GKN Aerospace Global Graduate Programme - Cyber Security

GKN Aerospace; East Cowes; Hybrid; GBP 31,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace company is looking for a Cybersecurity Training and Awareness Specialist to develop and implement training programs that enhance cybersecurity awareness among employees. The ideal candidate will have a degree in a related field and strong problem-solving skills, with opportunities for career growth and international collaboration. This role offers a starting salary of £31,000 plus benefits.

Benefits

£1,500 joining bonus

Generous benefits package

Structured development journey

Qualifications

• Curious, motivated graduates who want to make an impact in aerospace.
• Committed to fostering a culture of security within an organization.
• Ability to develop and implement comprehensive training programs.

Responsibilities

• Develop training programs on cybersecurity best practices.
• Analyze user engagement and training effectiveness.
• Collaborate on raising awareness about cybersecurity.

Skills

Enthusiasm, creativity, and passion

Strong problem-solving and analytical skills

Great communication skills

Collaborative mindset

Education

A minimum 2:1 degree in Cybersecurity, Information Security, Communications, or a related field

Job description

Fantastic challenges. Amazing opportunities.

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

Start your career shaping the future of aerospace - in a place where you’ll feel supported, inspired, and encouraged to grow.

The role of a Cybersecurity Training and Awareness Specialist is pivotal in fostering a culture of security within an organization. This specialist is responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive training programs that educate employees about cybersecurity best practices, potential threats, and the importance of maintaining a secure digital environment. By analysing user engagement and training effectiveness, they continuously improve the content to ensure it remains relevant and impactful. This role not only enhances the overall security posture but also empowers employees to be proactive in safeguarding sensitive information.

The Cybersecurity function’s goals

• Build a clear and practical framework to guide cybersecurity training and awareness.
• Collaborate with business teams to raise awareness and explore opportunities together.
• Provide the tools, knowledge, and support needed to scale cybersecurity awareness responsibly across the organization.

You will work collaboratively with global colleagues in developing cybersecurity awareness and training strategy with tailoring for different roles. Working closely with subject‑matter experts ensures the accuracy and relevancy of the materials. Enabling harmony in cybersecurity awareness and training across multiple jurisdictions (e.g. UK, EU, US, APAC). Ensuring all awareness and training campaigns support compliance with Defense Industry Standards. You will then evaluate and report the effectiveness of the programmes through feedback, assessments, and performance metrics, making necessary adjustments to improve learning.

This role has the ability to be based from our sites in Isle of Wight, Bristol, or Luton. With a preference for someone to be based at the East Cowes, Isle of Wight office with the rest of the UK Cyber Security team. Travel will be an expectation for this role so a Full UK Driving License would be beneficial.

From day one, you’ll take part in a structured onboarding and development journey, supported by a mentor, buddy, and our Global Graduate Community, giving you encouragement, guidance, and opportunities to build your network. Beyond your core role, you’ll also have the chance to contribute to community projects, STEM outreach, and our early careers strategy - because at GKN Aerospace, we believe in making a positive difference together.

What You’ll Bring

We’re looking for curious, motivated graduates who want to make an impact in aerospace.

• Enthusiasm, creativity, and passion - with the drive to grow into a future leader and technical expert.
• A minimum 2:1 degree, achieved within the last two years or due to graduate in 2026, in Cybersecurity, Information Security, Communications, or a related field.
• Strong problem‑solving and analytical skills, with a willingness to learn and develop new approaches.
• Great communication skills and a collaborative mindset, with the ability to build positive relationships and work effectively in diverse teams.

What We’ll Offer

At the heart of everything we do are our five culture principles: Safe, Respect & Care, Open & Honest, Innovative, and Ownership. Safety always comes first, but so does your growth, wellbeing, and future.

Here’s what you can look forward to when you join us:

• A 24‑month programme with a guaranteed permanent role when you finish.
• Varied and rewarding placements across different projects, programmes, and locations.
• The chance to work on innovative technologies that inspire change and shape the future of aerospace.
• Opportunities for international exposure and collaboration.
• A structured development journey designed to help you discover your strengths.
• Ongoing support from a dedicated Home Manager, mentor, and buddy throughout your programme.
• A starting salary of £31,000, plus a £1,500 joining bonus and a generous benefits package.
• High visibility across the business - from sites and locations to customers and senior stakeholders.
• Ambassador opportunities to inspire others as a STEM ambassador.
• A welcoming global graduate community - a network of peers, friends, and future leaders.

We’ll support your career progression by providing you with the learning, development, and flexibility to thrive. And because we’re a global business, your career could take you further than you imagined.

What To Expect In The Selection Process

Our application process is designed to be simple and supportive:

1. Apply online by completing our application form, including a few pre‑screening questions.
2. Take part in an online assessment if you meet the initial eligibility criteria. Once you’ve been sent the link you will have 2 weeks to complete the assessment.
3. Meet one of our friendly team members (yes, a real human!) for a virtual interview if you’re successful at the assessment stage. To be held during December.
4. Join us at our Assessment Centre at the Global Technology Centre in Bristol, to be held on 10th, 11th, or 12th of February. This is where you will get the chance to showcase your skills and potential.
5. Begin your journey with us in September 2026, as part of our Graduate Programme.

Further information on our Global Graduate Programme can be found on the FAQs section on our careers website: FAQs – GKN Careers.

Closing date: Sunday 9th November (we recommend submitting your application without delay).

We’ll offer you fantastic challenges and amazing opportunities. This is your chance to be part of an organisation that has proven itself to be at the cutting edge of our industry; and is committed to pushing the boundaries even further. And with some of the best training on offer in the industry, who knows how far you can go?

A Great Place to Work Needs a Great Way of Working

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 are the place where human dreams, plus human endeavour, shape the future of aerospace innovation and technology.