2026 Project Planning and Controls Apprentice - Level 4 Project Management Associate in London
2026 Project Planning and Controls Apprentice - Level 4 Project Management Associate

2026 Project Planning and Controls Apprentice - Level 4 Project Management Associate in London

London Apprenticeship 800 - 980 ÂŁ / month (est.) Home office (partial)
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Assist in project planning, scheduling, and governance for innovative defence solutions.
  • Company: Join Thales, a leader in aerospace, defence, security, and space technology.
  • Benefits: Earn while you learn with competitive salary, health care, and generous leave.
  • Why this job: Kickstart your career with hands-on experience and recognised qualifications in project management.
  • Qualifications: Level 3 qualification and enthusiasm for project planning required.
  • Other info: Flexible working options and excellent career growth opportunities await you.

The predicted salary is between 800 - 980 ÂŁ per month.

Thales people architect solutions that are relied upon to deliver operational advantage at every decisive moment throughout the mission. Defence and armed forces customers rely on us to deliver the full range of defensive systems for land, sea, and air. From early warning to threat neutralisation, our platforms cover all levels from very short‐range systems to extended protection across the entire battle‐space including Airspace Mobility Solutions, Vehicles and Tactical Systems, Missile Defence, Optronics, and Radar.

Together we offer fantastic opportunities for committed employees to learn and develop their career with us. At Thales UK, we research, develop, and supply technology and services that impact the lives of millions of people each day to make life better and keep us safer. We innovate across the major industries of Aerospace, Defence, Security, and Space.

Your health and well‐being matters to us and that’s why we offer you the flexibility to do what’s important to you; whether that’s part‐time hours, job sharing, home working, or the ability to flex your start and finish times. Where possible, we support a working pattern that suits your lifestyle and helps you reach your ambitions.

Start date: 07 September 2026

Salary: ÂŁ24,000 per annum

Employee type: Permanent

Location: Belfast

Working schedule: Monday – Friday, 37 hours a week (8.25 hours Monday‐Thursday, 4 hours Friday)

Are you looking for an employer who will sponsor you through your qualifications, whilst providing valuable and exciting on‐the‐job experience within a global, innovative and industry‐leading organisation? If so, read on to see what Thales has on offer.

What The Role Has To Offer

  • Earn while you learn
  • Job specific training experience
  • Recognised qualifications
  • Permanent role from day one
  • Tuition fees for university or approved training providers are fully covered

This exciting apprenticeship will give you the skills and knowledge to be an effective Project Planning and Controls Apprentice within the Bid and Project Management Function at Thales. The apprentice programme will provide you with a strong understanding and working knowledge of planning, scheduling, monitoring, and controls, building the foundations for future roles supporting or managing projects that deliver world‐leading solutions to our global customer base.

The Bid and Project Management functions key responsibilities are to support the project team deliver the mission and ensure strong governance over bids and projects and oversee the implementation of consistent and assured processes.

Key Responsibilities

  • Assist with the creation and maintenance of the integrated master schedules for assigned projects
  • Contribute to project reports and attend associated reviews
  • Assist in the deployment & reporting of risk & opportunity management
  • Help the project team ensure correct and effective project governance is applied
  • Operate Thales UK tools to ensure effective management of the project schedule, budgets, risks, and opportunities
  • Commit to attend all elements of the apprenticeship including attendance on virtual training modules, 1‐2‐1 coaching calls, assignments, exams, and mandatory Thales UK training activities to lay the foundations for your contribution to future growth of the business

The Programme

Through our higher apprenticeship you’ll be making the most of your talents, getting to understand the Project Management Office from the ground up; and doing so with the help of one of the biggest and best names in the industry. This is a 2‐year programme, working towards the Level 4 Project Manager Associate Apprenticeship standard, with our training provider, The Apprentice Academy. The programme will be delivered via a virtual delivery model, with live virtual workshops and 1‐2‐1 coaching calls. Upon successful completion of your End Point Assessment, you will roll off into the Thales UK Bid and Project Management job family into a Project Planner or Project Controller role.

We’re Looking For

We are looking for enthusiastic individuals who are motivated, committed, and keen to learn. A self‐starter who is able to manage their time, show initiative, and has a genuine interest in project planning/controls and Thales. Successful candidates will show self‐discipline and an aspiration to achieve the qualification.

