Overview
Job Description:
Start date: September 2026
Location: Stevenage
Duration: 3 years
Application: We love your interest in joining Airbus! There is no limit on the number of positions you can apply for; however, you can only progress in the selection process for one position at a time. We recommend reviewing all available opportunities and applying to those that best match your experience and aspirations. Apply early to avoid missing out – adverts may close when sufficient applications are received.
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!
About Us
Airbus is Europe’s number one Defence and Space enterprise. Being a Panels Manufacturing Technician Craft Apprentice at Airbus means you will develop Mechanical skills within our programme in a stimulating Manufacturing environment. You will gain hands-on experience working on large, complex Satellite Panels that are built into a Satellite Structure and contribute to missions that explore our solar system, protect our planet, and provide vital communication services.
You will be part of a supportive team of experts who will mentor you as you build components that endure the harsh realities of space.
What you will be doing
Year 1: You will study towards a Level 2 Engineering Operative ST0537 on the materials and processing pathway, gaining both academic knowledge and practical experience.
Year 2: During the Apprenticeship you will experience different Production Areas to understand how a Satellite is manufactured at Airbus Defence & Space. This includes working in small teams or one-to-one to manufacture Spacecraft Panels, Mirror Bonding and Treatments using the latest processes and techniques for Satellite manufacture.
Your key activities & responsibilities will be:
* Panel Assembly
o Use of various different adhesives
o Use of hand measuring tools to meet tight tolerances
o Installation of various panel features (potting inserts, riveting, edge taping)
o Following process and tolerances to drawings on 3DX
* Final Assembly
o Installation of panel features including Ty-bases, MLI studs, connector brackets & cleats and brackets using laser technology
o Heat pipe installation to extremely tight tolerances as low as 0.15mm
* Mirror bonding
o Use of silicone adhesive to install SSM to various types of panels and spacecraft features
o Cutting mirrors with diamond tip pens to extreme accuracy
* Treatments
o Surface finish measurements such as friction and paint thickness
o Application of surface finishes including aerospace approved primers and paints
o Grit blasting
o Conversion coatings and protective finishes
o Masking of hardware in preparation for spraying
During Year 2 you will attend a Team Building activities week at one of the Outward-Bound UK sites, working in teams with Apprentices from various Airbus Defence & Space sites.
Year 3: You will be fully on-site, fine tuning your hand skills against the business skills matrix.
Requirements
* No strict entry requirements for college, although a Grade 3 in Maths and English would be desirable.
* Good communication skills, strong time keeping, a strong work ethic and a can-do attitude
* Ability to work within a team or individually
* Ability to follow technical instructions
* No prior experience is necessary; training will be provided.
Boost your application
Tell us in your cover letter why you want to join Airbus, why a hands-on apprenticeship appeals to you, and any hands-on activities or hobbies where you've used practical skills (e.g., DIY projects, building/fixing things, tinkering/tech projects, building models, baking or cooking, etc.). You may attach photos, documents or a short video showcasing a project you are proud of. This is optional but recommended.
Important Information
* GOVERNMENT FUNDING: This job is offered as a government funded Apprenticeship, subject to eligibility for Apprenticeship Levy Funding. Applicants must meet criteria and may be eligible for school or college leavers. We can assess eligibility during the process.
* SECURITY CLEARANCE: You will be subject to BPSS checks. UK SC-level Security Clearance or Export Control may be required depending on the role.
* RIGHT TO WORK IN THE UK: Candidates must have current legal authorisation to work in the UK for the full duration of the programme.
* Our apprenticeship roles do not meet the minimum UK Visas & Immigration sponsorship requirements for migrant workers.
* AI Guidance: Guidelines on the use of AI for recruitment at Airbus are available.
Contact and accessibility
Please let us know if you need adjustments to participate in the recruitment process. If you wish to discuss this further, please contact via email apprentices@ (information treated confidentially).
EEO Statement: Airbus Defence and Space Limited is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and do not discriminate on the basis of social or cultural background, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation or religious belief.
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