What is Switch?

Switch into Aerospace Engineering is our 4 - 4.5 year career development programme.

No matter what qualifications you have, or where you’re working now, Switch helps you learn, build skills, and secure an exciting role as an Aerospace Fitter or Machinist in either Derby or Bristol.

Our dedicated programme gives you the support and training to discover what we know you’re capable of.

What you get from Switch

  • Expert training, great colleagues and interesting work
  • A Level 3 apprenticeship qualification and a functional skill in Maths and/or English if applicable
  • A potential salary of over £39,000 after the successful completion of your Switch programme
  • 33 days' holiday and a choice of health & wellbeing benefits
  • A career at a global company with broad opportunities
  • Specialist support and resources to help you succeed

How the programme works

If you like the idea of a job that gives you fantastic colleagues, great long-term progression, and the opportunity to play a part in our world-class engineering and technology capability – this is how our Switch into Aerospace Engineering programme will get you there.

Year 1

For the first few weeks, you’ll get to know Rolls-Royce and the people who’ll be with you throughout your programme. This includes a mentor and your fellow ‘Switchers’. From there, you’ll split your time each week as follows:

  • Four days a week based at either the Apprentice Academy in our Learning & Development Centre in Derby or Weston College and the Filton site in Bristol.
  • One day a week studying for your Knowledge qualification (EAL Level 2 Certificate in Engineering Operations)
  • Two extended work placements on site in either Derby or Bristol.

Year 2

You’ll be aligned to an Aerospace Fitter or Machinist apprentice role. You’ll spend more time at your training provider where you’ll continue to develop both your academic knowledge and practical skills.

This will be combined with spending time on site at a Rolls-Royce facility, developing your workplace skills and working on parts that go into our world-class aircraft engines. You’ll get half a day each week to meet with your mentor, discuss your progress, work on personal skills and get any extra support you need to succeed.

Year 3 and 4

You’ll work four days a week on site in your role, learning on the job. One day a week will be spent at your training provider, studying the academic qualifications required for your Level 3 apprenticeship.

How can I apply?

Applications are now open. Apply below for ‘Derby’ or ‘Bristol (Defence)’.

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"
What is a Fitter?
What is a Machinist?

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.