Propulsion Manufacturing Technician Level 2 Apprenticeship 2027

About the role

Propulsion Manufacturing Technician Craft Apprentice 🚀

Ready to launch your career in the cutting edge of space technology? 🌌 Airbus Defence & Space is looking for passionate and driven individuals to join our team as Propulsion Manufacturing Technician Craft Apprentices. If you're excited by innovation, love working with your hands, and want to be part of building the future of space exploration, this is your chance! ✨

What You'll Be Doing:

• Year 1: Building Your Foundation 📚
• Dive into a Level 2 Engineering Operative qualification (mechanical/electrical pathways), blending awesome academic learning with hands-on experience.
• Year 2: Inside the Satellite Factory! 🛰️
• Get an exclusive look at our Propulsion Production area. You'll learn how satellites are made from the ground up!
• Work in small, dynamic teams to manufacture spacecraft propulsion systems using the latest approved processes and advanced techniques.
• Gear up for an epic week of team-building adventures at an Outward Bound UK site! Conquer rock climbing, hiking, abseiling, canoeing, and more with apprentices from across Airbus. 🧗‍♀️🛶
• Year 3: Mastering Your Craft On-Site 🔧
• Sharpen your skills against our business skills matrix, becoming a true expert.

Your Key Responsibilities Will Include:

• Mechanical Assembly: Get hands-on with adhesives, bonding methods, precision measuring tools, and installing various components and brackets onto satellite structures. You'll even be bonding heater mats, thermocouples, and thermostats, all while following detailed technical drawings. 📐
• Orbital Welding: Master our state-of-the-art Orbital Welding Machines to create intricate propulsion systems. Learn to expertly bend, shape, and cut Titanium and Stainless-Steel pipework. 💨
• Electrical Work: Become a pro at electrical techniques like crimping, splicing, soldering, and forming harnesses. Install electrical components (latch valves, pressure transducers, thrusters) and wire up vital systems for heater mats, thermocouples, and thermostats. ⚡

Requirements:

• Eligibility: Aged 16–21* and must not hold a Level 2 or higher qualification in Engineering, Aerospace, or related technical fields. (Check Foundation Apprenticeships Criteria for full details!)
• Education: No strict entry requirements, but a Grade 3 (or equivalent) in GCSE Maths and English is a plus! 👍
• Skills & Attributes: You're a great communicator, reliable, have a rock-solid work ethic, a can-do attitude, and can follow instructions while working solo or as part of a team. No prior experience needed – we'll train you fully! 💯

Boost Your Application! 🌟

We want to know YOU! Tell us in your cover letter:

• Why Airbus? What ignites your passion for our work? Aircraft, innovation, global impact?
• Why a Hands-On Apprenticeship? What draws you to learning by doing?
• Showcase Your Skills: Include any DIY projects, building, fixing, tech projects, model building, baking, or cooking in your CV/cover letter. We'd love to see photos or videos of your creations! 📸

Important Info:

• This role is part of a projected Joint-Venture scope for a leading European space player.
• This is a government-funded Level 2 Apprenticeship.
• You'll undergo BPSS security checks and may require UK SC-level Security Clearance.
• Must have the right to work in the UK. 🇬🇧

Ready to Apply?

Don't miss out! Applications may close early, so apply now! 🚀

*Closing date for applications: 30th January 2027*

Key responsibilities

• Perform mechanical assembly of satellite components
• Utilise various adhesives and bonding methods
• Use hand measuring tools to meet tight tolerances
• Operate Orbital Welding Machines to weld propulsion systems
• Learn and apply various electrical techniques such as crimping, splicing, and soldering

Skills