Advanced Operations (Craft) Apprentice

the Apprenticeship; England; On-site; GBP 16,000 - 24,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace manufacturer in the UK is offering a four-year apprenticeship program at their East Cowes facility. The role will provide hands-on experience in manufacturing and engineering, with the opportunity to learn from experienced colleagues. Applicants should possess 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including Maths and English. The apprenticeship includes a competitive salary starting from £16,110 and offers a supportive team atmosphere where you can develop vital skills in aerospace production.

Benefits

Starting salary between £16,110 to £23,555

37-hour work week with a half-day finish on Fridays

190 hours of holiday (plus bank holidays)

Top-tier pension scheme

Life assurance and income protection

Skills

Willingness to Learn

Positive Attitude

Curiosity

Education

5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including Maths and English

Job description

About the Apprenticeship

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS : TUESDAY 10TH FEBRUARY 2026

Ready to Build Something Amazing

Our four‑year Apprenticeship Programme at our East Cowes facility is your chance to dive into the world of cutting‑edge manufacturing and engineering – no experience needed. You’ll learn by doing, get paid while you train and grow your skills alongside experienced colleagues who will support you all the way.

At GKN Aerospace in partnership with the Isle of Wight College, working in conjunction with the Level 3 Aerospace Engineering Technician Apprenticeship Standard, we will teach you the skills you need to succeed, combining classroom learning with hands‑on experience in real industry‑focused environments. With our expert support, your curiosity and a can‑do attitude, there’s no limit to what you can achieve.

Build Your Future in Aerospace!

In this hands‑on role you’ll be part of a team delivering the future of building parts, testing components and working with powerful tech and tools. Don’t worry – we’ll teach you how! You will gain real transferable skills that matter, from assembling complex aerospace components to turning complex ideas into reality. Your work helps aircraft take flight – it’s exciting, practical and open to everyone. If you enjoy problem solving, teamwork and making things happen, this is your launch pad to a powerful future.

About You

• 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 mindset 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 team 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.

To Join Us You’ll Need

5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including Maths and English.

Notes

• Functional Skills Level 2 in English & Maths are a suitable alternative to GCSE English & Maths at grade 4 or above.
• Other suitable Level 2 qualifications will be considered if you do not have 5 GCSEs.

If you’ve got the drive we’ll help you build the skills.

What’s in It for You

• Year 1 – Your first year is all about getting you ready to hit the ground running. You’ll build the core skills, knowledge and confidence you need to succeed in Years 2 & 3 with the right mix of learning support and hands‑on prep to make it happen.
• Years 2 & 3 – You’ll rotate through different final assembly areas of the business, gaining hands‑on experience and expanding your knowledge along the way. You’ll have regular check‑ins with our apprenticeship team to track your progress while continuing your college studies.
• Year 4 – In your final placement you’ll build specialist skills and complete your End‑Point Assessment, all leading to your apprenticeship qualification.

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 our apprenticeship team to stay on course and grow.

Perks You’ll Love!

• Starting salary between £16,110 to £23,555 (based on age‑related national minimum wage; salary increased annually on completion of agreed targets).
• A 37‑hour week with a half‑day finish on Fridays.
• 190 hours of holiday (plus bank holidays).
• A top‑tier pension scheme – we boost your savings for the future.
• Life assurance and income protection – because your wellbeing matters.
• Much, much more!

Key Skills

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• Desktop Support
• Data Entry Operation
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• Adobe Photoshop

Employment Type : Trainee

Experience : years

Vacancy : 1