Engineering Wales Aircraft Systems & Component Workshop Apprenticeship

Embark on a Groundbreaking Engineering Apprenticeship with British Airways Engineering Wales!

Are you an ambitious individual with a passion for all things mechanical and electrical, eager to lay the foundation for a distinguished career in aviation engineering? British Airways Engineering Wales is seeking motivated, hands-on candidates to join their esteemed Aircraft Systems & Component Workshop Apprenticeship. This is a unique, three-year opportunity to immerse yourself in the intricate world of aircraft systems, contributing to the safety and reliability that defines British Airways.

This apprenticeship offers an unparalleled chance to gain practical experience in a high-spec, modern workshop environment. You will be instrumental in the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of critical aircraft components, ranging from sophisticated flight-deck instruments and communication systems to essential motors, actuators, and wiring looms. Furthermore, you'll play a vital role in maintaining and calibrating the specialist tooling and test systems that ensure every component meets the most stringent aviation standards. At the core of this role is a commitment to safety, reliability, and continuous innovation.

Key Advantages for Aspiring Engineers:

• Comprehensive Skill Development: Rotate through diverse workshop environments including mechanical, electrical/electronic, avionics, and systems maintenance. This exposure ensures a well-rounded engineering foundation.
• Hands-On Experience with Critical Components: Work directly with a wide array of vital aircraft parts, including navigation, flight deck, radio & radar modules, lighting systems, motors, actuators, wiring looms, and aircraft safety systems.
• Advanced Diagnostic Training: Learn to identify and resolve complex issues using state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and test equipment.
• Holistic Understanding of Aviation Engineering: Gain insight into the repair and overhaul of components, as well as the crucial calibration and upkeep of essential test equipment and tooling.
• Formal Qualifications and Career Progression:
  • Year 1: Undertake a full-time enhanced engineering program at Coleg y Cymoedd, working towards a technical certificate and an NVQ practical qualification.
  • Years 2 & 3: Apply your learning hands-on at British Airways Engineering Wales, continuing your NVQ studies while rotating through departments.
  • Long-Term Career Path: Successful completion of the apprenticeship can lead to skilled engineering roles within British Airways, with ongoing training and development opportunities.
• Valuable Employee Benefits:
  • Potential for salary increase upon successful completion of the first year.
  • Receive your British Airways Engineering Wales uniform from day one, symbolizing your integration into the prestigious family.
  • Become part of a vibrant apprentice network, fostering connections and learning from peers and experienced professionals across the business.
  • Opportunities to engage in Community Investment programmes, including fundraising and volunteering, allowing you to give back and inspire the next generation.
  • Enjoy the ultimate perk: heavily discounted flights, providing unparalleled opportunities to explore the world.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Program Duration: This is a 3-year apprenticeship.
• Location: Opportunities are based at Cardiff Airport, Wales.
• Remuneration: The starting salary is from £14,000, with specific details provided during the assessment centre, depending on the chosen scheme.
• Academic Requirements: A minimum of 5 GCSEs (A*-C / 9-4), including a grade B (6) or higher in Maths, and grade C (4) or above in English Language and Science. Alternatively, a Level 2 Engineering qualification with Distinction in Maths and Science is acceptable.
• Eligibility: Applicants must be over 16 years of age and resident in Wales, with the legal right to work in the UK.
• Work Schedule: Be prepared for a standard day shift pattern (06:30 – 14:30).
• Commute: Due to potentially limited public transport links in the area, candidates who can drive or are learning to drive are strongly advised to apply.
• Application Process: Applications open between 3rd November 2025 and 3rd December 2025, and may close earlier due to high demand. You can only apply for one apprenticeship programme; your first application will be considered. Be mindful of deadlines for all stages, including online tests and video interviews.
• Authenticity: British Airways values your authentic voice. While AI tools can be helpful for grammar, they recommend avoiding their use to ensure your personality shines through in your application.

This apprenticeship represents a significant investment in your future, offering a blend of theoretical learning and practical application within a world-leading aviation engineering environment. If you are driven, detail-oriented, and ready to commit to a challenging yet rewarding career path, this opportunity at British Airways Engineering Wales is an exceptional choice.