Aerospace Engineering Degree Apprentice

GKN Aerospace; Bristol; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace company in Bristol is looking for an Aerospace Engineering Degree Apprentice to gain hands-on experience while earning a degree. The role involves rotations in specialist teams, contributing to real projects, and developing problem-solving and engineering skills. Perfect for those intrigued by engineering and eager to learn, starting September 2026.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Mentorship from experienced engineers

Pathway to a permanent role

Qualifications

• A genuine interest in engineering and innovation.
• Curiosity and proactivity to take ownership of work.

Responsibilities

• Rotate through specialist teams across various engineering disciplines.
• Learn to read and interpret engineering drawings and reports.

Skills

Problem-solving

Collaboration

Eagerness to learn

Education

96 UCAS points including two STEM subjects

Five GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above

Job description

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 33 manufacturing sites in 12 countries we serve over 90% of the world’s aircraft and engine manufacturers and achieved sales of £3.35 bn in 2023. There are no limits to where you can take your career.

What You’ll Be Doing

Join Us as an Aerospace Engineering Degree Apprentice. Location: Global Technology Centre, Bristol. Start Date: September 2026.

Are you curious, ambitious, and ready to take your first step into the world of aerospace engineering? This is your chance to earn a degree, gain hands‑on experience, and help shape the next generation of aerospace technology — all while getting paid.

• Rotate through specialist teams across Airframe, Design & Stress, Systems Integration, Quality, Support Engineering, and Advanced Manufacturing.
• Be involved in the full lifecycle of aerospace systems and products – from design and development, to testing, qualification, and in‑service support.
• Learn how to read and interpret engineering drawings, reports, and computer‑generated models.
• Collaborate with engineers from across multiple disciplines.
• Develop problem‑solving skills to design, test, validate, and improve engineering solutions.
• Spend your first year at Weston College working towards your Level 2 qualification, before moving on site in Bristol from Year 2, where you’ll progress through your Level 4 and Level 6 qualifications.
• Contribute to STEM outreach and community projects – because engineering isn’t just about technology, it’s about people too.

What You’ll Learn

• Aerospace systems, aeronautical sciences, and material sciences.
• Engineering processes and practices (mechanical, electrical, electronic systems).
• Analytical methods and engineering mathematics.
• Regulatory, environmental, and quality standards.
• Real‑world engineering skills such as planning, testing, inspection, production, and lifecycle management.
• The importance of sustainability, safety, and teamwork in real projects.

What You’ll Bring

You’ll typically need:

• 96 UCAS points (A‑Level or equivalent), ideally including two STEM subjects such as Maths, Physics, Computing, or Electronics.
• Five GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above, including Maths, English, and Double Science (or equivalent).
• Level 2 English and Maths qualification before the end of your apprenticeship, if you don’t already have it.
• EHCP applicants – minimum Entry Level 3 in English and Maths.

Who We’re Looking For

• A genuine interest in engineering, problem‑solving, and innovation.
• A collaborative mindset, with the ability to take ownership of your work.
• Curiosity, proactivity, and a strong eagerness to learn.
• Motivation to work towards becoming a professional Associate Engineer.

What We’ll Offer

• Earn while you learn – a competitive salary with no student debt.
• Gain a degree in Aerospace Engineering while working on live projects.
• Mentorship from experienced engineers and leaders.
• Access world‑class training and career opportunities.
• Make a real impact in shaping the future of sustainable aviation.
• Support with sourcing student accommodation in your first year if required.
• A pathway to a permanent role at the end of the programme.

What To Expect In The Selection Process

• Apply online with a simple form, including a few pre‑screening questions.
• Take part in an online assessment if you meet the criteria.
• Meet one of our friendly team members (yes, a real human!) for a virtual interview.
• Join us at our Assessment Centre at the Global Technology Centre in Bristol where you’ll get the chance to showcase your skills and potential.
• Begin your journey with us in September 2026.

Everyone is welcome to apply to GKN. We believe that we can only achieve our ambitions through a coming together of diverse minds who enjoy collaborating in an inspirational environment. Through our commitment to diversity, inclusion and belonging and by living our five powerful principles we’ve created a culture where everyone feels welcome to contribute. It’s a culture that won us ‘The Best Workplace Culture Award’. By embracing and celebrating what makes us unique we encourage everyone to bring their full self to work.

We’re also committed to providing an accessible recruitment process, so if you require reasonable adjustments at any stage during our recruitment process please get in touch and let us know.

We will offer you fantastic challenges and amazing opportunities. This is your chance to be part of an organisation that is at the cutting edge of our industry, committed to pushing the boundaries even further.