Space Manufacturing Engineering Higher Technical Apprenticeship

This is a 4-year Higher Technical Apprenticeship in Space Manufacturing Engineering.

About Airbus Defence & Space

Airbus Defence and Space in Portsmouth designs, builds, and tests satellites. They are a major player in the UK's space sector, creating advanced satellites for climate monitoring, global connectivity, and television broadcasting. The Portsmouth team focuses on building the satellite payloads, which are the core components. The satellites built can weigh up to 6 tonnes and are used for TV, internet, and secure communications globally, as well as supporting maritime satellite terminals.

What You Will Be Doing

As a Higher Technical Apprentice, you will develop both mechanical and electrical skills within a design and manufacturing environment.

What You Will Study

• You will study towards an HNC in Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, with the possibility of attaining an HND if eligible.
• You will also attain a Level 4 standard alongside the HNC course, gaining both academic knowledge and practical experience.

What You Will Do

• Understand how a satellite is built.
• Work on satellites in large space industry cleanrooms.
• Conduct vibration, shock, thermal, and EMC tests in the on-site Environmental test facilities.
• Support the design of payload integration.
• Assist manufacturing teams in assembling and testing electronic hardware.

Apprenticeship Structure

• Year 1: 40% studying at Havant and Southdowns College, 60% on-site in the Early Careers Centre.
• Years 2, 3 & 4: 20% studying at college, 80% on-site with placement rotations across different business areas.
• Year 4: Completing the End Point Assessment and securing a permanent role.

Post Apprenticeship Opportunities

• Over 95% of apprentices successfully complete the programme and move into permanent roles.
• Many senior leaders and managers started as apprentices.
• The business supports apprentices who wish to pursue further education.
• Opportunities for travel may arise due to Airbus's multinational nature.

Requirements

Eligibility

• A minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade C or above, including a Grade 5/6 (B) in Maths and English Language, or equivalent qualifications.

Demonstrable Skills

• A passion for engineering, evidenced through educational choices or hobbies (e.g., engineering clubs, fixing mechanical/electrical items).
• Submit your CV stating your grades (predicted or achieved).
• Submit a Cover Letter detailing your motivations, why you want to work in the space industry, and your passion and enthusiasm.

Application Boosters (Cover Letter)

• Why Airbus and this apprenticeship? Explain what excites you about Airbus, its values, the space sector, and how you see yourself growing.
• What skills and experience do you bring? Highlight practical experience from projects, hobbies, or academic subjects.

Important Information

• Grades: Offers are conditional on achieving required grades before the apprenticeship start date if predicted grades are submitted.
• Security Clearance: You will be subject to BPSS and potentially UK SC-level Security Clearance or Export Control.
• Right to Work: Candidates must have legal authorisation to work in the UK for the full duration of the programme.
• Levy Funding: Successful candidates must be eligible for levy funding.
• Visa Sponsorship: This apprenticeship does not meet the minimum requirements for visa sponsorship.

Benefits

• Salary: £22,000 per year
• 37 hours per week with half-day Fridays (subject to completing full hours)
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
• Pension
• Success share
• Flexible benefits