Aircraft Maintenance Apprentice (Lakenheath/Wattisham)

Boeing; Wattisham; On-site; GBP 19,000 - 23,000; Full time

Job summary

Boeing Defence UK invites motivated individuals to join a structured 36-month Aircraft Maintenance Apprenticeship Programme, starting September 2026. Trainees will gain hands-on experience across UK sites, studying towards Level 3 Development Technical Knowledge and NVQ qualifications in Aircraft Maintenance.

The role emphasizes safety, learning, and collaboration in a world-class engineering environment. Participants will train at ICAT in Cardiff initially, then move to RAF Lakenheath/Wattisham

Qualifications

• GCSEs including Science, Mathematics and English are required.
• Two-way communication and adaptability are essential in a team-based environment.
• Commitment to safety, learning, and following instructions in a complex maintenance setting.

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 experience.
• Adapt to changing demands in a dynamic work environment.

Skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

Time management

Education

GCSEs (Science, Math, English)

STEM A Levels or Level 3 STEM equivalent

Job description

Job Description

At Boeing, we innovate and collaborate to make the world a better place. We’re committed to fostering an environment for every teammate that’s welcoming, respectful and inclusive, with great opportunity for professional growth. Find your future with us.

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

• 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

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

• 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.

Export Control Requirements: This is not an Export Control position.

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.

Shift: Day Shift (United Kingdom)

Equal Opportunity Employer: We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not accept unlawful discrimination in our recruitment or employment practices on any grounds including but not limited to; race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military and veteran status, or other characteristics covered by applicable law.

We have teams in more than 65 countries, and each person plays a role in helping us become one of the world’s most innovative, diverse and inclusive companies. We are a Disability Confident Committed employer and welcome applications from candidates with disabilities. Applicants are encouraged to share with our recruitment team any accommodations required during the recruitment process. Accommodations may include but are not limited to: conducting interviews in accessible locations that accommodate mobility needs, encouraging candidates to bring and use any existing assistive technology such as screen readers and offering flexible interview formats such as virtual or phone interviews.

Application Deadline

Applications for this position will be accepted until Oct. 23, 2026