Engineering Apprenticeship Program
Our Engineering Apprenticeship Program is a comprehensive, four-year, full-time program designed to develop the next generation of aircraft maintenance engineers.
Apprenticeship opportunities with Qantas Group
We offer a range of apprenticeships at our Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney airport maintenance facilities. Opportunities span aircraft trades (avionic, mechanical and structural) as well as non-aircraft trades. Trade availability may vary each year.
Apprenticeship opportunities with Qantas Group
We offer a range of apprenticeships at our Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney airport maintenance facilities. Opportunities span aircraft trades (avionic, mechanical and structural) as well as non-aircraft trades. Trade availability may vary each year.
Aircraft engineering trade
All our aircraft engineers begin their careers as apprentices, combining study with paid, on-the-job training. Our apprenticeship program gives you the opportunity to work for a world-class airline while earning a nationally recognised qualification in the aerospace industry through a registered training organisation.
We offer three aircraft engineering trade pathways. It’s important to understand each trade and our recruitment process, as you can only apply for one trade. Take a few minutes to read the information below to help you choose the pathway that’s right for you
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Avionic Apprentice
Are you scientifically minded, with a passion for electronics and creating devices powered by electronic energy? As an Avionic Apprentice, you’ll gain a deep understanding of aircraft electrical and communication systems. You can specialise in:
- Electrical power systems
- Aircraft Instrument systems
- Autopilot and navigation systems
- Communication systems
- General electrical and indicating systems
- Associated electronic systems
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Mechanical Apprentice
Are you mechanically minded and interested in how and why things move? You might enjoy building or restoring mechanical devices or have a strong interest in physics. As a Mechanical Apprentice, you'll inspect, test, and maintain the Qantas Group Fleet. You can specialise in:
- Aircraft engine systems
- Aircraft structures
- Landing gears, wheels and brakes systems
- Hydraulic/pneumatic systems
- Flight control systems
- Environment control systems
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Structural Apprentice
Do you want to be involved in a design and craft role where you are designing and building things from scratch? The Structures trade is highly specialised involving the use of high-tech materials and processes. As a Structural Apprentice, you'll ensure the safety and airworthiness of an aircraft by keeping the structural components in optimal condition. You can specialise in:
- Repairs to sheet metal and advanced composite materials
- Modification programs
- Fabrication
Day in the life: Engineering Apprentice
Meet Tiffany a first-year Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Apprentice, as she shares what it's like to start her career with Qantas.
Day in the life: Engineering Apprentice
Meet Tiffany a first-year Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Apprentice, as she shares what it's like to start her career with Qantas.
Since starting as a Mechanical Apprentice in 2023, the supportive environment and daily opportunities for continuous learning have made me feel truly comfortable in the workplace.
I enjoy working on a variety of aircraft and tackling different tasks each day. I have the privilege of learning from a diverse group of engineers with deep knowledge and expertise.
Your apprenticeship benefits
Benefits that support you through your apprenticeship and beyond
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Zero student debt
We’ll cover the cost of your apprentice course and accreditations. Additionally, as an apprentice you receive a salary, so you’ll earn while learning.
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Evolve your career
Our apprentices move up to qualified engineers in just a few years with structured on-the-job training, putting you in a prime position for career growth.
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The engineering community
Enjoy the chance to work with a network of some of Australia’s best engineers and build a strong culture and community across all apprentice specialties.
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Explore the world
As a Qantas employee, you’ll have access to staff travel, which allows significant discounts on standby and confirmed flights for you, your friends, and family.
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Feel supported
Our Employee Resource Groups embrace inclusion and diversity in the workplace. Including Altitude for gender equality and Daramu for First Nations employees.
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Appreciate each other
Our ThankQ program allows us to thank teammates for their excellent work. ThankQ points can be redeemed for gift cards, travel credits and Qantas Points.
