Apprenticeship · Level 6 (Degree)
Closes in 4 days
TL;DR
Key Takeaways
- Undertake a 4-year Project Management Degree Apprenticeship (BSc Hons) at the University of Portsmouth.
- Earn £23,000 per year while gaining practical experience at Airbus Defence & Space in Portsmouth.
- Develop project management skills through placements, working on satellite design, build, and testing.
- Applications close on 26 October 2026; early submission is recommended.
About the Role
This is a 4-year full-time apprenticeship at Airbus Defence & Space in Portsmouth, in partnership with the University of Portsmouth.
About the Role
- Contribute to the delivery of major space projects, designing, building, and testing satellites.
- Work on advanced satellites for climate change monitoring, global connectivity, and broadcasting.
- Focus on the 'brains' of the satellite – the payload.
- Support maritime satellite terminals to keep ships and crews connected.
- Opportunities to work in Project Management Office (PMO), Project Management, Procurement, Planning, Scheduling, and other business functions.
What You Will Be Doing
- Develop skills across a range of project management competencies and skills through placements.
- Take responsibility for updating project plans and schedules.
- Ensure deliveries are on time, cost, and quality.
- Manage risks and issues.
- Provide regular reports to project stakeholders.
- Collaborate with multi-functional teams on internal projects.
- Manage supplier relationships and report on budgets.
- Engage in forward load planning, improvement and performance management.
- Support bids, tenders, and contract management.
- Work closely with mentors during university studies and on-the-job training.
What You Will Study
- You will study towards a BSc (Hons) in Project Management at the University of Portsmouth on a day-release basis.
Programme Structure
Years 1 & 2:
- 80% on-site with internal placements across business lines.
- 20% Day Release study at the University of Portsmouth.
Year 3:
- Specialise towards a permanent role.
- 80% on-site developing speciality competencies in the 'hiring department'.
- 20% Day Release study at the University of Portsmouth.
Year 4:
- Complete Degree (20% Day Release study until conclusion).
- Complete the End Point Assessment.
- Secure a permanent role within the business upon completion.
Requirements
To be eligible, you must have a minimum of:
- 104 UCAS points from 2 or 3 A-levels (BCC or above), including relevant subjects like Maths, Further Maths, Statistics, Physics, or Electronics.
- OR a BTEC Extended Diploma at DMM or above.
- OR a T-Level at Merit or above.
- AND GCSEs with a grade C/4 or above in Maths and English Language (or Functional Skills).
Successful candidates will also demonstrate:
- A strong interest in space & engineering.
- Ability to submit a CV stating grades (predicted or achieved).
- Ability to submit a Cover Letter highlighting passion and suitability.
Benefits
- Salary: £23,000 per year
- Hours: 37 hours per week with half days on Fridays (subject to completing full hours).
- Holiday: 25 days plus bank holidays.
- Pension
- Success share
- Flexible benefits
Important Information
- Start Date: 31st August 2027
- Location: Airbus Defence & Space, Portsmouth
- Security Clearance: BPSS check required; UK SC-level Security Clearance or Export Control may also be necessary.
- Right to Work: Must have current legal authorisation to work in the UK for the full duration.
- Levy Funding: Must be eligible for levy funding.
- Visa Sponsorship: Not available for this role.