Engineering Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship in Farnborough

At QinetiQ we are creating a workplace that is inclusive; where our differences are not only embraced but make us stronger. A place where we can connect with each other and benefit from the experiences and thinking from people with varied backgrounds, and at different stages in their careers.

Role Purpose: The Engineering Maintenance Technician Apprentice plays a key role in supporting the operation and maintenance of a large-scale, pressurised wind tunnel facility in Farnborough. The apprentice will gain hands-on experience maintaining complex mechanical systems, including compressed air systems, rotating machinery, valves, and test equipment. They will also contribute to test readiness activities and live wind tunnel operations. This role is vital in ensuring the safe and reliable operation of the facility’s mechanical systems, contributing directly to wind tunnel performance.

The apprenticeship provides a structured development pathway aligned to the Level 3 Engineering Maintenance Technician (ST1426) standard, with a mechanical bias. The apprentice will attend college one day per week to complete a Level 3 City & Guilds Diploma in Engineering. The remainder of the week will involve practical, hands-on work within the wind tunnel facility and workshop environment, including machining, welding, assembly, fitting, cleaning, inspection, and testing, with full support and guidance provided throughout the programme.

Key Accountabilities:

• Attend and successfully complete all apprenticeship learning activities with the training provider.
• Apply apprenticeship learning in the workplace, working with supervisors to plan and complete suitable tasks.
• Work both independently and as part of a team.
• Carry out allocated tasks under supervision until competency is achieved.
• Contribute to continuous improvement activities by proposing solutions and improved ways of working.
• Ensure all work is carried out safely and in accordance with company procedures and standards.
• Maintain good housekeeping standards within the workshop and operational areas.
• Support maintenance, inspection, testing, and operational activities as required.

Key Capabilities/Knowledge:

• Curiosity and interest in how industrial and mechanical equipment operates.
• Logical thinking and a willingness to learn new skills.
• Determination and resilience when solving engineering problems.
• Ability to follow instructions, technical drawings, and schematics to achieve engineered outcomes.
• Basic computer literacy and willingness to learn engineering software.
• Good communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Good teamwork, organisational skills, and attention to detail.
• Positive attitude towards health and safety.

Entry Requirements: 4 x GCSEs at grade C/4 or higher including Math, English and Science.

How to apply: Please fill in the application and include both a CV and a covering letter.

Our Benefits: On demand learning, access to courses, modules, and lectures via multiple digital learning platforms, Coaching and Mentoring, 25 days annual holiday excluding bank holiday, Matched contribution pension scheme, with life assurance, Flexible Benefits package, Employee discount portal, Employee Assistance Programme, Employee-led networks.

Security: Many of our roles at QinetiQ are subject to national security vetting. Applicants who already hold the appropriate level of vetting may be able to transfer it upon appointment, subject to approval. Many roles are also subject to restrictions on access to information, which means factors such as nationality, previous nationalities held and the country in which you were born may impact your role. Please note that all applicants for this role must be eligible for SC clearance, as a minimum.

Recruitment Process: We want to make sure that our recruitment process is as inclusive as possible and we aspire to bring out the best in our candidates by creating an environment where everyone feels valued, heard and supported. If you have a disability or health condition that may affect your performance in certain assessment types, please speak to your recruiter about potential reasonable adjustments.

QinetiQ is a place where you’ll be able to make a real difference. You’ll be part of an inclusive culture that values diversity, rewards integrity and merit, and where you’ll be empowered to fulfil your potential. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds, come and be part of our team!

Closing date for new applicants: 22nd May 2026