Operations Apprentice

Job Summary

Start Date:

September 2026

Location:

Western Approach Business Park, Bristol, BS35 4GG

Shift Pattern: 07:30-15:30, Monday-Friday

Due to the nature of this programme, applicants must be aged 18 or over as of September 2026

Ready to build something amazing?

Our four-year Apprenticeship Programme is your chance to dive into the world of cutting-edge manufacturing and engineering — no experience needed. You’ll learn by doing, get paid while you train, and grow your skills alongside experienced mentors who will support you all the way.

At GKN Aerospace, in partnership with Weston College, we’ll teach you the skills you need to succeed – combining classroom learning with hands‑on experience in real, industry‑focused environments. With our expert support, your curiosity, and a can‑do attitude, there’s no limit to what you can achieve.

Our Western Approach site is an International Centre of Excellence in composite wing structure design and production, manufacturing composite wing spars and Fixed Trailing Edge assemblies for the Airbus A350 & A400M.

Build Your Future in Aerospace!

In this hands‑on role, you’ll be part of a team delivering the future—building parts, testing systems, and working with powerful tech and tools – don’t worry, we’ll teach you how! You will gain real transferable skills that matter, from operating advanced machines to turning complex ideas into reality. Your work helps aircraft take flight – it’s exciting, practical, and open to everyone.

If you enjoy problem solving, teamwork, and making things happen, this is your launch pad to a powerful future.

You’ll be part of a team that’s got your back from day one – with awesome people ready to support you, guide you, and celebrate your wins. We’re all about creating a friendly, inclusive space where everyone can learn, grow, and smash their goals.

We offer two exciting pathways:
Fitter and Machinist, each with its own focus and opportunities.

Fitters put together components & sub‑assemblies that go into the aircraft on our customers’ final assembly lines. Fitters work to manufacturing & engineering instructions/drawings & will use skills including:
Drilling, reaming & countersinking;
Riveting & bolting;
Using automated/robotic drilling equipment;
Functional testing of mechanical systems.

Our Integrated Machining Facility at Western Approach focuses on the manufacture of composite wing spars. Skills/knowledge developed will include:
Operating 3, 4 & 5 axis CNC Milling machine tools;
Operating co‑ordinate measuring machines (CMM), conventional & digital measuring equipment;
Understanding processes, procedures & engineering drawings.

Year 1- is all about getting you ready to hit the ground running. You’ll build the core skills, knowledge, and confidence you need to succeed in years 2 & 3 – with the right mix of learning, support, and hands‑on prep to make it happen. You'll split your time working offsite at college completing your foundation training as well as working onsite.

Years 2 & 3- You’ll rotate through different areas of the business, gaining hands‑on experience and expanding your knowledge along the way. You’ll have regular check‑ins with your GKN training advisor to track your progress, all while continuing your college studies one day a week.

Year 4- In your final placement, you’ll focus on your final department, build specialist skills, and complete your final assessments – all leading to your apprenticeship qualification.

• Willingness to Learn
  You're open to new ideas, ready to take on feedback, and always looking to grow. You don’t need to know everything now — just be ready to learn and improve every step of the way.
• Positive Attitude
  You bring energy, enthusiasm, and a ‘can‑do’ mind set to whatever you’re working on. Even when things get challenging, you stay focused and keep pushing forward.
• Curiosity
  You like to ask questions, explore how things work, and understand the bigger picture. You’re interested in the details and eager to find out more.

To help us make a difference, you'll bring your passion and commitment to the role, as…