Entry Requirements

Level 3 qualification to demonstrate the ability to learn at this level. Suitable Level 3 qualifications might include A Levels (Grade C or above), Highers, T Level (Merit or above), BTEC Diploma (Merit or above). Level 3 STEM based qualification would be advantageous. GCSEs grade 9‐4 (A‐C) including English and Maths.

Benefits

  • 201 hours annual leave (plus a company day and bank holidays)
  • Company Pension
  • Health Care Cash Plan
  • Life Insurance
  • Discount Portal
  • Performance‐related pay uplifts
  • 80 Hours Volunteering (first two years)

Closing date: 11.59 pm on Thursday 12 February 2026. Please note, applications will close at that time. We will be in contact by the end of February 2026 with details of next steps. This role may close earlier than the advertised deadline if we receive a high number of applications.

Security Clearance Requirements

All successful candidates must possess the permanent right to work in the UK, and will be required to go through government security clearance at BPSS level and to obtain full Security Clearance (SC) in line with the United Kingdom Security Vetting (UKSV) requirements before starting with us. This role requires SC clearance. It would be advantageous if you already hold it; if not, you must achieve and maintain SC clearance prior to commencing employment.

Thales is an equal opportunities employer. Diversity and inclusion are integral to the success of Thales. We provide a barrier‐free recruitment process and reasonable adjustments for neuro‐diverse applicants or those with a disability or long‐term condition. To request an adjustment, or for assistance in an alternative format, contact Resourcing Ops for mid‐to‐senior roles, or the Early Careers Team for graduate and apprentice roles.

Great journeys start here – apply now!

2026 Project Planning and Controls Apprentice - Level 4 Project Management Associate in London employer: Portal Londrinatur

Thales UK is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee growth and well-being, offering a supportive work culture where apprentices can earn while they learn. With comprehensive training, fully covered tuition fees, and flexible working arrangements in the vibrant city of Belfast, employees are empowered to develop their skills in project management within a global leader in defence and technology. Join us to embark on a rewarding career path that not only enhances your professional capabilities but also contributes to making the world a safer place.
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Contact Detail:

Portal Londrinatur Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land 2026 Project Planning and Controls Apprentice - Level 4 Project Management Associate in London

✨Tip Number 1

Get to know the company! Research Thales and understand their projects, values, and culture. This will help you tailor your conversations and show genuine interest during interviews.

✨Tip Number 2

Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. Building relationships can give you insider info and even referrals that might just land you that apprenticeship.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to project management and controls. Think about how your skills align with what Thales is looking for, and be ready to share examples from your experiences.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Thales team and starting your career in project management.

We think you need these skills to ace 2026 Project Planning and Controls Apprentice - Level 4 Project Management Associate in London

Project Planning
Scheduling
Monitoring and Controls
Risk Management
Opportunity Management
Governance
Time Management
Initiative
Communication Skills
Attention to Detail
Self-Discipline
Motivation
Commitment to Learning
Team Collaboration

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Enthusiasm: Let your passion for project management shine through in your application. We want to see that you're genuinely excited about the role and eager to learn. A little enthusiasm can go a long way!

Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences that match the job description. We love seeing how you connect your background to what we do at Thales.

Be Clear and Concise: Keep your writing straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and fluff. Make it easy for us to see why you’re a great fit for the apprenticeship.

Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need there.

How to prepare for a job interview at Portal Londrinatur

✨Know Your Stuff

Before the interview, dive deep into Thales and its projects. Understand their role in defence and how project planning fits into their operations. This knowledge will help you answer questions confidently and show your genuine interest in the company.

✨Show Your Enthusiasm

Thales is looking for motivated individuals who are keen to learn. During the interview, express your passion for project management and your eagerness to grow within the company. Share examples of how you've taken initiative in the past.

✨Prepare for Scenario Questions

Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to manage projects. Think of scenarios where you've had to plan, monitor, or control a project. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers effectively.

✨Ask Insightful Questions

At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready about the apprenticeship programme or the team you'll be working with. This shows you're engaged and serious about the opportunity, plus it gives you a chance to learn more about what to expect.

2026 Project Planning and Controls Apprentice - Level 4 Project Management Associate in London
Portal Londrinatur
Location: London

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