Apprenticeship · Level 2
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Craft Plant Apprenticeship - Machining

Airbus
£19,185
Broughton

Expected closing date: Tuesday, 15 December 2026

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TL;DR

Key Takeaways

  • Apprenticeship in Craft Machining at Airbus Broughton, leading to Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications.
  • Starting salary of £19,185 per year, with 35 hours per week.
  • Requires at least five GCSEs, including Maths, English Language, and Science/Physics.
  • Applications close on 15th December 2026.
  • The 36-month apprenticeship begins in September 2027.

About the Role

This 36-month Craft Machining Apprenticeship at Airbus Broughton offers valuable hands-on training, recognised qualifications, and a clear path to a rewarding career in aviation.

What You Will Be Doing

As a Craft Machining Apprentice, you will gain hands-on technical experience while completing academic studies. This program is designed to equip you with valuable qualifications and competencies to work directly on live aircraft.

Year One:

  • Based at Coleg Cambria, Bersham Road, Wrexham.
  • Working towards:
    • NVQ L2 diploma in Performing engineering operations
    • City & Guild 2850 Level 2 In Machining
    • Level 2 Essential Skills

Years 2 and 3:

  • Based at Airbus Broughton (North Wales).
  • Join the expert team of Machinists in the machine shop area, supporting the manufacture of wing skins, panels and stringers for various Airbus aircraft.
  • Tasks will include:
    • Carrying out a variety of different techniques including following bespoke set up sheet instructions to complete a machining process.
    • Utilising stringer machining and long bed milling machining practices.
    • Loading and locating billets, and unloading finished components.
  • Attending college on day release, working towards:
    • Level 3 Extended Diploma in Mechanical Manufacturing Engineering (Machining Bias Units)
    • City & Guild 2850 Level 3 Machining

Upon successful completion, you will become a skilled Machinist working within the Large Component Manufacture (LCM) team and receive a Modern Apprenticeship Certificate.

Requirements

To be eligible for this apprenticeship, you must:

  • Achieve a minimum of five GCSEs, including:
    • Grade C or 4 in Maths (GCSE certificate only - no equivalency accepted)
    • Grade C or 4 in English Language (GCSE certificate only - no equivalency accepted)
    • Grade CC or 44 in Double Award Science OR Grade C/4 in Single award in Physics.
    • Plus 2 other GCSEs at grade C or 4 (equivalent or higher qualifications may be considered, preferably in a practical or technical subject).
  • Attach your CV (stating predicted or achieved grades) and cover letter.

Application Boosters

Tell us in your cover letter:

  • Why Airbus?
  • Why a hands-on apprenticeship?
  • Show your hands-on experience (e.g., DIY projects, building/fixing things, model building, cooking).

Important Information

  • Grades: Offers are conditional upon receiving evidence of required grades 24 hours after receiving certificates, plus completion of pre-employment checks and online forms.
  • Security Clearance: Subject to BPSS check. May require UK SC-level Security Clearance or Export Control.
  • Right to Work: Candidates must have current legal authorisation to work in the UK. Visa sponsorship is not available for these roles.

Benefits

  • Competitive starting salary of £19,185
  • 35 hours per week (standard working day or double-day shift pattern)
  • 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
  • Pension
  • Success share
  • Plus many more flexible benefits!

Key Dates

  • Start Date: September 2027
  • Closing Date for Applications: 15th December 2026