Satellites Assemble, Integrate and Test Craft Apprenticeship (Level 2)

Airbus S.A.S.; Stevenage; On-site; GBP 15,000 - 21,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Starting salary £18,000

Pension

25 days holiday

Flexible benefits

Job summary

Airbus Defence & Space in Stevenage offers a Satellites AIT Craft Apprenticeship, developing both mechanical and electrical skills by hands‑on work on satellites and related test activities.

You will learn through Year 2–3 across mechanical and electrical streams, following drawings and process instructions while contributing to a leading space programme. No prior experience required; on‑the‑job training provided.

Qualifications

• GCSE Maths and English is desirable.
• Strong communication, reliability and a good work ethic are expected.
• Ability to follow technical instructions and work well independently or in a team.

Responsibilities

• Assemble satellite components using adhesives, bonding methods and assembly tools.
• Install connectors, brackets and thermal components to satellite structures.
• Perform basic electrical assembly, tests and quality checks.
• Follow drawings and tolerances to 3DX procedures.
• Handle materials, tools, parts and job documentation.
• Contribute to on‑site assembly, integration and test activities.

Skills

Communication

Reliability

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Education

GCSE Maths & English

Job description

Year 2: During the Apprenticeship you will have a unique opportunity to experience our Satellites AIT Production area of the business which will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of how a Satellite is manufactured at Airbus Defence & Space. This includes working in small teams or on a one-to-one basis to manufacture Satellites using the latest approved processes and advanced production techniques for Satellite manufacture. Your key activities & responsibilities will be: Mechanical Assembly

• Use of various different adhesives and bonding methods
• Use of hand measuring tools to meet tight tolerances
• Installation of various components to satellite structures
• Installation of various connector brackets
• Bonding of Heater Mats, Thermocouples and Thermostats to various surfaces
• Following process and tolerances to drawings on 3DX

Electrical

• Perform electrical assembly, integration and modification of electrical systems (harness routing, electrical connection, soldering, crimping).
• Perform basic electrical tests (continuity, bonding, insulation, DC high voltage).
• Perform first level quality inspection.
• You will handle raw materials, tools, standard parts and components, documentation (technical instruction, work order, test procedure, job card, etc).

Year 3: You will be fully on-site, fine tuning your hand skills against the business skills matrix., What is it about Airbus that makes you excited to start a career with us? Is it our aircraft, innovation, global impact, or something else? Let us know what interests you about our work and why we stand out to you.

Why a hands-on apprenticeship?

Why do you want to learn by doing? We'd love to hear what draws you to practical, skills-based learning.

Show your hands-on experience.

In your CV or cover letter, include any hands-on activities or hobbies where you've used practical skills. These could be things like: + DIY projects + Building and fixing things + Doing make-up or beauty work + Tinkering and Tech Projects + Building models + Baking or cooking + Others Show Us What You've Built! We love seeing what you are passionate about. If you've worked on any hands-on projects-whether it's building, baking, fixing something -we'd be thrilled to see it! Feel free to attach photos, documents, or a short video showcasing a project you're proud of. This isn't a requirement, but it's a fantastic way to give us a glimpse of your practical skills. We can't wait to see your work!

Funding Eligibility

Funding Eligibility: Applicants must be aged 16-21 and cannot hold a Level 2 or higher qualification (e.g., NVQ, BTEC, HND, or Degree) in Engineering, Aerospace, or related technical fields. For more information, please consult Foundation Apprenticeships Criteria

Education

Education: No strict formal entry requirements, though a Grade 3 (or equivalent) in GCSE Maths and English is desirable.

Skills & Attributes

Skills & Attributes: Strong communication, reliability, excellent work ethic, a can-do attitude, and the ability to follow technical instructions and work well independently or in a team.

No prior experience required

No prior experience required-full on-the-job training will be provided., This job requires an awareness of any potential compliance risks and a commitment to act with integrity, as the foundation for the Company's success, reputation and sustainable growth.

Airbus is Europe's number one Defence and Space enterprise, so what better way to start your Craft Apprenticeship than with an industry leader.

Being a Satellites AIT Craft Apprentice at Airbus means you will get to develop both Mechanical and Electrical skills at Satellite level to Assemble, Integrate and Test hardware to deliver world class products to the launch pad. This apprenticeship offers a unique opportunity to launch your career in the fascinating world of Satellite Assembly, Integration and Test. As a Satellites AIT Craft Apprentice, you'll be part of a team and gain hands‑on experience in a supportive and innovative environment, contributing to projects that push the boundaries of technology. This programme is perfect for those with a passion for both mechanical and electrical precision, a knack for problem‑solving, and a keen interest in seeing their work take flight. Join us in shaping the future of space exploration!

Airbus is committed to achieving workforce diversity and creating an inclusive working environment. We welcome all applications irrespective of social and cultural background, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation or religious belief. Airbus is, and always has been, committed to equal opportunities for all. As such, we will never ask for any type of monetary exchange in the frame of a recruitment process. Any impersonation of Airbus to do so should be reported to [e-mail]. At Airbus, we support you to work, connect and collaborate more easily and flexibly. Wherever possible, we foster flexible working arrangements to stimulate innovative thinking.

Salary and Benefits

• Salary: A competitive starting salary of £18,000 37 hours per week // Up to 2 Flexi Days per month // 25 days holiday plus bank holidays // Pension // Plus many more flexible benefits!