Quality Engineering Apprentice

Job Summary

Location: Luton UK
Start Date:September 2026

Join Us and Shape the Future of Flight!

Ready to be part of something incredible As a Quality Engineering Apprentice at our GKN AerospaceLuton site youll join a team that designs and manufactures some of the most advanced aerospace components in the world. From flight deck windows and wing deicing systems for civil aircraft to canopies and specialist system components for fighter jets the work youll be part of truly helps aircraft take to the skies safely and reliably.

Youll earn while you learn studying for aChartered Quality Institute (CQI) recognised Level 4 Quality Practitioner qualification (equivalent to HNC) followed by a Level 5 Improvement Specialist apprenticeship (equivalent to HND). Over the 48month programme youll rotate through different functions across the Luton site gaining handson experience and building a strong foundation in the tools processes and ways of thinking used by quality engineers across the aerospace industry.

With aerospace technology evolving fast from new materials to smarter more efficient systems. This apprenticeship puts you in the middle of a dynamic and forwardlooking industry. Youll gain the skills and experience to help us deliver highquality products for both civil and military aircraft while building a strong foundation for your future career.

What Youll Be Doing

Across a wide variety of placements at our Luton site youll learn how we manufacture and assemble precision aircraft systems and components; and how our quality team keeps everything performing at its best.

Years 1 & 2 Build Your Foundations

Youll develop core quality and engineering skills including how to:

• Understanding and applying aviation regulations standards and policies
• Collecting interpreting and analysing data to improve production processes
• Working with multifunctional teams to problemsolve engineering challenges
• Gaining exposure to manufacturing assembly testing and other specialist aerospace processes
• Learning how to identify manage and deliver quality improvement projects
• Planning and carrying out system process and product audits
• Analysing risks and learning how to mitigate them
• Spotting gaps in process performance and helping develop improvement plans
• Supporting design engineering manufacturing engineering and operations teams with qualityrelated queries and investigations

Years 3 & 4 Step Up and Lead

As your confidence grows youll move into more advanced responsibilities such as:

• Leading and contributing to continuous improvement projects
• Building project plans and presenting them for review
• Coaching and supporting others in using quality tools
• Mapping and analysing processes and value streams
• Studying process capability and evaluating performance
• Creating predictive data models
• Working with suppliers to develop their processes and reduce quality issues
• Assuring quality for both steadystate and new product introduction activities
• Supporting leadership in defining strategy preparing resources and communicating improvements across the business

On completion you could progress into roles such asProduct Assurance Engineer or Supplier Quality Engineer with opportunities to grow into future leadership positions.

What Youll Bring

Were looking for someone whos curious motivated and excited by the challenge of solving real engineering problems. You dont need experience just enthusiasm and the drive to learn.

Essential

• GCSEs in English Maths and Science Grade 4 or above
• Fluent English communication (verbal and written)
• A genuine passion for problemsolving you enjoy digging into challenges exploring how things work and finding smart ways to make them better
• A curious questioning mindset you like connecting the dots thinking things through and tackling complex ideas
• A desire to grow your criticalthinking skills and apply them in real engineering situations

Desirable

• Clear and confident communication skills you enjoy sharing ideas collaborating and building positive working relationships
• Experience working on projects or in environments where youve organised tasks solved problems or kept things moving
• Alevels or equivalent in STEM subjects beneficial but not essential
• Early exposure to quality work or regulated industries (aviation automotive medical etc.) helpful but not required

What Well Offer

When you join us youre stepping into a programme designed to support your development and set you up for longterm success. Heres what youll get:

• 4year fixedterm contract
• Level 4 Quality Practitioner apprenticeship certification recognised by the CQI
• Level 5 Improvement Specialist apprenticeship certification
• Industryrecognised training in aerospace standards tools and processes
• A Competitive Salary of 19506
• Half day finish on Fridays!
• 185 hours holiday (plus bank holidays!) to recharge and relax
• Discounts on your favourite shops and brands
• A top-tier pension scheme we boost your savings for the future
• Life assurance and income protection because your wellbeing matters
• Access to a 24/7 support programme if you ever need to talk
• Virtual GP appointments for you and your close family
• Cycle To Work Scheme
• Free onsite parking
• Local gym discount
• Free airport parking

Youll also gain access to huge opportunities within our global network. Once youre part of GKN Aerospace your career could take you places you never expected - and well be here to support your growth every step of the way.

To find out more about apprenticeships at GKN and hear from our apprentices click here Apprentices - GKN Careers

Please note: Some GKN programmes have restrictions which may impact certain nationalities. Therefore when you apply well ask you to tell us your nationality.

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