Trainee Aircraft Fitter

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Date: May 14, 2026

Location: Bristol, GB

Company: GKN Aerospace Careers

Fantastic challenges. Amazing opportunities.

 

GKN Aerospace is reimagining air travel: going further, faster and greener! Fuelled by great people whose expertise and creativity sets the standards in our industry, we’re inspired by the opportunities to innovate and break boundaries. We’re proud to play a part in protecting the world’s democracies. And we’re committed to putting sustainability at the centre of everything we do, opening up and protecting our planet. With over 16,000 employees across 33 manufacturing sites in 12 countries we serve over 90% of the world’s aircraft and engine manufacturers and achieved sales of £3.35 bn.in 2023. There are no limits to where you can take your career.

Job Summary

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 motivated individuals with a strong work ethic and a “can-do” attitude, who are ready to apply their existing skills in a new and exciting environment.

 

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

 

Please note:

 

  • Candidates with a Level 2 qualification must have prior aerospace experience.
  • 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’ll receive structured training and support to transition into the aerospace sector. Over two years, you will gain the qualifications and experience needed to succeed as a fully trained Aircraft Fitter.
 

Through our programme, you will achieve:

 

  • Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Aeronautical Engineering (Aircraft Manufacture Mechanical)
  • Level 3 Technical Certificate

 

Working Hours

 

  • 35-hour working week
  • Shift work and overtime may be required (with additional pay and shift premiums)

  

What We'll Offer

We provide a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including:

 

  • A starting salary of £33,390, rising to £35,304 upon completion of training and again to £36,750 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?

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?

 

A Great Place to work needs a Great Way of Working

 

Everyone is welcome to apply to GKN.  We believe that we can only achieve our ambitions through a coming together of diverse minds who enjoy collaborating in an inspirational environment. Through our commitment to diversity, inclusion and belonging and by living our five powerful principles we’ve created a culture where everyone feels welcome to contribute.  It’s a culture that won us ‘The Best Workplace Culture Award’.  By embracing and celebrating what makes us unique we encourage everyone to bring their full self to work.

We’re also committed to providing an accessible recruitment process, so if you require reasonable adjustments at any stage during our recruitment process please get in touch and let us know.

We are the place where human dreams, plus human endeavour, shape the future of aerospace innovation and technology. ​
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