Rolls-Royce Switch into Aerospace Engineering - Derby, UK

Rolls-Royce; Derby; On-site; GBP 39,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job description

Rolls-Royce Switch into Aerospace Engineering Programme

Duration: Typically 4 - 4.5 years

Starting salary: Competitive

Location: Derby

Are you looking for something different? Have you ever considered what it takes to assemble aerospace engines or make parts using the latest manufacturing technology and processes? Perhaps you've never thought this type of work was for you? It's time to change that thinking - and invest in your future with Switch into Aerospace Engineering.

On this career development programme, you'll get our full support and expert training to discover what we know you're capable of. Along with the qualifications and confidence to become an Aerospace Fitter or Machinist in our state-of-the-art facilities, you could be earning a salary of over £39,000 at the end of four years.

It doesn't matter what qualifications you have, where you're working now, or if life has taken you in a different direction. Because the essential skills you need are probably the skills you already use every day. Everything else, we're here to show you.

So, if you like the idea of a job that gives you fantastic colleagues, great long-term progression, and the opportunity to play a part in our world-leading work - it's time to Switch.

Is this programme for you?

Yes, if you're the kind of person who:

• likes to get hands on and do practical tasks
• uses their initiative and can organise their time
• is good at problem solving
• works really well in a team.

This programme requires hard work and lots of learning. If you're offered a place, we'll support you to achieve the equivalent of a GCSE in Maths and English.

So, while you may not have achieved a grade C in these GCSEs (or O-Levels/CSESs) when you were at school (or it's been a while since you got them), we're looking for people who are capable and committed to learning at this level.

What's more important than anything, however, is an interest in the work we do and an eagerness to develop.

What you'll do

Through Switch into Aerospace Engineering you'll train in one of two roles - and you'll get to experience them both before you decide which one is for you. Forget what you think you know about 'factory' environments. At Rolls-Royce, our facilities are open and modern - spaces you'll enjoy being in every day.

• Aerospace Fitter: Learn to assemble aircraft engines using a range of tools and technical instructions. It'll be your job to make sure the components and the way they're assembled meet the high standards we demand.
• Machinist: This is precision work, making components from specialist materials using world-class machinery. Measuring and checking they're exactly right for our requirements too.

How it works

Year one

For the first few weeks, you'll get to know Rolls-Royce and the people who'll be with you throughout your programme. This includes a mentor and your fellow 'Switchers'. From there, you'll split your time each week as follows:

• Four days a week in the Apprentice Academy at our Learning & Development Centre in Derby, where you'll develop your practical skills to enable you to achieve a Level 2 Engineering Operative qualification.
• One day a week you will be studying for your Knowledge qualification (EAL Level 2 Certificate in Engineering Operations) where you'll attend classes and develop your digital skills and Engineering knowledge.
• You will have two extended work placements within our Derby facilities to give you insights into the roles available for you to choose in Year two.
• Where required, you'll start some of your days (07:45-09:15) at Derby College, studying and improving your skills in Maths and/or English.

Year two

You'll choose to train as either an Aerospace Fitter or Machinist apprentice. You will spend up to two days a week at our Learning & Development Centre where you will continue to develop both your academic knowledge and practical skills.

The rest of your week will be spent on site at a Rolls-Royce facility, developing your workplace skills and working on parts that go into our world-class aircraft engines. You'll get half a day each week to meet with your mentor, discuss your progress, work on personal skills, and get any extra support you need to succeed.

Year three and four

You'll work four days a week on site in your role, learning on the job. One day a week will be spent at our Learning & Development Centre, studying the academic qualifications required for your Level 3 apprenticeship.

What you'll get

• Expert training and recognised qualifications: At the end of four years, you'll have a Level 3 apprenticeship and more. And if you don't have them already, we'll help you achieve a functional skill in Maths and/or English.

• A career you can progress in: After four years, you'll be earning a competitive salary. Plus, working at one of the world's leading engineering companies opens up many opportunities. From an Aerospace Fitter or Machinist, you could progress to become a production leader, for example, or perhaps explore other areas of engineering.

• Plenty of support throughout: Alongside your mentor, managers, teammates, and a community of 'Switchers', there are many other sources of support for you to tap into. Everything from our employee networks to our Mental Health and Wellbeing Champions, to the hundreds of other skills you can learn independently through our online tools.

Some of the other benefits include:

• annual pay rises and pension scheme
• 33 days' holiday per year (including bank holidays)
• a choice of voluntary benefits including discounted healthcare and free digital GP, dental care, life insurance, discounts at nationwide stores, gyms, Cycle to Work scheme, and more all available on our TotalReward portal
• an independent, 24-hour, confidential counselling service

How to apply

You don't need a CV. Just click apply and complete our online application. It's a simple form that asks about you - your interests, life experiences and what you enjoy. Visit https://careers.rolls-royce.com/united-kingdom/students-and-graduates/switch-into-aerospace-engineering to learn more.

Who we are

Rolls-Royce develops safety critical, complex power, and propulsion solutions for use in the air, at sea, and on land. We've designed the world's most efficient large aero engine, powered nuclear submarines, enabled land-speed records, and even supported NASA missions on the edge of space. Rolls-Royce is one of the most enduring and iconic brands and has been at the forefront of innovation for over a century. Designing, building and servicing systems that provide critical power to customers, where safety and reliability are paramount. Join us and be welcomed into a friendly, inclusive culture. A place where you can be your best and feel like you belong.

CLOSING DATE: Friday 23rd May 2025, 12pm (GMT)

We reserve the right to close the job advert early dependent on application volumes.

Assessment centres for this programme will take place in June.

We recruit, select, and develop our people on merit, regardless of age, disability, gender identity or expression, race/colour/nationality/ethnic or national origins, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable legislation.

Programme

Job Posting Date: 07 Apr 2025; 00:04