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Early careers

Early careers

Our people are the driving force behind the technologies that protect the UK and its allies. That’s why we’re committed to developing the next generation of talent, empowering apprentices and graduates at our Oakdale and Hastings sites to build meaningful careers in the defence industry.

Whether you’re an engineer, software developer, project manager, or finance expert, everyone here plays a part in delivering mission-critical defence solutions.

Here, you’ll find the freedom to grow, the support to lead, and the inspiration to help shape a safer, more secure future for our nation.

Start your Career with Purpose

We believe that colleagues early in their careers (graduate and entry-level roles) deserve more than just a job. When you join us, you’re stepping into a career that helps protect UK national security and support global stability.

From your very first day, you’ll be working on real-world defence programmes that make a difference. Whether you’re supporting engineering teams, contributing to project delivery, or learning the ropes in a technical or business support role, you’ll be gaining hands-on experience that matters.

You won’t be doing it alone. Many of our colleagues began their journey just like this. Today, they’re leading teams, shaping strategy, and building careers they’re proud of – some have been with us for over 5, 10, even 15 years.

What you’ll get

We’re committed to helping you thrive – professionally and personally. Here’s what you can expect:

Competitive Salary – Fair pay from day one, with regular reviews
Flexible Working – Hybrid options and flexible hours to support work-life balance
Generous Annual Leave – Time to rest, recharge, and take care of what matters
Pension Scheme – Helping you plan for the future with confidence
Employee Discounts – Access to a wide range of retail and lifestyle savings
Health & Wellbeing Support – Including mental health resources and employee assistance programmes

GROW WITH US

Your development is our priority. We’ll support you every step of the way with:

Structured Onboarding – A clear path to help you settle in and succeed
Mentoring & Coaching – Learn from experienced professionals who’ve been where you are
Training & Certifications – Opportunities to build skills and gain recognised qualifications
Career Pathways – Clear progression routes into specialist, technical, or leadership roles
Internal Mobility – Explore different teams and departments as your interests evolve

If you’re ready to learn, grow, and be part of something meaningful, we’re ready to welcome you. We hire throughout the year. To keep updated with new opportunities, check our vacancies regularly or follow us on social media.

Don’t see a vacancy that suits you? Join our Early Careers Talent Community to receive updates on new roles that match your skills and interests.

Apprentices

Our apprenticeship schemes are designed to launch the careers of future innovators, offering a unique blend of hands-on experience and supported learning – all within a mission-driven environment. From day one, you’ll be guided by the brightest minds in the defence industry as you gain real-world skills and confidence to take with you throughout your career.

We open our apprenticeship schemes on an ad-hoc basis, depending on current opportunities in our Hastings and Oakdale sites. To keep updated with new opportunities, check our vacancies regularly or follow us on social media.

We typically open applications for our apprenticeship scheme between mid-November and January. To stay informed about upcoming early careers opportunities, keep an eye on our website, follow us on social media, or check in with Careers Wales.

What we look for in future apprentices

We’re looking for passionate, curious individuals who are eager to learn and ready to contribute to the future of defence technology. To thrive in one of our apprenticeship schemes, you’ll need:

A genuine interest in engineering and the defence industry
A genuine interest in engineering and the defence industry
A minimum of 5 GCSEs at grades A–C / 9–4, including English and Maths
A commitment to personal growth, learning, and development

For our Mission Systems apprenticeships in Wales, you’ll need to be able to attend both the Newport and District Group Training Association (NDGTA) training centre in Newport and our site in Oakdale.

What to expect as a Mission Systems apprentice

We believe in giving you the tools, support, and opportunities to grow – because your success truly helps drive our mission. Here’s what you can look forward to:

A competitive starting salary, plus the opportunity to earn a bonus of up to 10% based on your performance and the company’s success
A structured 4-year scheme designed to build your skills and confidence
A comprehensive benefits package starting from day one
Continuous training and development
Guidance and mentorship from experienced professionals
Support from a dedicated HR advisor throughout your journey
Real, hands-on project work that contributes to national security and innovation
Protected time to attend college and focus on your studies

Our apprenticeship recruitment process

Step 1: Choose your apprenticeship
Explore our available apprenticeship opportunities and select the one that aligns with your interests and future ambitions.
Step 2: Apply online
Click the relevant vacancy link to complete your application and upload the application as your CV. This is your chance to tell us about yourself, your interests, experiences, and what makes you a great fit for the role.
Step 3: Initial selection & testing
If your application is successful, you’ll be invited to complete assessments at the college associated with your apprenticeship scheme.
Step 4: Selection
Candidates who progress will be invited to a final selection event at the location of the apprenticeship. This may include team-building tasks, individual presentations, and face-to-face interview. This is just as much an opportunity for you to get to know us as it is for us to get to know you.

If our apprentice scheme isn’t currently open, we’re still eager to connect with emerging talent who share our mission and drive. By joining our Early Careers Talent Community, you’ll be the first to hear about new roles that match your skills and interests – so you’re ready when the right opportunity comes along.

To learn more about the apprenticeship and junior level opportunities offered by the Land Systems line of business.