Aircraft Maintenance Apprentice (Lakenheath/Wattisham)

Boeing; Great Bricett; On-site; GBP 15,000 - 21,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

LEAN 1A qualification

Job summary

Boeing Defence UK is offering an Aircraft Maintenance Apprenticeship Programme with on-the-job training at RAF Lakenheath/Wattisham. You will study Level 3 Development Technical Knowledge and complete Level 2/3 NVQ Develop­ment Competence in Aircraft Maintenance, with specialised training in airframe, propulsion, electrical and avionics.

The 36-month programme starts in early September 2026 and provides hands-on experience, safety-focused practices, and opportunities to work across multiple UK

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 GCSEs (A*-C/9-4 or equivalent) including Science, Mathematics and English.
• Age 18+ by September 2026.
• 5+ years UK residency to gain/hold UK Security Clearance.

Responsibilities

• Conduct routine scheduled aircraft maintenance.
• Address unscheduled defect rectification.
• Implement aircraft modifications.
• Utilise approved maintenance documentation.
• Adhere to Health & Safety policies and procedures.
• Collaborate with professionals to enhance learning.

Skills

Two-Way communication

Adaptability & problem-solving

Teamwork & independence

Organizational & time management

Education

3 STEM A Levels or Level 3 STEM

Job description

Aircraft Maintenance Apprentice (Lakenheath/Wattisham)

Company: Boeing Defence United Kingdom Limited

Join Boeing Defence UK: Aircraft Maintenance Apprenticeship Programme

Are you ready to launch your career in aerospace engineering?

Boeing Defence UK is thrilled to announce an exceptional opportunity to join our award-winning, IET Accredited Burnell Aircraft Apprenticeship Programme.

Recognised as the Best School Leaver & Apprenticeship Development Programme at the Institute of Student Employers Awards 2023, the Regional Winner for Large Employer of the Year at the National Apprenticeship Awards – Southwest Region 2023, and the CIPD Best Apprenticeship Scheme 2024 our programme is designed to cultivate the next generation of skilled Vertical Lift Aircraft Maintenance Technicians.

Why Choose Boeing?

Top Engineering Employer: Rated #1 by RateMyApprenticeship for 2023 & 2024.

Hands-On Experience: Boeing Defence UK MRO are responsible in the UK for the maintenance of iconic defence aircraft such as the Chinook, Apache, P-8A, C-17 Globemaster and the E-7 Wedgetail.

Comprehensive Training: Gain practical skills and theoretical knowledge through a structured 36-month programme starting in early September 2026.

Programme Overview

This apprenticeship is tailored for highly motivated individuals eager to excel in a world-class engineering maintenance environment across our UK sites. Throughout the programme, you will:

• Study towards a Level 3 Development Technical Knowledge Qualification.
• Complete Level 2 and 3 NVQ Development Competence Qualifications in Aircraft Maintenance.
• Receive specialised training in airframe, propulsion, electrical and avionics.

Key Responsibilities

Under the guidance of experienced engineers, you will:

• Conduct routine scheduled aircraft maintenance.
• Address unscheduled defect rectification.
• Implement aircraft modifications.
• Utilise approved maintenance documentation.
• Adhere to Health & Safety policies and procedures.
• Collaborate with skilled professionals to enhance your learning experience.
• Adapt to changing demands in a dynamic work environment.

Working Environment and Physical Requirements

Aircraft maintenance is a physically demanding and dynamic profession. To be successful in this role, candidates must be comfortable and capable of working in the following conditions:

• Working at Height: Performing maintenance tasks on various sections of aircraft, which may require the use of ladders, platforms, or mobile elevated work platforms.
• Chemicals and Substances: Frequent interaction with aviation oils, lubricants, hydraulic fluids, and cleaning solvents. You will be required to strictly adhere to COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) regulations and safety protocols at all times.
• Environmental Conditions: The ability to work in varying outdoor weather conditions, as well as within hangar environments.
• Noise Exposure: Working in environments where high levels of noise are present, necessitating the consistent use of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Course Structure

• Months 1-10: Focus on Level 3 Development Technical Knowledge and complete Level 2 Foundation Competence qualification in the sheltered environment at International Centre for Aerospace Training (ICAT) in Cardiff (Free Accommodation provided)
• Months 11-36: Transition to on-the-job training at RAF Lakenheath/Wattisham Flying Station, while completing your level 3 qualifications.

Who We’re Looking For

We seek highly motivated individuals that live our Values and Behaviours:

• Strong Two-Way Communication skills.
• Adaptability and Problem-Solving abilities.
• A commitment to Teamwork and the ability to work independently.
• Excellent Organizational and Time Management skills.

Personal Qualities

• A willingness to learn and adapt to new challenges.
• A genuine passion for engineering.
• Flexibility to work at various UK Boeing sites as and when the business requires.
• The ability to understand and follow instructions safely and effectively.

Additional Benefits

• Contribute to increased productivity and support continuous improvement initiatives and gain a LEAN 1A qualification issued by Cardiff University.
• Collaborate with professionals at all levels within the organization.
• Promote and support Boeing's STEM Strategy and Priorities.

Basic Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 GCSEs (grades A*-C/9-4 or equivalent), including Science (preferably Physics), Mathematics (minimum grade C/5), and English (minimum grade C/5).
• Over 18 as of September 1st 2026
• 5+ years of UK residency to gain/hold UK Security Clearance

Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience)

• 3 STEM A Levels (Highers in Scotland) or a Level 3 STEM equivalent.
• Driving License.

Important Information

This position does not offer sponsorship approval. Candidates must have current legal authorisation to work in the UK. Boeing will not seek immigration or labour sponsorship for applicants. Benefits and pay are determined locally and are not part of Boeing U.S.-based payroll.

Language Requirements

Not Applicable

Education

Not Applicable

Relocation

Relocation assistance is not a negotiable benefit for this position.

Security Clearance

This position requires the ability to obtain United Kingdom Security Check.

Visa Sponsorship

Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.

Contingent Upon Award Program

This position is not contingent upon program award

Shift

Day Shift (United Kingdom)

You can do work that enables all of humanity to take flight. Our teammates in more than 65 countries grow their careers across commercial airplanes, space, defense, sustainability and other areas. Here, you can contribute to what matters most in your career, in your community and around the world.

Find answers to questions about applying, interviews, benefits, and more on FAQ page Boeing is committed to providing reasonable accommodations/adjustments to applicants with disabilities. Visit our accommodations page for more info.