Overview
Job Description: Start date September 2026. Location: Stevenage. Duration: 3 years. Application: We love your interest in joining Airbus! There is no limit on the number of positions you can apply for; however, you can only progress in the selection process for one position at a time. Apply early to avoid missing out— adverts may close when we receive sufficient applications. Salary: A competitive starting salary of £18,000. 37 hours per week plus up to 2 flexi days per month, 25 days holiday plus bank holidays, pension, and other flexible benefits.
About Us
Airbus is Europe’s number one Defence and Space enterprise. This Propulsion Manufacturing Technician Craft Apprenticeship offers an opportunity to develop both Mechanical and Electrical skills within our programme. You will be immersed in a stimulating Manufacturing environment and will gain hands-on experience in a supportive and innovative setting, contributing to projects that push the boundaries of technology. This programme is ideal for those with a passion for mechanical and electrical precision, problem-solving, and an interest in space propulsion.
What you will be doing
Year 1: You will study towards a Level 2 Engineering Operative ST0537 on the mechanical/electrical pathways, gaining academic knowledge and practical experience.
Year 2: You will experience the Propulsion Production area to gain a comprehensive understanding of satellite manufacture, working in small teams or one-to-one to manufacture Spacecraft Propulsion systems using approved processes and advanced production techniques.
Your key activities and responsibilities will include:
- Mechanical Assembly: use of various adhesives and bonding methods; use of hand measuring tools to meet tight tolerances; installation of components to satellite structures; installation of connector brackets; bonding of heater mats, thermocouples and thermostats; following processes and tolerances to drawings on 3DX.
- Orbital Welding: operate orbital welding machines to weld propulsion system sub-assemblies; bend, shape and cut titanium and stainless-steel pipework.
- Electrical: learn techniques such as crimping, splicing, soldering and forming of harnesses; install electrical components such as latch valves, pressure transducers and thrusters; wire and route harnesses for heater mats, thermocouples and thermostats.
During Year 2, you will attend a week of Team Building Activities at a UK Outward Bound site, working in mixed groups on activities such as rock climbing, hiking and canoeing.
Year 3: You will be fully on-site, refining your hand skills against the business skills matrix.
Requirements
- No strict entry requirements for college, though a Grade 3 in Maths and English is desirable.
- Strong communication, good timekeeping, excellent work ethic and a can-do attitude.
- Ability to work both in a team and independently; ability to follow technical instructions.
- No prior experience in propulsion is necessary; we provide all training.
Boost your application
Tell us in your cover letter:
- Why Airbus? What excites you about our work.
- Why a hands-on apprenticeship? Why learn by doing?
- Show hands-on experience in your CV or cover letter: examples like DIY projects, building and fixing things, tinkering and tech projects, building models, baking or cooking, etc.
- Show us what you’ve built: attachments (photos, documents, videos) are welcome but not required.
Important Information
- GOVERNMENT FUNDING: This job is offered as a government funded Apprenticeship, subject to eligibility for Apprenticeship Levy Funding. Benefits and criteria apply. Applicants not holding a qualification at the same or higher level may be eligible.
- SECURITY CLEARANCE: You may be subject to BPSS checks and may need UK SC-level Security Clearance or Export Control depending on the role.
- RIGHT TO WORK IN THE UK: Candidates must have current legal authorisation to work in the UK for the full duration of the programme.
- AI Guidance: Guidance on the use of AI for recruitment is available from Airbus.
Contact
Please contact us if you need adjustments to participate in the recruitment process. If you wish to discuss this further, please email apprentices@ (information treated confidentially).
Company
AIRBUS Defence and Space Limited
Employment Type: Apprenticeship
Experience Level: Student
Job Family: Support to Management
By submitting your CV or application you consent to Airbus using and storing information about you for monitoring purposes relating to your application or future employment. Airbus is committed to equality and inclusion and welcomes applicants irrespective of background. Airbus will never ask for monetary exchange in recruitment. Any impersonation should be reported to emsom@.
