Airbus - AGGP2026 Graduate Project Manager

ZipRecruiter; Portsmouth; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace organization in Portsmouth is seeking university graduates for a structured graduate programme. The role involves project management within a dynamic team, focusing on developing skills for future leadership. Applicants should have a degree in Engineering or Business and must demonstrate strong communication and collaboration skills. This is a permanent, entry-level position with a commitment to career development.

Benefits

Career acceleration through structured development

Inclusive working environment

Flexible working arrangements

Qualifications

• A degree level or equivalent within Engineering or Business.
• Demonstrable experience in project management in either education or professional environments.
• Strong verbal and written communication in English.

Responsibilities

• Provide an active role in the development of all project deliverables.
• Ensure quality and timely submission of all project deliverables.
• Communicate with sponsors and all relevant stakeholders.

Skills

Project management experience

Strong verbal and written communication in English

Collaborative teamwork

Education

Degree in Engineering or Business

Job description

Overview

Job Description: Start date: September 2026. Are you a university graduate with the aspiration, enthusiasm, and talent to help us pioneer sustainable aerospace for a safe and united world? Airbus seeks bright minds from around the globe to fill critical roles that will shape our future. When you begin your career with us, we accelerate your growth through the Airbus Global Graduate development journey. This two-year experience is personalized to cultivate your professional skills, enhance business acumen, and hone technical abilities, with a strong emphasis on developing leadership potential from day one. You will gain a unique perspective on Airbus while contributing directly in a specific, impactful position. Beyond daily responsibilities and training, you’ll join a global graduate community annually for a dedicated development week to connect with peers and learn from leaders. Throughout the programme, you will be developed into an established and valuable team member from day 1.

What you will be doing

Airbus Defence and Space - Space Digital UK/US is a world leader in secure satellite communications and ground infrastructure networks, providing governments, militaries and international agencies with mission-critical voice and high-speed data communications on land, at sea and in the air. The project management team leads and manages the delivery of these projects.

• Provide an active role and use critical judgment in the development of all project deliverables.
• Ensure quality and timely submission of all project deliverables and documentation as assigned by the PM.
• Proactively communicate with sponsors, the team, and all other relevant stakeholders for each assigned project as directed by the PM.
• Support to ensure compliance with all contractual commitments defined in contracts with vendors.
• Manage work packages as allocated by the Head of PMO.

You will also work closely with the Project Manager to ensure:

• A smooth transition of awarded projects from Business Development and Sales to the project delivery team.
• Project requirements, standards, and documentation are followed.
• Projects are in scope, on schedule, and within budget.
• Deliver reporting on the project status and health.
• Identifying, managing, and resolving project risks and issues.
• Monitoring quality assurance and change control processes.

Your development pathway includes a minimum of one rotational placement to support your growth into the position of Project Manager and you will learn from mentors and the Project Management Office during the programme.

What we are looking for

• A degree level or equivalent within Engineering or Business.
• Demonstrable experience in project management (in either education or professional environments).
• Strong verbal and written communication in English.
• A desire to work in a collaborative team environment focused on driving future innovation.
• The ability to be self-aware and a wish to be in the driving seat of your development.
• Statement: This position requires a security clearance or will require being eligible for clearance by the recognised authorities.
• Please note, we love your interest in working for Airbus but we do ask that you make only one application to the Airbus Global Graduate Programme.

Recruitment process

Online application → Online Task Based Assessment → Application Review (Talent Acquisition Partner & Manager) → Virtual Assessment Centre → Offer.

Additional information

NB: Applications will close 30 September (don’t delay, apply today as some roles may close early due to applications received). Please let us know if you need us to make any adjustments. Examples of this may include accessible facilities; additional time for written exercises, etc.

Any information disclosed will be treated in the strictest confidence. This job requires awareness of potential compliance risks and a commitment to act with integrity, as the foundation for the company’s success, reputation and sustainable growth. Company: AIRBUS Defence and Space Limited. Employment Type: Permanent. Experience Level: Entry Level. Job Family: Programme & Project Management. By submitting your CV or application you are consenting to Airbus using and storing information about you for monitoring purposes relating to your application or future employment. Airbus is committed to achieving workforce diversity and creating an inclusive working environment.

We welcome all applications irrespective of social and cultural background, or belief. Airbus is committed to equal opportunities for all. We will never ask for any type of monetary exchange in the frame of a recruitment process. Any impersonation of Airbus to request such information should be reported to [e-mail]. We support flexible working arrangements where possible to stimulate innovative thinking.