EngineeringTechnology
Hardware Engineering - Electronics Degree Apprenticeship
Airbus Defence and Space Limited · University of South Wales
Location
Newport
Salary
£23,000 per year
Duration
5 years
Hours per week
37h
Positions available
1
Level
Level 6 – Degree
Degree awarded
BSc (Hons) Hardware Engineering
Start date
31st August 2027
Application deadline
26 October 2026
Vacancy reference
JR10433054
Minimum grades
A Levels: Maths and one numerate subject (Physics, Chemistry, Biology or Geography); GCSE Maths and English Language grade 4/C or above; 120–160 UCAS points
About the role
Hardware Engineering degree apprenticeship at Airbus Defence & Space Newport focusing on high-grade cryptographic systems and key management. You will join a team of skilled engineers developing next-generation encryption devices. The role combines rotational placements across departments including Production, Test & Verification, and New Product Development. You will receive on-the-job training and a formal BSc (Hons) degree qualification while being paid with no course fees.
Requirements
Minimum 120–160 UCAS points from A Levels including Maths and an additional numerate subject (Physics, Chemistry, Biology or Geography), or BTEC National Diploma at PP or BTEC Extended Diploma at PPP. 3 GCSEs at Grade 4/C or above including Maths and English Language. Genuine interest in electronic design and development. Highly self-motivated with good verbal and written communication skills. Subject to BPSS security clearance and potentially UK SC-level Security Clearance. Must have current legal authorisation to work in the United Kingdom.
Working week
37 hours per week with half-day Fridays (subject to completing full hours prior)
Skills
PCB design and repairSchematic captureComputer Aided DesignSolderingRequirements captureElectronics designProduct testing and verificationTechnical documentationCryptographic systems knowledge
Required qualifications
Essential
A Level · Maths
Essential
A Level · Physics, Chemistry, Biology or Geography
Essential
GCSE · Maths · Grade 4
Essential
GCSE · English Language · Grade 4
Desired
BTEC National Diploma · Any · Grade PP
Desired
BTEC Extended Diploma · Any · Grade PPP
Training & development
On-the-job training in high-grade cryptographic development. Rotational placements across departments (Production, Test & Verification, New Product Development) to learn key skills including: construction of complex low volume communication products, maintenance of product assembly and test capabilities, repair and test of products, PCB design and repair to IPC standards, requirements capture, soldering to approved standards, schematic capture, Computer Aided Design for simulation and design, in-house electronics design, and documentation.
Additional training
Formal BSc (Hons) Electrical and Electronic Engineering degree from University of South Wales. Training in existing Ectocryp and CertSecure suite of products. Possibility of European assignments and further personal development opportunities.
Future prospects
Upon completion, you will have a BSc (Hons) Hardware Engineering degree and comprehensive technical skills in electronics design, cryptographic systems, and product development across multiple departments, positioning you for the next step in your aerospace engineering career.
Company benefits
37 hours per week with half-day Fridays (subject to completing full hours prior). 25 days holiday plus bank holidays. Pension. Success share. Flexible benefits. No course fees.
Things to consider
Offers for candidates with predicted grades are conditional on achieving the position's requirements before the apprenticeship start date. You will be subject to BPSS security clearance and may need UK SC-level Security Clearance or Export Control depending on the role. You must have current legal authorisation to work in the United Kingdom for the full duration of the programme. This role does not meet minimum requirements for UK Visas & Immigration sponsorship of migrant workers. Early submission of applications is recommended.
About Airbus Defence and Space Limited
Airbus is a global leader in aeronautics, space and related services. In 2016, it generated revenues of €67 billion and employed around 134,000 people. Airbus offers the most comprehensive range of passenger airliners, is a European leader in tanker, combat, transport and mission aircraft, Europe's number one space enterprise, and the world's second largest space business. Airbus also provides the most efficient civil and military rotorcraft solutions worldwide.
Website
www.airbus.comContact email
apprentices@airbus.com