GKN Aerospace
Trainee Aircraft Fitter
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Job Opportunity at GKN Aerospace
GKN Aerospace is the world's leading supplier in the aircraft industry. With 32 production locations in 12 countries, we serve more than 90% of the world's aircraft and engine manufacturers and achieved a turnover of £3.6 billion in 2025. We design and manufacture innovative smart aerospace systems and components. Every time you travel by plane, it is likely that GKN helps you on your way.
We are looking for people who want to make a difference, talented employees with the skills and passions to become the best at what they do.
Job Summary
- Start Date: February 2027
- Location: Filton, Bristol
Transfer Your Existing Skills into the World of Aerospace
Have you ever considered a career in the aerospace industry? Do you have hands-on experience in engineering or a mechanical trade?
If so, this could be your opportunity to take your skills to new heights.
Due to growing demand for our world-class products, GKN Aerospace is looking for skilled individuals to join our team as Trainee Aircraft Fitters at our major manufacturing site in Filton, Bristol.
At this site, we produce large and complex wing structures, metallic components, and advanced wing systems for both civil and military aircraft.
What You'll Bring
We're seeking enthusiastic and hardworking individuals who are ready to bring their skills to an exciting new opportunity.
- You will be willing to learn from others, embrace feedback, and adapt to new ways of working.
- Alongside a positive attitude, you'll demonstrate key workplace behaviours such as reliability, punctuality, and a strong commitment to delivering quality work.
You must have completed a Level 3 apprenticeship (or equivalent) in a relevant trade, such as:
- Motor Mechanics
- Marine or Agricultural Fitting
- Fabrication
- Welding
- Plumbing or Pipe Fitting
- Sheet Metal Work
- Pattern Making
- Jig Erecting
- Mechanical or A/C Fitting
- Or a similar engineering discipline
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Please note:
Applicants with an aerospace apprenticeship are encouraged to apply and may be fast-tracked.
What You'll Be Doing
As part of our Skills Transfer Programme, you will receive structured training and ongoing support to help you successfully transition into the aerospace industry.
Over two years, you will develop the technical knowledge, practical skills, and industry-recognised qualifications required to become a fully trained Aircraft Fitter.
The programme combines classroom-based learning with hands-on experience, enabling you to learn both traditional and modern aircraft fitting techniques, including pneumatic riveting, hole positioning and marking-out, drilling, filing and fettling, countersinking, and wire-locking.
Upon successful completion of the programme, you will achieve:
- Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Aeronautical Engineering (Aircraft Manufacture Mechanical)
- Level 3 Technical Certificate
All training is delivered at our Filton site by a dedicated assessor who will provide guidance and support throughout the programme. Learning activities include taught sessions, professional discussions, workplace observations, and portfolio development, all aligned with the qualification requirements.
The programme consists of eight knowledge-based modules delivered over the two-year period, with assessment milestones and submission deadlines typically scheduled every 6 to 8 weeks to support steady progression.
Working Hours
Foundation Training (first 6-8 weeks):
- Monday to Thursday: 07:00 - 15:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 12:00
Following transfer to the shop floor:
Working patterns will be based on operational requirements and may include either a 4-Day Week or 7-Day Fortnight shift pattern.
Applicants should be flexible, as shift work and overtime may be required. Additional pay and shift premiums apply where applicable.
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What We'll Offer
We provide a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including:
- A starting salary of £34,726, rising to £36,717 upon completion of training and again to £38,220 once fully certified (after around 3 months following completion of training)
- Industry Leading Pension Scheme = we’ll match your contributions up to 8% on a 1 : 1.5 basis
- Life Assurance 8 x salary
- 25 days' holiday + bank holidays
- Income protection
- Shopping discounts
- Free onsite parking, staff canteen, onsite shop and Cycle To Work Scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme
- A collaborative, dynamic working environment
We’ll offer you fantastic challenges and amazing opportunities. This is your chance to be part of an organisation that has proven itself to be at the cutting edge of our industry; and is committed to pushing the boundaries even further. And with some of the best training on offer in the industry, who knows how far you can go?
Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DIB)
As a global engineering company, innovation is what differentiates us from our competitors and is central to our success. A balance of cultures, ethnicities, and genders help bring new ideas and creativity to GKN. We need people of different backgrounds, with different skills and perspectives to spark originality, imagination, and creativeness in our teams around the world.
GKN is an equal opportunity employer. We treat all our employees and applicants fairly and are committed to ensuring that there is no discrimination or harassment against any employee or qualified applicant on the grounds of age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, nationality, sex, or veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.
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