Apprenticeship · Level 3
TL;DR
Key Takeaways
- 36-month Craft Surface Finish Fitter Apprenticeship at Airbus Broughton.
- Starting salary of £19,185 per year, with a competitive benefits package.
- Gain recognised qualifications including NVQ Level 2 and Level 3 diplomas in Engineering.
- Applications close on 15 December 2026, but may close earlier.
- Requires a minimum of 5 GCSEs, including Maths and English.
About the Role
Join Airbus as a Craft Surface Finish Apprentice in Broughton and play a vital role in manufacturing wings for our A320, A330, and A350 aircraft families. This 36-month program 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 Surface Finish Fitting apprentice, you will:
- Year One (at Rhyl College):
- Learn foundational skills in the preparation and application of surface finishes.
- Cover an element of mechanical fitting activities.
- Work towards:
- NVQ Level 2 diploma in Performing Engineering Operations
- Level 2 Academic Qualification
- Level 2 Essential Skills
- Year 2 and 3 (at Airbus Broughton site):
- Apply skills directly to live aircraft projects.
- Assist in the preparation and painting of wings for Single Aisle and Wide body aircraft families.
- Preparation & Setup: Meticulously clean, sand, and mask surfaces; accurately mix paints and prepare spray equipment.
- Application & Quality: Skillfully apply multiple, even coats of paint, monitor environmental conditions, inspect the finish for quality, make adjustments, perform touch-ups, and adhere to safety protocols.
- Fitting Activities: Perform fitting activities in wingbox production areas, including drilling and installing fasteners.
- Continue academic studies on day release, working towards:
- Level 3 NVQ Extended Diploma (Aeronautical Engineering)
- Level 3 Academic Certificate
Upon successful completion of the 38-month apprenticeship, you will become a skilled Surface finish Fitter, specialising in surface finishes and the assembly of metallic and composite components for the wing box structure. You will receive a Modern Apprenticeship Certificate.
Requirements
- A minimum of 5 GCSEs (Grade C or 4), including Maths, English Language, Double Award Science (Grade CC/ 44) OR Single award in Physics (C/4) plus 2 additional GCSEs (other equivalent or higher qualifications may be considered).
- A passion for learning, enjoy hands-on, teamwork and problem-solving activities.
- Include your CV stating your predicted or achieved grades.
- Include your Cover Letter stating your motivation for this role.
Important Information
- Grades: Any offer will be conditional upon receiving evidence of required grades by August 31, 2027, in addition to completing all pre-employment checks and online forms.
- Right to Work: Candidates must have current legal authorisation to work in the United Kingdom.
Application Process
Submit your CV (including predicted or achieved grades) and a compelling Cover Letter detailing your motivation for this role.