Key Takeaways
- Undertake a 4-year and 3-month Craft Apprenticeship in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering at Airbus Filton, Bristol.
- Gain a Level 3 qualification in Aerospace Manufacturing Fitter with Weston College.
- Start with a competitive salary of £19,185 per year, working 35 hours per week.
- Applications close on 15th November 2026.
About the Role
Airbus is seeking Craft Mechanical and Electrical Apprentices to join the Filton Plant in the wing build production environment. The Filton Plant is responsible for the complete wing assembly and equipping of the A400M, and also completes the Equipped Gear Beam assembly for the A350 aircraft.
This apprenticeship offers the opportunity to gain qualifications with no fees, acquire new skills through vocational training, and receive a regular salary. Upon completion, you will become a Skilled Mechanical and Electrical Fitter with a Level 3 Diploma in Aerospace Manufacturing and Aviation knowledge, serving as your first step towards becoming an Aircraft Fitter (Electrical & Mechanical).
What You Will Be Doing
- Year 1: Spend Semester 1 (September to January) full-time studying at Weston College. In Semester 2 (February to June), you will attend college on other days and spend 2 days per week onsite at Airbus Filton.
- Years 2 and 3: You will be based on-site at Airbus Filton, rotating around operational areas to develop skills. You will have one day release with Weston College during this time.
- Year 4: Apprentices will be based in their place of work on a full-time basis.
When working on-site, you will follow a shift pattern from 06:30 am to 3:45 pm (subject to change). You will work within Operational Teams, assembling components and sub-assemblies for the A400M Wing, and work on manufacturing and engineering instructions and drawings.
Skills You Will Learn
- Drilling, reaming and countersinking
- Use of automated drilling equipment
- Fastening & sealing
- Sub and major assembly of aircraft components
- Fuel, Hydraulic, Pneumatic & Electrical installation
- System function testing
Note: You need to be comfortable with working at height and in confined spaces when required. A colour blindness test may also be required.
Requirements
To be eligible for this apprenticeship, you must:
- Achieve a minimum of five GCSEs, including:
- Grade C or 4 in Maths (B or 5 preferred)
- Grade C or 4 in English
- Plus 3 other GCSEs at grade C or 4.
- Equivalent or higher qualifications may be considered as an alternative to the additional 3 GCSEs (subject to validation).
Application Process:
- Attach your CV (stating predicted or achieved grades) and cover letter.
- Your cover letter should explain your motivation for the role and industry, detailing:
- Why Airbus?
- Why a hands-on apprenticeship?
- Any hands-on experience or hobbies (e.g., DIY, building, cooking, tech projects).
Important Information
- Grades: Any offer is conditional upon receiving evidence of your required grades 24 hours after receiving your certificates on results day, and completing all pre-employment checks and online forms.
- Security Clearance: You will be subject to a BPSS check. UK SC-level Security Clearance or Export Control may also be required.
- Right to Work: Candidates must have current legal authorisation to work in the UK. Airbus apprenticeship roles do not meet the minimum requirements for UK visa sponsorship.
Key Dates
- Start Date: September 2027
- Application Closing Date: 15th November 2026
Benefits
- Competitive starting salary of £19,185
- 35 hours per week (half day Fridays)
- 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
- Pension
- Success share
- Flexible benefits