Test Technician Apprenticeship, Cheltenham 2027 intake

About GE Aerospace

GE Aerospace is advancing aviation technologies for today and tomorrow. Our work contributes to the production of advanced jet engines, components, and integrated systems that power commercial and military aircraft. We are a team that embraces drive, curiosity, and unique ideas and perspectives, sharing pride and purpose that affects the lives of millions around the world.

Our Cheltenham site, with over 1,700 employees, is one of the largest GE Aerospace sites outside the USA and a major contributor to the local economy. The Power Distribution & Controls (PD&C) site focuses on the design, development, and manufacture of state-of-the-art aircraft power distribution and avionics systems for the global aviation industry. Our customers include all major aerospace manufacturers.

We strive to be an employer of choice by offering internships, apprenticeships, mentoring, and staff development programmes that create a workplace where everyone can be themselves and achieve their full potential. Innovation, a commitment to engineering excellence, and leadership development place GE Aerospace as a pioneering force in building the future of flight.

Role Description

As a Test Technician Apprentice (TTA), you will join our Cheltenham-based Supply Chain on a 3.5-year rotational scheme. This programme will train you to be a Test Technician, enabling you to understand the end-to-end manufacturing process, down to component level, from a test perspective.

You will study a Level 4 Engineering Manufacturing Technician Apprenticeship - Electrical, completing an HNC/D qualification with Gloucestershire Engineering Training (GET) at their facilities in Barnwood, Gloucester. Teaching is typically delivered via a 1-day college release each week during term time.

Key Responsibilities:

• Fault-finding on products down to a component level.
• Training in the use of manual and automated test equipment.
• Supporting quality and engineering investigations.
• Reading and understanding electronic, digital, and analogue circuit diagrams.
• Raising work compliantly to ensure paperwork meets necessary governance.

Rotational Scheme:

Apprentices rotate through core business units, including:

• PCB
• Avionics
• Military Power
• Civil Power
• Aftermarket

Rotations aim to provide a broader understanding of different products and customers. In your final year, you will typically begin to specialize in one area to refine your technical competency and product knowledge.

Development and Support:

• Support for personal, professional, and academic development.
• Opportunities to build your network and develop soft skills.
• Additional time for ‘off the job learning’ on-site.
• Team building activities during non-teaching time.
• Access to mentors and employee-run networks (e.g., Women’s network, STEM, Pride Alliance, Diversity Equity and Inclusion).
• Support from your Cohort Coach, Apprentice Manager, Rotation Managers, mentors, and the wider apprentice network.

This apprenticeship, launched in 2023, is designed to train apprentices to become Test Technicians within our Manufacturing Supply Chain due to a long-term need for this talent and skill set. Our aspiration is to invest in the next generation of Test Technicians to develop the skills and competencies needed to support our growing business portfolio.

Longer-term career progression opportunities exist, with past apprentices progressing into roles such as Team Leader, Operations Manager, Manufacturing Engineer, and Senior Leadership positions.

Scheme Overview:

• Years 1 & 2: Study with Gloucestershire Engineering Training, focusing on HNC modules and on-site placements. You will begin foundational tasks, establish working relationships, and develop autonomy. Mentorship from older apprentices and participation in enrichment teams.
  • Year 1: 5 HNC modules
  • Year 2: 3 HNC modules, 3 HND modules
• Year 3 onwards: Become a more integrated team member with further responsibilities. College work focuses on creating your final portfolio for End Point Assessment (EPA). Begin planning your future career within GE.
  • 5 HND modules
  • Work on portfolio for EPA

Qualifications/Requirements

Essential:

Achieved, or predicted by the start of the apprenticeship:

• 4x GCSEs (or equivalent), including Maths and English at grades C/4 or above.
• Level 2 qualification equivalent to minimum of 4x GCSE, including Maths and English at grades C/4.
• 3x A-Levels (or equivalent), including Maths or Engineering, at grades C or above.
• Level 3 qualification (BTEC, T-Level or equivalent) in Engineering / Manufacturing.

Note: Any offer of employment is conditional on successfully passing an entry exam set by our academic provider.

Desired:

• At least 1x STEM subject selected at Level 3.
• Motivated and enthusiastic team player.
• Interest in technology, electronics, and process improvement.
• Inquisitive and willing to try new things.
• Focused, organised, and eager to learn.
• Creative and innovative problem solver.
• Keen to seek opportunities to learn and develop.

Recruitment Process

• Initial CV application.
• Video interview.
• Assessment delivered by our provider.
• Assessment centre.

Our recruitment team will provide updates at every stage. If you require any adjustments to the process, please email Apprenticeship.Queries@geaerospace.com.

Please submit only one application. Applications will close on Sunday 15th November, but may close earlier depending on application volumes. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Total Reward

Our flexible benefits plan, FlexChoice, offers freedom, choice, and flexibility. Default benefits for new joiners include:

• Non-contributory Pension
• Life Assurance
• Group income protection
• Private medical cover
• Holiday: Hourly equivalent of 26 days, with the option to buy or sell.

Security Clearance

Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance is required and must be maintained. Failure to obtain BPSS clearance may result in ineligibility for the role or withdrawal of an offer.

Right to Work

Sponsorship is not available for our Early Careers opportunities.