At a Glance
- Tasks: Investigate and test materials for aerospace landing gear systems.
- Company: Join a global leader in aerospace, defence, and space with a diverse culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 25 days holiday, pension, and flexible benefits.
- Other info: Gain hands-on experience and complete a degree apprenticeship with the University of Derby.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission to decarbonise aerospace and innovate for a sustainable future.
- Qualifications: GCSEs and Level 3 qualifications in Maths and Science/Engineering required.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 £ per year.
A global presence: Be part of a global aerospace, defence & space business with over 100,000 colleagues, across 300 sites in 30 countries.
Inclusive & empowering environment: We celebrate our differences and believe they make us stronger. We know that a fulfilling work environment is a key driver for innovative ideas and team success.
Innovation at the core: Join our mission to decarbonise aerospace and make the world a safer place. Your ambitions can take us further.
Mobility & training opportunities: We can support your ambitions with training, development, a personalised career plan and mobility opportunities. If you have big dreams, we'll support you to make them a reality.
A culture of excellence: Join a team that values collaboration, integrity, and continuous improvement. Whatever your background, together we aim for excellence.
Get involved: We have a number of groups and forums across our sites that you can get involved with, including Women at Safran, Diversity at Safran, Sports Clubs, STEM ambassadors, Employee Forum, Charity Partnerships and Wellbeing Programs.
If you're ready to take your career to new heights and be part of a company that's crafting the future of flight, apply today.
At Safran, excellence is a journey - and we'd love you to be a part of it. As a trusted global leader in aerospace, defence, and space, we are proud to be a company where diversity, innovation, and opportunity come together to shape a sustainable future where we can all succeed together through a shared vision.
Looking after the people who make Safran great is our priority. We offer a range of flexible benefits designed to support you both in and out of work, including:
- Competitive salary
- 25 days' holiday + bank holidays (with buy/sell option)
- Pension (matched up to 8%) and life assurance
- Structured training, mentoring, and career development
- Onsite facilities including parking, restaurant, bike storage, and showers
- Family-friendly and inclusive workplace policies
About Safran Landing Systems: We are a global leader in aircraft landing and braking systems, supporting commercial, business, and military aviation. Our expertise spans the full product lifecycle - from design and manufacturing to maintenance and repair.
At Safran, we don't take flight for granted. It takes incredible skill, collaboration, and innovation - and that's where you come in.
Your Role: As part of the Materials & Processes Laboratory team, you will support engineering activities through investigation, testing, and technical analysis of materials used in landing gear systems.
Key responsibilities include:
- Investigating landing gear components that do not meet design requirements
- Supporting raw material and forging supply chains
- Conducting mechanical, chemical, and metallurgical testing
- Generating data and compiling technical reports
- Supporting production with manufacturing issue resolution
- Assisting with qualification of new processes
You will gain experience in:
- Materials science, chemistry, and analytical techniques
- Supplier engagement and technical issue resolution
- Mechanical testing and statistical data analysis
- Laboratory investigation techniques
- Process audits and continuous improvement activities
Training & Qualification: You will complete the Materials Science Technologist Degree Apprenticeship with the University of Derby.
What You'll Bring:
- Essential: GCSEs (Grade 9-5 / A*-C), including Maths, English, and Science
- Level 3 qualifications (e.g. A-Levels) including Maths and a Science/Engineering subject
- Strong attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and willingness to learn
- Desirable: Interest in engineering demonstrated through school, hobbies, or projects
- Understanding of materials science or engineering principles
- Experience working independently and in teams
- Strong communication and organisational skills
- Methodical and structured approach to work
Materials Engineer - Higher Apprenticeship in Cheltenham employer: Safran
At Safran, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. With a strong commitment to employee development through structured training and personalised career plans, our Gloucester location provides unique opportunities to engage in meaningful projects within the aerospace sector. Join us to be part of a team that values diversity and excellence while contributing to a sustainable future in aviation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Materials Engineer - Higher Apprenticeship in Cheltenham
✨Dive into Aerospace Community Events
Get involved with local aerospace engineering events and workshops. They're a great way for us to meet industry professionals and other apprentices. Plus, showing up gives us a leg up in the hiring game by understanding the latest trends and technologies!
✨Follow the Big Players
Keep a keen eye on companies like Safran for their apprenticeship opportunities. Many big firms announce openings through their social media or official websites, so it’s crucial that we stay connected to catch those early announcements!
✨Connect with University Career Services
Don’t forget to tap into your university’s career services. They often have exclusive connections with aerospace companies looking for apprentices. It's like having a backstage pass to opportunities tailored specifically for us!
✨Showcase Your Passion
Create a small portfolio showcasing any related projects, school work, or personal passion projects in aerospace engineering. This can impress potential employers like Safran and set us apart from other candidates. Let’s demonstrate our dedication right from the start!
We think you need these skills to ace Materials Engineer - Higher Apprenticeship in Cheltenham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In aerospace engineering, having a solid grasp of technical skills is vital. Make sure to highlight any relevant experience or coursework in your application. If you've worked on projects related to aerodynamics or propulsion systems, mention them prominently—it shows you’re not just about theory!
Passion for Problem-Solving:It’s all about having that knack for tackling challenges in aerospace. In your cover letter, don’t just state your interest; share a specific problem you've solved or a project you’ve worked on that required innovative thinking. This will set you apart and show your enthusiasm for the field.
Use Your CV to Detail Relevant Coursework:For an apprenticeship, your CV should list any coursework or projects related to aerospace engineering. Include detailed descriptions of projects, any programming languages you’ve learnt (like MATLAB), or software tools you’re comfortable with, as these can make you shine in the eyes of Safran.
Personal Connection to Aerospace:Don’t underestimate the power of a good personal story! In your cover letter, share what drew you to aerospace engineering and why you're excited about this apprenticeship with Safran. Whether it’s a childhood fascination with flight or a desire to work on sustainable aerospace solutions, let your passion show!
How to prepare for a job interview at Safran
✨Get Technical with Your Knowledge
Brush up on your aerospace engineering basics! We might get some technical questions or scenarios thrown at us, so knowing about aerodynamics, propulsion systems, and materials used in aircraft could really help us shine in the interview with Safran.
✨Showcase Your Passion for Aviation
As an apprentice, it's all about our motivation and eagerness to learn. Share projects or experiences, like model building, engineering clubs, or internships that show our passion for aerospace—this will impress Safran and show them we're ready to dive in.
✨Prepare for Practical Tests
Be ready for some hands-on assessments! In the aerospace industry, we might face practical tests that align with engineering principles. Familiarise ourselves with common tools and techniques used in the field before our interview with Safran.
✨Ask about Career Development
Got questions? Absolutely! We should ask about how Safran supports apprentices in their career paths. This shows our commitment and interest in long-term growth, which is a key factor in apprenticeships.
