Key Takeaways
- Apprenticeship as a Panels Manufacturing Technician at Airbus, starting September 2027.
- Gain hands-on experience in satellite panel assembly, mirror bonding, and treatments.
- Earn a competitive starting salary of £18,000 per year.
- Applications close on 30th January 2027.
About the Role
About the Apprenticeship
Start date: September 2027 Duration: 3 years Location: Stevenage
This is a Level 2 Engineering Operative apprenticeship with a focus on the materials and processing pathway.
What You Will Be Doing
Year 1: Study towards a Level 2 Engineering Operative ST0537 qualification, gaining academic knowledge and practical experience.
Year 2: Experience different Production Areas within the business to understand satellite manufacturing. This includes working in teams to manufacture Spacecraft Panels, Mirror Bonding, and Treatments using advanced production techniques.
Key Activities & Responsibilities:
- Panel Assembly: Using adhesives, hand measuring tools, installing panel features (potting inserts, riveting, edge taping), and following process and tolerances on 3DX.
- Final Assembly: Installing panel features (Ty-bases, MLI studs, connector brackets) using laser technology and heat pipe installation to extremely tight tolerances.
- Mirror Bonding: Using silicone adhesive to install SSM to panels and spacecraft features, and cutting mirrors with extreme accuracy.
- Treatments: Measuring surface finishes, applying aerospace-approved primers and paints, grit blasting, conversion coatings, and masking hardware for spraying.
During Year 2, you will also attend a week of Team Building Activities and Exercises at an Outward-Bound UK Site, participating in activities like Rock Climbing, Hiking, Abseiling, and Canoeing.
Year 3: Fully on-site, fine-tuning hand skills against the business skills matrix.
Requirements
- Funding Eligibility: Aged 16–21 and cannot hold a Level 2 or higher qualification in Engineering, Aerospace, or related technical fields.
- Education: A Grade 3 (or equivalent) in GCSE Maths and English is desirable.
- Skills & Attributes: Strong communication, reliability, excellent work ethic, a can-do attitude, and the ability to follow technical instructions and work well independently or in a team.
- Experience: No prior experience required; full on-the-job training will be provided.
Application Information
- Closing Date: 30th January 2027
- To Apply: Submit your CV and cover letter. The cover letter should explain why you are interested in Airbus, why you want a hands-on apprenticeship, and showcase any relevant hands-on experience or hobbies.
- Optional: You can attach photos, documents, or a short video showcasing a hands-on project.
- Security Clearance: You will be subject to a BPSS check and may need to gain UK SC-level Security Clearance or Export Control.
- Right to Work: Candidates must have current legal authorisation to work in the United Kingdom. This role does not offer visa sponsorship.