Aerospace Production Operative Apprenticeship

Job description

Company description:

GKN Aerospace is reimagining air travel: going further, faster and greener! Fuelled by great people whose expertise and creativity sets the standards in our industry, were inspired by the opportunities to innovate and break boundaries. Were proud to play a part in protecting the worlds democracies. And were committed to putting sustainability at the centre of everything we do, opening up and protecting our planet. With over 16,000 employees across 32 manufacturing sites in 12 countries we serve over 90% of the worlds aircraft and engine manufacturers and achieved sales of £3.6bn in 2025. There are no limits to where you can take your career.

Job description:

Job Summary

Location: Fully based in Filton, Bristol

Start date: 5th January 2027

This Foundation Apprenticeship is open to candidates aged 1621. Applicants aged 2224 may also be eligible if they meet specific criteria (are a care leaver, are a prisoner or prison leaver, have an education, health and care (EHC) plan).

Unfortunately, applicants aged 25 or over are not eligible for this programme under current government rules.

Ready to build something amazing? Become an Aerospace Production Operative

Our three-year Aerospace Production Operative programme is your chance to dive into the world of Aerospace Manufacturing and Engineering no experience or qualifications needed.

Throughout the programme, youll develop hands-on experience working alongside skilled professionals at our manufacturing site in Filton, Bristol. In partnership with Weston College, youll work towards achieving both an Engineering and Manufacturing Foundation Apprenticeship and a Level 2 Engineering Operative Apprenticeship.

Youll learn by doing, earn while you train, and gain hands-on experience in industry-style environments, supported by experienced mentors every step of the way. With classroom learning, practical engineering skills, and your own drive and ambition, youll be ready to take the first step towards an exciting career in aerospace.

What You'll Be Doing

Kickstart Your Future in Aerospace!

Looking for a hands-on role where you get to build, create, and be part of something awesome? This is your chance! Youll join a team that works on real aircraft parts, tests cool systems, and uses powerful tools and tech. Dont worrywell teach you everything you need to know.

Youll pick up skills that really matterlike working with machines, managing your time, solving problems, and teaming up with others. And the best part? The work you do helps planes take off and fly!

This is exciting, practical, and open to everyone. If you like figuring things out, working with friends, and making things happen, this is the perfect launch pad for your future.

Programme Structure

Year 1 Building your foundations

Your first year is all about setting you up for success. Youll kick things off with the Engineering and Manufacturing Foundation Apprenticeship, where youll build up the key skills, knowledge, and confidence you need. Its the perfect mix of classroom learning, support, and real hands-on practiceso youll be learning, trying things out, and growing every step of the way.

Year 2 Exploring and growing

In your second year, youll get to try out different areas of the business from supporting manufacturing within our Integrated Machine Facility to gaining experience in Systems, Assembly and Treatments. Youll be working on real projects, learning new skills, and figuring out what you enjoy most. Alongside this, youll be working towards your Level 2 Engineering Operative Apprenticeship. With regular mentor check-ins and ongoing college studies, youll be building up a portfolio of work that shows just how far youve come.

Year 3 Specialising and achieving

Your final year is where everything comes together. Youll settle into a final placement in the workplace, develop your specialist skills, and get ready for your end-point assessment. By the end, youll not only complete your apprenticeshipyoull be set up with the skills and experience to launch your career.

What You'll Bring

• Willingness to Learn
  You're open to new ideas, ready to take on feedback, and always looking to grow. You dont need to know everything now just be ready to learn and improve every step of the way.
• Positive Attitude
  You bring energy, enthusiasm, and a can-do mind set to whatever youre working on. Even when things get challenging, you stay focused and keep pushing forward.
• Curiosity
  You like to ask questions, explore how things work, and understand the bigger picture. Youre interested in the details and eager to find out more.

Youll be part of a squad thats got your back from day one with awesome people ready to support you, guide you, and celebrate your wins. Were all about creating a friendly, inclusive space where everyone can learn, grow, and smash their goals.

If you've got the drive,well help you build the skills.

What We'll Offer

At GKN Aerospace, we commit to teaching and supporting you to:

• Work safely and accurately by following engineering instructions, health & safety regulations, and quality procedures well guide you every step of the way.
• Build strong technical, hands-on skills in a live production setting, learning how to contribute to high-performance aerospace manufacturing.
• Attend college or training sessions regularly, complete assignments on time, and apply what you learn in the workplace with our full support.
• Keep clear records of your work, track your development, and review progress regularly with your dedicated mentor, helping you stay on course and grow.

Perks You'll Love

When you join us, youre not just starting a job youre stepping into a future with real rewards. Heres what youll get:

• A starting Salary of £14,591
• 4 day working week Fridays off!
• 25 days of holiday (plus bank holidays!) to recharge and relax
• Discounts on your favourite shops and brands
• A top-tier pension scheme we boost your savings for the future
• Life assurance and income protection, because your wellbeing matters
• Access to a 24/7 support programme if you ever need to talk
• Virtual GP appointments for you and your close family

Your Journey Starts Here

Our application process is designed to be simple and supportive:

1. Apply Online Fill out our short form and answer a few quick questions.
2. Show Your Skills Complete a fun online assessment with interactive tasks that highlight your strengths and potential.
3. Meet Us in Person Join our Assessment Centre at our Global Technology Centre in Bristol in October, where youll get to show what you can do.
4. Kickstart Your Career Begin your Aerospace Engineering Operative Apprenticeship with us in January 2027.

Looking for a career thats going places?

Start your journey with a GKN Aerospace apprenticeship. Youll gain hands-on experience, earn while you learn, and work with the latest technology shaping the future of flight.

This isnt just training its the first step towards a career you can be proud of.

Apply now!

Extra information

Status

Open

Education Level

Secondary School

Location

Bristol

Type of Contract

Temporary full-time jobs

Published at

20-06-2026

Profession type

Engineering

Full UK/EU driving license preferred

No

Car Preferred

No

Must be eligible to work in the EU

No

Cover Letter Required

No

Languages

English