Aerospace Production Operative Apprenticeship

Fantastic challenges. Amazing opportunities.

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, we’re inspired by the opportunities to innovate and break boundaries. We’re proud to play a part in protecting the world’s democracies. And we’re 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 world’s aircraft and engine manufacturers and achieved sales of £3.6bn in 2025. There are no limits to where you can take your career.

Job Summary

Location: Fully based in Filton, Bristol

Start date: 5th January 2027

This Foundation Apprenticeship is open to candidates aged 16–21. Applicants aged 22–24 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, you’ll develop hands-on experience working alongside skilled professionals at our manufacturing site in Filton, Bristol. In partnership with Weston College, you’ll work towards achieving both an Engineering and Manufacturing Foundation Apprenticeship and a Level 2 Engineering Operative Apprenticeship.

You’ll 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, you’ll 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! You’ll join a team that works on real aircraft parts, tests cool systems, and uses powerful tools and tech. Don’t worry—we’ll teach you everything you need to know.

You’ll pick up skills that really matter—like 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. You’ll kick things off with the Engineering and Manufacturing Foundation Apprenticeship, where you’ll build up the key skills, knowledge, and confidence you need. It’s the perfect mix of classroom learning, support, and real hands-on practice—so you’ll be learning, trying things out, and growing every step of the way.

Year 2 – Exploring and growing

In your second year, you’ll 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. You’ll be working on real projects, learning new skills, and figuring out what you enjoy most. Alongside this, you’ll be working towards your Level 2 Engineering Operative Apprenticeship. With regular mentor check-ins and ongoing college studies, you’ll be building up a portfolio of work that shows just how far you’ve come.

Year 3 – Specialising and achieving

Your final year is where everything comes together. You’ll settle into a final placement in the workplace, develop your specialist skills, and get ready for your end-point assessment. By the end, you’ll not only complete your apprenticeship—you’ll 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 don’t 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 you’re 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. You’re interested in the details and eager to find out more.

You’ll be part of a squad that’s got your back from day one – with awesome people ready to support you, guide you, and celebrate your wins. We’re all about creating a friendly, inclusive space where everyone can learn, grow, and smash their goals.

If you've got the drive, we’ll 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 – we’ll 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, you’re not just starting a job — you’re stepping into a future with real rewards. Here’s what you’ll get:

• A starting Salary of £14,591
• 4 day working week – Friday’s 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