Craft Plant Apprenticeship - Surface Finisher

Airbus; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace manufacturer in the United Kingdom is looking for Craft Surface Finish Fitting apprentices. You will learn foundational skills in surface finishing and apply them on live aircraft projects. Candidates must have relevant GCSE qualifications and show hands-on experience. The apprenticeship offers a pathway to becoming a skilled Surface Finish Fitter with a Modern Apprenticeship Certificate.

Benefits

Gen A support network

Learning HUB support and events

Modern Apprenticeship Certificate

Qualifications

• Successful completion of secondary education with relevant GCSE grades.
• Ability to adhere to safety protocols and equipment maintenance.
• Willingness to learn and demonstrate hands-on skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the preparation and painting of the wings for aircraft.
• Skillfully apply multiple coats of paint and inspect for quality.
• Follow safety protocols while maintaining equipment.

Skills

Hands-on experience in practical skills

Mechanical fitting activities

Quality inspection techniques

Education

Grade C or 4 in Maths

Grade C or 4 in English Language

Grade CC or 44 in Double Award Science or Grade C/4 in Physics

2 other GCSEs at grade C or 4

Job description

**Start date:** September 2026 **Location**: Broughton **Duration**: 36 months**Application**: We love your interest in joining Airbus! There is no limit on the number of positions you can apply for, however, please be aware that **you can only progress in the selection process for one position at a time**. We recommend reviewing all available opportunities and applying to those that best match your experience and aspirations.As a Craft Surface Finish Fitting apprentice you’ll immerse yourself for the first 12 months of the programme learning the foundational skills required in the preparation and application of surface finishes. While completing your academic studies the course will also cover an element of mechanical fitting activities.This program is designed to equip you with valuable qualifications and competencies to work directly on live aircraft. You'll also benefit from our Gen A support network and learning HUB, providing additional support, events, and opportunities for all early career participants.* NVQ Level 2 diploma in Performing Engineering Operations;* Level 2 Academic Qualification* Level 2 Essential Skills;****Year 2 and 3:****Your Learning Takes Flight at Broughton! Building on your foundational knowledge, you'll join our world-class team at the Airbus Broughton site in North Wales. Here, you'll apply your skills directly to live aircraft projects and assist in the preparation and painting of the wings for our Single Aisle and Wide body families. Your varied tasks will require a range of technical skills. This will include:Application & Quality: Skillfully applying multiple, even coats of paint using precise techniques, while monitoring environmental conditions. A crucial part of the role is inspecting the finish for quality, making adjustments, and performing touch-ups, all while strictly adhering to safety protocols and equipment maintenance.Upon successful completion of your 36-month apprenticeship, you'll become a **skilled** **Surface finish Fitter**, specialising in the preparation and application of surface finishes plus the ability to drill-off and assembly of both metallic and composite components to produce the wing box structure on our world-class Airbus aircraft. You'll receive a Modern Apprenticeship Certificate, setting you up for a fantastic career.* Grade C or 4 in Maths* Grade C or 4 in English Language* Grade CC or 44 in Double Award Science OR Grade C/4 in Single award in Physics.* Plus 2 other GCSEs at grade C or 4 (other qualifications that are equivalent or higher may be considered as an alternative to the additional 2 GCSE’s)* Apply by attaching your CV and cover letter.* **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