Sponsored Editorial

Did you know that some of the most exciting, and high-end aerospace technology is developed, manufactured and maintained at BAE Systems?

And that the control sticks that pilots use to direct and manoeuvre aircraft are made at BAE Systems’ Electronic Systems site in Rochester? In fact, BAE Systems makes the control sticks for the F-35 fighter jet, and for many commercial aircraft too.

They also make augmented reality displays for pilots, including those installed on Typhoon aircraft. BAE Systems currently has vacancies for trainee test technicians at their Rochester site.

Those on the training scheme will have the opportunity to develop into a fully-fledged Technician after six months, and work with advanced technology such as pilots’ helmets, head-up displays, flight control computers, control sticks and throttles.

Applicants are required to hold an NVQ level 3 in engineering or electronics (or equivalent qualification), in order to be eligible for the scheme, which begins with two weeks’ of classroom based, ‘underpinning knowledge’ training. From there, it’s onto the test environment to learn on-the-job, with tutoring from their colleagues.

“The team is keen to pass on their knowledge to new employees, which is fantastic. Most of my learning has taken place organically,” said James Wentworth, trainee test technician at BAE Systems in Rochester, who joined in March this year.

“My experience as a trainee test technician at BAE Systems has been really positive. My role is challenging, but enjoyable, and I feel supported to succeed. Many of my peers have come through the trainee scheme, so it’s great to see the program works.”

Employees on the scheme get to work on state-of-the-art electronics.

James adds: “I get to test the latest control sticks on one of the world’s most cutting edge fighter jet programs. It’s rewarding to know that the work I do significantly impacts the ever-changing world around me”.

Jack Rogers came through the training scheme and is now a fully-fledged test technician working on the F-35 project, where he repairs units sent from the field.

He said, “What’s great about being a Test Technician is that every day is different, and interesting. I get to work with units that have a variety of issues, which is like solving a puzzle. What’s more, the culture at BAE Systems makes it a wonderful place to come to work each day.”

Emily Chad joined BAE Systems in Rochester as a trainee test technician just over two years’ ago.

“The trainee test technician scheme is great; it helped me develop my knowledge and skills,” she said. “I get to work on flight control computers, wing pylon station units, and other products for Typhoon.”

The scheme has helped Emily to grow her career. Earlier this year, Emily became a ‘Leading Hand’ in the area she works in. This is a junior leadership role in the department, which sees Emily coach and tutor colleagues.

“It’s a really nice job,” added Emily.

“I enjoy helping and training others, and assisting the team leader. I’ve trained team members on a few of our products and how to test them. I’ve also mentored a member of the team for twelve weeks.”

James Strickland passed the training scheme and had been working as a test technician for around three and a half years, when a team leader position came up.

“Initially I built up my confidence working on a number of high profile and complex projects – now I’m a team leader, passing on my knowledge to the next generation coming through,” said James.

“I would recommend BAE Systems as a great start to a career for anyone interested in working with leading edge electronic systems alongside a friendly team of people.”

Mark Applegate, operations manager responsible for the program at BAE Systems in Rochester, explained that in addition to gaining excellent test knowledge and experience, there are a number of internal development, and further education opportunities.

“Since 2018, our training schemes have introduced more than 40 new starts to BAE Systems in Rochester, making it one of the key ways that we attract and develop technicians. The trainee schemes help to source and grow our talented workforce, supporting the vital work we do, and offering exciting career opportunities.”

Look out for the upcoming job adverts online. To learn more, or apply, visit the BAE Systems website.