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Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions

All FAQs
How can I find open roles at GKN Aerospace?

You can search for jobs here by keyword, team, or location, or simply click on ‘open roles’ to see everything available

What can I do if no open roles match my skills?

We often add new roles. Check back again soon, or register your details here to get notified when something new is posted. 

Do you accept applications by email?

Please only use the online application process to make sure it gets to us safely. You’ll find the ‘Apply now’ button at the bottom of the role description.  

Is my data protected?

Yes. We protect all person personal data as detailed in our Privacy Statement.

What qualities do you look for in a candidate?

We know great colleagues come from different backgrounds and have different skill sets. Our diversity makes us greater. So, you don’t need to fit a specific mould to work at GKN Aerospace.

We generally look for people who care about teamwork, thrive in innovative environments, and want to make aviation more sustainable. Depending on the role, we might also look for specific technical qualifications.

Do I need to speak another language?

We use English as our business language, and the job description will highlight whether another language is necessary.

How does GKN Aerospace encourage diversity and inclusion?

For us, diversity is essential. We rely on diverse teams to spark incredible innovations and keep us moving towards a better future.

Our team comprises talented people of all genders, orientations, abilities, races, and religions. Your community is our community, and all are welcome here. You can learn more about our diversity, inclusion and belonging initiatives here.

What is the working environment like?

We’re a global family made of close-knit local teams. We’re serious about an open, honest working environment with respect and care for every team member. You can learn more about our unique culture here.

What opportunities are there for career progression?

We offer a wealth of training opportunities as a path to recognised qualifications and industry-leading practical experience.

You’ll also be encouraged to explore international prospects in the 14 countries where we operate. Our people are our most incredible asset, and we’ll do everything we can to help you reach your potential.

How can I apply for a role in another country?

 You can search for roles in a specific location here. Before you apply, please ensure you’re eligible to work in that country. 

Remember that when you join GKN Aerospace, you can take advantage of future international opportunities in the next stage of your career, too. 

Do you offer relocation assistance?

Yes – we’re keen to attract the best talent, no matter where you are. Most of our positions do provide relocation assistance, and the hiring manager will be happy to disucss this.

Do you offer internships?

Yes. Choose from placements across all our departments, including Engineering, Manufacturing, HR, and Management. We offer internships across our 33 international manufacturing locations, which can vary from a few weeks to a year. 

We post the majority of our internships between September and November. Search for open internships here or see more information here. 

Do you recruit graduates?

Yes. In our global graduate programme, you can choose from placements across our business areas and international locations.

Search for open graduate roles here or see more information here. 

How do I apply for work experience?

For our Bristol location, send your CV and a short cover letter to bristol.wex@gknaerospace.com. For Cowes, use  cowes.wexchampion@gknaerospace.com

How long is a work experience placement?

All placements are for one week. 

Am I eligible to apply?

We offer week-long placements to anyone between 14 and 18.

When will I hear if I’ve been selected?

We’ll try to get back to you as soon as possible, but please bear in mind it could take up to four weeks. 

Can I apply for work experience in more than one area?

Unfortunately not. Due to high demand, we ask that you choose the area you’re most interested in. Please mention your chosen area in your cover letter. 

What should I wear for my work experience placement?

Business-casual dress works well. 

What are the hours of a work experience placement?

Most of our placements follow our regular business hours, 8am-4pm from Monday-Friday. Certain placements may require work outside of these hours. 

If I am unsuccessful, can I apply again next time?

Yes, you’re welcome to send in another application.

Can I get feedback on my application?

Unfortunately, we cannot offer individual feedback due to the volume of applications we receive. We encourage you to explore our website and think about why you’re attracted to work experience at GKN Aerospace, then try to include this in your cover letter.

Is work experience paid?

No, all placements are voluntary. If you’re interested in a paid position at GKN Aerospace, have a look at our apprenticeships or internships

When will I hear if I have been selected for the graduate programme?

We try to get back to everyone as quickly as possible. Please bear in mind that this could be several weeks at peak times.

What’s the assessment process for the graduate programme?

Each of our graduate roles has different processes. The journey may include a telephone interview, face-to-face interview, technical quiz, or an assessment centre.

Can I apply for more than one graduate role?

Yes. All our positions are different, so you can apply for as many as you wish.

How can I find out about the status of my application?

We know that waiting to hear about the outcome of an application can be frustrating – thank you for your patience as we work through the applicants. 

Once you’ve applied, you will automatically receive an email to say we’ve received your application. As soon as a decision has been made on the next stage, you’ll hear from a member of the recruitment team.

I have a disability. How will you support my application?

Our team comprises talented people of all abilities, and we will always make the required adjustments. Please contact the hiring manager to discuss anything we can do to support your application. 

Do you accept applications from candidates who require a work permit?

We usually need candidates to be eligible to work in their chosen location. If you require a work permit, please contact the hiring manager. 

Does GKN Aerospace reimburse travel expenses for assessment centres?

Yes. If you get invited to an assessment centre, you’ll also get details on how to claim back reasonable expenses.

What is the starting salary for GKN Aerospace’s graduate programmes?

Starting salaries vary by programme.

We also offer a wealth of opportunities, qualification paths, and benefits like flexible holidays and generous pension contributions.

If I’m accepted into a programme, when do I start?

Start dates vary by programme, but you’ll get all the details and plenty of notice during the assessment process.

I don’t have an engineering background. Can I still apply for the graduate programme?

Yes. Our graduate programme offers a choice of placements across our business areas. Whether you’re looking at engineering, finance, IT, operations, management, or marketing, your skills are involved in our work at GKN Aerospace.