At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a 3.5-year apprenticeship to become a skilled Test Technician in aerospace.
- Company: GE Aerospace, a global leader in the aviation industry.
- Benefits: Flexible benefits, pension, private medical cover, and 26 days holiday.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience while studying for a Level 4 Engineering qualification.
- Qualifications: 4 GCSEs including Maths and English, plus A-Levels or equivalent in Engineering.
- Other info: Engage in personal development and community activities with a supportive network.
Overview
Job Description Summary: As a Test Technician Apprentice (TTA) you will join our Cheltenham based Supply Chain on a 3.5-year rotational scheme that will train you to be a Test Technician, enabling you to understand the end-to-end manufacturing process, down to component level, from a test perspective. You will study a Level 4 Engineering Manufacturing Technician Apprenticeship – Electrical, completing an HNC/D qualification with Gloucestershire Engineering Training. Our apprenticeship focuses on personal, professional and academic development, and is an opportunity to begin a career as part of a global business within the aviation industry.
Role Profile: This apprenticeship is designed to train you to fault-find on products to component level, rotate through core business units, and specialize in your final year to refine technical competency and product knowledge.
Role Responsibilities
As a Test Technician Apprentice (TTA) you will:
- Join the Cheltenham based Supply Chain on a 3.5-year rotational scheme.
- Train to be a Test Technician, fault-finding on products down to component level.
- Study a Level 4 Engineering Manufacturing Technician Apprenticeship, completing an HNC/D with Gloucestershire Engineering Training (GET) at their Barnwood, Gloucester teaching facilities. Teaching is typically delivered via 1-day college release each week during term time.
- Be trained in using manual and automated test equipment, support quality and engineering investigations, and learn to read electronic, digital and analogue circuit diagrams, ensuring paperwork meets governance requirements.
- Rotate through core business units (PCB, Avionics, Military Power, Civil Power, Aftermarket) to gain broad understanding; in the final year, begin to specialize.
- Participate in personal development activities, including soft skills development, mentoring, and potential participation in employee networks (e.g., Women’s network, STEM, Pride Alliance, Diversity Equity and Inclusion).
- Receive support from the Cohort Coach, Apprentice Manager, Rotation Managers, mentors, and the wider apprentice network to meet course requirements and maximize the apprenticeship experience.
- Understand that roll-off opportunities after completion are not limited to a single area within Supply Chain.
- Contribute to community and team-building activities and engage in off-the-job learning when on site.
Yearly Structure and Qualifications
Overview of the scheme:
- Year 1 & 2: Studying with Gloucestershire Engineering Training at Barnwood Campus; on-site placements; development of foundational tasks and team relationships; mentoring by older apprentices; enrichment involvement.
- Year 1: 5 HNC modules.
- Year 2: 3 HNC modules and 3 HND modules.
- Year 3 onwards: Increased integration in the team; portfolio development for End Point Assessment (EPA); continue work toward final qualification.
- Year 3 onwards: 5 HND modules; portfolio work for EPA.
Qualifications/Requirements
Please ensure you have achieved, or are predicted to achieve, the minimum grades below as set by our academic provider. Failure to meet these grades could mean you are not eligible to join the programme.
Essential
- Achieved, or predicted, 4x GCSEs (or equivalent), including Maths and English at grades C/4 or above.
- Level 2 qualification equivalent to minimum of 4x GCSE, including Maths and English at grades C/4.
- 3x A-Levels (or equivalent), including Maths or Engineering, at grades C or above, or Level 3 qualification (BTEC, T-Level or equivalent) in Engineering/Manufacturing.
Please note, any offer of employment is conditional on successfully passing an entry exam, typically completed in advance of attending an assessment day.
GET sets this exam to ensure learners are at the right level of competence; GE Aerospace has no influence over content or marking of this exam.
Desired
- At least 1 STEM subject at Level 3.
- A motivated and enthusiastic team player.
- Interest in technology, electronics, and process improvement.
- Inquisitive and willing to try new things.
- Focus, organization, and a desire to learn.
- Creative and innovative problem solver.
- Keen to seek opportunities to learn and develop.
Recruitment Process
As part of the recruitment process, submit an initial CV application. Stages include a video interview, assessment centre and entry exam with the training provider. The recruitment team will keep you updated throughout the process. For adjustments to enable your best performance, please email Apprenticeship.Queries@ge.com.
Please only submit one application. If you submit multiple applications, we will progress the most suitable one. If in future you are deemed suitable for other opportunities, we will automatically consider you for these too.
Please note our applications close on Sunday 16 November; they may close earlier depending on volumes. Apply early to avoid disappointment. Applicants will be reviewed on a rolling basis; if successful at stage one, you will be invited to a video interview. All candidates will be contacted by 31 December 2025 to confirm progression to assessment centre, which is planned for January 2026.
Total Reward and Benefits
FlexChoice offers a flexible benefits plan with options to tailor benefits. Default in the benefit fund includes non-contributory Pension, Life Assurance, Group Income Protection, Private Medical Cover, and Holiday entitlement of 26 days with an option to buy/sell.
Security Clearance and Right to Work
Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance is required and maintained. If BPSS clearance cannot be obtained, you may be excluded from the role. Applications from candidates requiring sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered; however, sponsorship is not available for Early Careers opportunities. Further information is available on the UK Visas and Immigration website.
Additional Information
Relocation Provided: No
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GE Aerospace, Test Technician Apprenticeship, Cheltenham, 2026 intake employer: The Security Event
Contact Detail:
The Security Event Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land GE Aerospace, Test Technician Apprenticeship, Cheltenham, 2026 intake
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research GE Aerospace and their values. This will help you tailor your responses during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for your video interview by rehearsing common questions and recording yourself. This way, you can refine your answers and get comfortable speaking on camera.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current apprentices or employees at GE Aerospace on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips and might even give you a heads-up about what to expect during the recruitment process.
✨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 GE Aerospace family.
We think you need these skills to ace GE Aerospace, Test Technician Apprenticeship, Cheltenham, 2026 intake
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Test Technician Apprentice role. Highlight any relevant experience, skills, and qualifications that match what we're looking for in the job description.
Show Your Passion: In your application, let us know why you're excited about this apprenticeship. Share your interest in technology and engineering, and how you see yourself growing in the aviation industry.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read and find the key information about your background and skills.
Apply Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application! We review applications on a rolling basis, so applying early gives you a better chance of standing out. Head over to our website to get started!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Security Event
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the basics of test technician roles and the specific responsibilities outlined in the job description. Brush up on your knowledge of manual and automated test equipment, as well as reading circuit diagrams. This will show that you're genuinely interested and prepared.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
During the interview, let your passion for technology and engineering shine through. Talk about any relevant projects or experiences that sparked your interest in the field. Companies love to see candidates who are eager to learn and grow within their roles.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare a few thoughtful questions to ask at the end of your interview. Inquire about the training process, opportunities for personal development, or how the apprenticeship can lead to future roles within the company. This demonstrates your commitment and curiosity about the position.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Before the interview, practice common interview questions with a friend or family member. Focus on articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. The more comfortable you are speaking about your skills and experiences, the better you'll perform during the actual interview.