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BAE Systems in Rochester is set for another record-breaking early careers recruitment drive in 2024.

With more than 90 roles available for apprentices, undergraduates and graduates, the company is offering more young people than ever the prospect of exciting long-term careers supporting the nation’s armed forces and security services.

But the application window for early careers closes at the end of February, so don’t delay.

Tech fans will have the opportunity to embark on BAE Systems’ hardware engineering degree apprenticeship, which is running for the first time at Rochester this year.

Degree apprenticeships allow you to earn while you learn, and achieve a university degree. Those who pass have the opportunity to stay on in the company as fully-fledged engineers.

Adam joined the Rochester site’s first ever software engineering degree apprenticeship last year.

He said, “I planned to study aerospace engineering at university, until I heard about BAE Systems’ software engineering apprenticeship. I’m being paid to learn on the job and I’ll still get a degree at the end of it – amazing!”

“So far I’ve been involved with research and development for several projects. One is to do with virtual reality and the other is to do with human-machine interfaces. It’s been awesome!”.

“The apprenticeship removes the need to search for a job as a graduate too – I know it’s a worry for many, as it’s a competitive market.”

“I get on really well with my apprentice cohort and we all go to university for a week every three months and meet other degree apprentices from around the company. The flexible work hours allow me to balance my studies and keep up with my sports and social life outside of work.”

Alexa is a hardware engineer, having completed the graduate scheme in 2022.

Her first experience at the company involved developing tests for an augmented reality pilot helmet as an undergraduate on a summer internship. She was offered a place on BAE Systems’ graduate programme after completing her degree.

Alexa said, “The graduate scheme gave me the chance to work on world-leading technologies, and the ability to apply my skills and solve real problems, which motivated me to try my best every day.”

“I was lucky to be selected for BAE Systems’ Future Talent programme, which is designed to accelerate the development of future leaders.”

“This has led to a number of exciting projects alongside my day job. One was rebuilding a product demonstrator kit for a head-up display camera, resulting in a whirlwind three-day trip to Switzerland to show it to the customer!”

Where could your career take you?

Explore apprenticeships, internships and graduate schemes at BAE Systems.