Engineering apprenticeship recruitment journey
Applications for the Engineering Apprenticeship Program typically open around July and August each year. We pride ourselves on conducting a fair, equitable, transparent and accurate recruitment process to recruit the best candidates. To achieve this, we conduct an extensive and thorough screening and selection process.
Check criteria
Before you apply, make sure you check that you meet the minimum criteria for our role requirements (see FAQs below)
Upload a CV
Upload a cover letter that will help us get to know you better and an up-to-date CV that highlights any relevant skills and qualifications.
Online assessment and online technical competency assessment
This assessment will measure mathematical and mechanical aptitude.
Assessment Centre
If you meet the initial requirements, you may be invited to an assessment day. The day often includes group activities, role-play scenarios, and individual face-to-face interviews, giving you the chance to demonstrate your technical experience, and ability to work in a team, and communicate effectively.
Pre-Employment checks
Before we make an offer, successful candidates will need to complete various checks, including reference checks, a background check, criminal and security clearances, and a medical examination.
Offer of employment
If we think you would be a great fit and your pre-employment checks are up to standard, you may receive a formal job offer to join the team.
Frequently asked questions
What are the minimum requirements to be considered for an Apprenticeship?
There are minimum entry level requirements that need to be considered before making your application to join the Qantas Engineering Apprenticeship program. You must:
- Be an Australian or New Zealand Citizen or Australian Permanent Resident.
- Be at least 15 years of age or older at time of employment.
- Have completed a minimum of Year 10 or equivalent.
- Pass a Federal Police criminal history check to establish your eligibility to hold an ASIC (Aviation Security Identification Card).
- Pass a pre-employment medical examination.
- Be able to work a seven day rotating shift roster which covers a 24 hour schedule.
Can a school-based trainee apply?
Yes, however, this is a full-time opportunity so only suitable for candidates who have finished full-time study.
What do I wear to the assessment centre?
Make a good first impression by wearing clean, neat attire. That you will be comfortable in for a 3 hour session. Steer away from ripped clothes.
What if I am unable to attend an assessment centre?
We will have designated days of assessment centres per port. If you cannot attend the specific dates for your port, you can attend another port's assessment centre, although this will be at your own cost. If you can't attend any of the dates, you will unfortunately need to withdraw your application and reapply the following year.
Will Qantas cover the expenses for me to travel to the assessment centre?
Travel costs to attend the assessment centre will be at your own expense.
Do I need a driver's licence?
For all roles in Perth with Network Aviation you will need to have a driver’s licence (P plate is acceptable). For all other roles, if you are under the driving age, this is not required for your apprenticeship. However, a full driver's licence is required if you successfully complete your apprenticeship and wish to apply to become an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer with Qantas.
Do I need to pay for the apprenticeship course?
Qantas pays for your training course, and you will also be paid by Qantas when you are attending theory classroom-based lessons as part of your training at the RTO training facility.
When does the program start?
If you are successful, you will start your apprenticeship early the following year.
Is the program a full-time or part-time position?
The apprenticeship is a full-time commitment with Qantas for the 4-year term of the apprenticeship.
How will I successfully graduate from the program?
Keeping up to date with your studies throughout your apprenticeship is important, including on the job and when completing theory training. Also, all exams must be passed to successfully graduate from the Apprenticeship Program.
What will my roster look like during the apprenticeship?
It will depend on your work location and other operational requirements; however, you will need to be able to undertake shift work on a rotational 7-day roster during the period of your apprenticeship.
Will I be given a role after the apprenticeship?
This is subject to roles being available at the end of your apprenticeship. Successful graduating apprentices can apply for any available permanent position within the Qantas Group. This will be discussed as you come to the end of your apprenticeship.
If I have already completed a Certificate II or IV in Aeroskills, will this qualification transfer to my Apprenticeship if successful?
If you already hold a Certificate in Aeroskills, you may be eligible for recognition of prior learning. This will be finalised if your application is successful for the program.
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