Key Takeaways
- Undertake a Level 3 Engineering Fitter Apprenticeship with Wigan and Leigh College.
- Earn £19,500 per year, plus a £3000 joining bonus, with annual pay reviews.
- Gain hands-on experience in various manufacturing and assembly roles at MBDA's Bolton site.
- Applications close on 22nd January 2027, with the apprenticeship starting in September 2027.
About the Role
This is a hands-on role where the majority of your work will be conducted on site at our Bolton facility. Our Bolton site operates shift patterns, and you may be expected to start as early as 7 am regularly to maximise time working with experienced team members. There is the opportunity for an early finish on a Friday, dependent on college attendance.
The Qualification
You will study for a Level 3 Engineering Fitter Apprenticeship, which aligns with IET EngTech professional recognition. The qualification is fully funded and starts in September 2027.
Learning Provider
Wigan and Leigh College.
Programme Structure
During your first year, you will complete initial training within the Manufacturing Operations Training Facility before moving into manufacturing placements while studying at Wigan and Leigh College. You can typically expect to attend college one day per week, though this may vary. The remainder of your working week will be spent on-site.
Your Work at MBDA
You will be part of the Manufacturing Team as an Operator. At MBDA, 'Manufacturing' encompasses the Assembly, Integration, and Test of all company products, which are delivered directly to customers such as the Army, Navy, or Airforce. The Operations community is integral to the build of our products, working with Engineers to meet customer commitments and maintain build integrity through specialist work.
You will gain experience in placements within the following teams:
- Printed Electrical Circuit Manufacturing
- Cable Manufacturing
- Missile Assembly including Actuators and Control and AIT
- Missile Integration including Platforms
- Missile Test
- Calibration & Maintenance
What We're Looking For
This opportunity is ideal for individuals with a keen interest in how things work and a desire to learn and build a career around practical skills. We are looking for those with a passion for hands-on work who want to contribute to product delivery. Further opportunities during your apprenticeship may lead to specialist roles, such as electro-mechanical dual skilling, and potentially team leadership.
Entry Requirements:
- GCSE Maths: Grade 5 minimum
- GCSE English Language: Grade 4 minimum
- Additional GCSEs: Three further GCSEs at Grade 4 minimum, including a Science or Technology subject.
If you are currently studying and predicted to meet these requirements by the start date, you are welcome to apply.
What We Can Offer You
- Fully funded qualification starting September 2027
- Paid travel expenses to and from your place of study
- Annual pay reviews
- Healthcare Cash Plan (support with medical, dental, optical, physio, and health & wellbeing costs)
- 25 days annual leave (plus holiday purchase) and up to 15 days flexi leave
- Study leave during exam periods
- A £3000 joining bonus
Security Clearance
- British Citizen or a Dual UK national with British citizenship.
- Restrictions and/or limitations relating to nationality and/or rights to work may apply.
- All successful candidates will need to undergo HMG Basic Personnel Security Standard checks (BPSS) after an offer is made.