Scheme

What Next?

If you are looking for an apprenticeship working in the aerospace sector, we want to hear from you. You need to be aged over 18, have a full UK driving licence and be eligible to obtain Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance.