Structures Manufacturing Technician Craft Apprenticeship; Level 2

Start date:

31st August 2027.

Location:

Stevenage. Duration: 3 years. College:
North Herts College (Stevenage). Closing date for applications: 10h December 2026.

Salary: A competitive starting salary of £18,000.

• 37 hours per week
• Up to 2 Flexi Days per month
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
• Pension
• Plus many more flexible benefits!

Employment Type:

Apprenticeship.

Airbus is Europe’s number one Defence and Space enterprise, so what better way to start your Craft Apprenticeship than with an industry leader. Being a Structures Manufacturing Technician Craft Apprentice at Airbus means you will get to develop both Mechanical and Electrical skills within our programme. You will be immersed in a stimulating Manufacturing environment. This apprenticeship offers a unique opportunity to launch your career in the fascinating world of space.

As a Structures Manufacturing Technician Apprentice, you'll be part of a team that builds cutting‑edge satellite structures. You'll gain hands‑on experience in a supportive and innovative environment, contributing to projects that push the boundaries of technology. This programme is perfect for those with a passion for both mechanical and electrical precision, a knack for problem‑solving, and a keen interest in seeing their work take flight.

Join us in shaping the future of space exploration!

Year 1:
You will study towards a Level 2 Engineering Operative ST0537 on the electrical pathway, gaining both academic knowledge and practical experience.

Year 2:
During the Apprenticeship you will have a unique opportunity to experience our Structures Production area of the business which will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of how a Satellite is manufactured at Airbus Defence & Space. This includes working in small teams or on a one-to-one basis to manufacture spacecraft using the latest approved processes and advanced production techniques for Satellite manufacture.

Your key activities & responsibilities will be:

• Mechanical Assembly
• Use of various different adhesives and bonding methods
• Use of hand measuring tools to meet tight tolerances
• Riveting (Fitting and Removal)
• Wire thread inserts (Fitting and Removal)
• Drilling and Reaming Torque Loading
• Following process and tolerances to drawings on 3DX Electrical
• Learn various Electrical Techniques such as Crimping, Splicing, Routing
• End to End Harness Installation
• Electrical testing and Harness fault finding

Year 3:
You will be fully on‑site, fine tuning your hand skills against the business skills matrix.

Funding Eligibility:
Applicants must be aged 16–21
* and cannot hold a Level 2 or higher qualification (e.g., NVQ, BTEC, HND, or Degree) in Engineering, Aerospace, or related technical fields.

Education:

No strict formal entry requirements, though a Grade 3 (or equivalent) in GCSE Maths and English is desirable.

Skills & Attributes:
Strong communication, reliability, excellent work ethic, a can‑do attitude, and the ability to follow technical instructions and work well independently or in a team. No prior experience required—full on‑the‑job training will be provided.

Joint‑Venture:
This Job Request will be allocated to the projected Joint‑Venture scope towards a leading European player in space.

GOVERNMENT FUNDING:
This role is delivered as a government‑funded Level 2 Apprenticeship. For more information about the eligibility criteria, please check the link:
Foundation apprenticeship

SECURITY CLEARANCE:
You will be subject to a BPSS (Baseline Personnel Security Standard) check. You may also need to gain UK SC-level Security Clearance or Export Control, depending on the role.

RIGHT TO WORK IN THE UK:
Candidates must have current legal authorisation to work in the…