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What is Switch?

Switch into Aerospace Engineering is our 4 - 4.5 year career development programme for professionals from any background.

No matter what qualifications or work experience you have, Switch gives you support and training to build the skills you need to secure an exciting role as an Aerospace Fitter or Machinist at our facilities in Derby.

Join our Switch into Aerospace Engineering programme and make your career switch with Rolls-Royce.

What's in it for you?

Joining Switch, you will embark on a rewarding career at a leading global company with limitless opportunities.
 


This includes:

  • Expert training, great colleagues and interesting work.
  • A Level 3 apprenticeship qualification.
  • Developing functional skills in Maths and/or English (if required).
  • A potential salary of over £39,000 after 4 - 4.5 years.
  • 33 days of holidays and a selection of health and wellbeing benefits.
  • Specialist support and resources to help you make the switch.

Everything you need to succeed.

How can I apply?

Applications have closed.

To be notified about 2026 application dates and other similar opportunities, join our Emerging Talent Community below.

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How it works

Meet Liam

Switched from: Solicitors Firm

"Make that jump, make that leap of faith, and I can assure you that you won’t regret it"

Meet Hallie

Switched from: Civil Engineering

"When you refer to the best of the best, you refer to it as the Rolls- Royce of something. For me, Rolls- Royce means the pinnacle of British Engineering"

Meet Amy

Switched from: NHS

"I’m most excited to advance myself, meet other people, and the opportunities that I’ll be given in the future"

How to apply

It’s a simple process that’s all about getting to know you. Here’s a taste of what to expect.

We want you to be at your best at every stage. If you have any questions, need adjustments, or want to make us aware of any personal circumstances, If you have any questions… get in touch here. We’re here to help.

Frequently asked questions

Upon successful completion, you will secure a role as an Aerospace Fitter or a Machinist within a Rolls-Royce facility.

As an Aerospace Fitter, you’ll be the person who assembles our aircraft engines, using a range of tools and technical instructions. It’ll be your job to make sure components, and the way they’re assembled ,meet the high standards we demand for our world-class engines. You will learn to use a range of hand tools, measuring instruments, and workshop machinery. In addition, you'll also develop proficiency in reading engineering drawings and applying our systems for quality control, documentation, and operational safety.

Our Machinists do precision work, making parts and components for our engines from specialist materials, using world-class machinery. Beyond making parts, it’ll be your job to measure and check they’re exactly right and meet our quality requirements. You’ll learn how to use a range of machines and tools, as well as how to interpret written instructions and plan work. You’ll also develop knowledge of different metals and materials, learning to select the right equipment and settings that will shape them into the components we need. Plus, you’ll become familiar with all the systems, policies, and procedures we follow to create high-quality parts.

This program is designed for people who want to change their career path, regardless of their current background or qualifications.

No, the programme is specifically for those looking to "switch" into the industry. Your life experience and motivations are valued just as much as your existing qualifications and experience.

The process consists of four main steps: an online application, a telephone call and test, a face-to-face assessment, and finally, an offer.

You do not need a CV. The online application form is all that is required. Rolls-Royce wants to learn about your unique life experiences and interests.

The programme's application window is typically open at specific times of the year. Make sure to continuously check the Rolls-Royce careers website for the most current dates.

The programme is a blend of classroom study and hands-on, on-the-job training. In the first year, you will spend most of your time in the Apprentice Academy, with some time dedicated to work placements. In the final years, you will work on-site, learning on the job, while continuing your studies one day a week.

You will have a dedicated mentor throughout the programme to support your professional and personal development.

The programme will enable you to gain a Level 3 apprenticeship qualification and a functional skills qualification in Maths and/or English, if needed.

The salary for the programme increases year by year. After four years, you have the potential to earn a salary of over £39,000.

You will receive 33 days of annual leave (including bank holidays) and a selection of health and wellness benefits.

Yes, this is a career development programme designed to secure an exciting role as an Aerospace Fitter or Machinist at our facilities in Derby.

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