The Virgin Australia Aircraft Maintenance Apprenticeship Program is a unique opportunity to play an integral role in the evolution of Australia’s most loved airline, and to become a part of a dynamic company that genuinely believes and demonstrates that its people are its greatest asset.
A career as an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer requires a high level of dedication and passion. In return you will be placed in a world class maintenance organisation and will receive the benefits of training in a large Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) Part 145 maintenance organisation.
Once you successfully complete the program, you can look forward to an exciting career as an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer with the Virgin Australia team.
We recommend you review the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) prior to commencing an application to ensure you understand the requirements of the course and the role.
Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) opportunities
Avionics
As an AME Avionics - you will be responsible for the inspection, troubleshooting, maintenance and overhaul of the electronic components of an aircraft.
This includes:
- Electrical power systems
- Aircraft instrument systems
- Autopilot systems
- Navigation systems
- Communication systems
- Onboard entertainment systems (WiFi)
Mechanical
As an AME Mechanical you will be responsible for the inspection, troubleshooting, maintenance and overhaul of the mechanical components of an aircraft.
This includes:
- Aircraft engine systems
- Aircraft structures
- Landing gear, wheels and brakes systems
- Hydraulic/pneumatic systems
- Flight control systems
- Environment control systems
Requirements
- A passion for aviation and commitment to the Aircraft Maintenance Apprenticeship Program
- Minimum 18 years of age
- Australian or New Zealand Citizen
- Must be able to demonstrate English language proficiency (where English is a second language)
- Basic computer skills
- Hold a current Australian driver’s license
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Availability to work a 24-hour roster over 7 days, including weekends and weekdays, public holidays and peak holiday periods such as Christmas, New Year and Easter
- The Ability to successfully obtain an Aviation Security Identification Card and pass a Background Police check
- Pass a pre-employment medical examination
Recruitment process
The recruitment process begins with your application, which must be submitted online through the Virgin Australia Careers website. Your online application should provide information about your professional and educational background to demonstrate that you meet the requirements of the role. It is also important that you take the time to read the position information carefully to make sure that your experience and skills match the role requirements.
If your application meets the minimum requirements and is short-listed, you will be invited to attend a Recruitment Day at the base you have applied. Further information about the recruitment process will be provided at the Recruitment Day.
Please refer to our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for further information about the recruitment process.
Training
An apprenticeship will offer you the ability to work for an ESA Part 145 organisation while undertaking training to achieve a nationally recognised qualification within the aerospace industry.
- You will be supported by an international and nationally recognised training organisation
- You will undertake practical training developing the required practical skills and knowledge required to be granted a nationally recognised Certificate IV in Aeroskills
- You’ll be rotated through the Engineering department as required for completion of their practical elements
- During practical training at the workplace you will be required to work permanent night shift
- Pay will be in line with our current EBA.
Frequently Asked Questions
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When will the Apprenticeship commence?
The apprenticeship will have an estimated start date of Mid-January for each year.
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Do I need to have any practical experience to apply for the Engineering Apprenticeship program?
Practical experience isn’t essential to apply. However, if you’ve gained some hands-on exposure through school projects, hobbies, or part-time work involving mechanical or electrical activities, it will be viewed positively.
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Can I apply for the Apprenticeship if I don’t have a Certificate IV in Aeroskills?
Yes, you can apply for the apprenticeship program without having completed the Certificate IV in Aeroskills. While some applicants may have started or completed this qualification, it’s not a pre-requisite — we consider all candidates based on their motivation, potential, and suitability for the program.
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Do you only accept applications for the Apprenticeship Program online?
Yes, only applications submitted via our Careers website will be accepted.
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How long will the selection process take?
We aim to keep you informed throughout the selection process. As we receive a high volume of applications and often have opportunities in multiple ports, timeframes can vary. Rest assured, we’ll keep you updated on the progress of your application.
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Can I ask for feedback on my application if I am not progressed throughout the recruitment process?
Due to the high interest and number of applications we receive, it is not possible to provide individual feedback to unsuccessful applicants throughout our process. We encourage candidates to reflect on their application and review our program requirements.
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Is the course available as a full-time course only, or could I take all or parts of it on a part-time basis?
This is a full-time course only.
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Can I complete a shorter course if I have some RPL?
No. All Apprentices in the Program will complete the full course of training. Recognition of prior learning may be possible, however it is an expectation that candidates will start the course at the same level.
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Will I be guaranteed a role with Virgin Australia at the end of the Engineering Apprenticeship program?
Apprentices who successfully meet all requirements of the course and meet all the Virgin Australia Behaviour Standards and Terms of Employment will get the opportunity to apply for a permanent position.
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Where will I be based for the Program?
When applications open, we’ll share details on the available apprenticeship disciplines and locations. Availability and locations may vary from year to year, depending on business needs.
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If I am successful in being invited to attend an Assessment Day what will I need to bring?
You will be given full details of what you need to bring with you prior to your attendance.
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What if I am unable to attend my Assessment Day?
Assessment Days will be held on specific days at each port. If you cannot attend, you may need to re-apply the following year. Please advise the Talent Acquisition Partner and they will discuss with you.
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Are there expenses involved in participating in the selection process?
Applying is free! Just keep in mind that you'll be responsible for your travel expenses if you're invited to an assessment day, as well as the cost of your pre-employment medical check if you are successful.
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What should I wear for the selection process?
We are looking for people who will role model Virgin Australia brand and uniform standards. Therefore, we expect candidates to attend wearing appropriate business attire.
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I have a criminal record. Am I eligible for the Apprenticeship Program?
If you have been convicted, found guilty or subject to proceedings for criminal or motor vehicle offences, this may affect your eligibility to be issued with an ASIC. Employment with Virgin Australia will be conditional on being eligible to hold an ASIC and if you fail to be issued with an ASIC or authority to hold an ASIC is withdrawn, withdrawal from the program or termination of your employment may result.
If you have been cautioned, warned or convicted of a criminal offence (this could include traffic or parking offences) we suggest you check whether you will be able to obtain an ASIC by visiting the CASA website.
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If I am unsuccessful for this program can I apply to future programs?
If you are unsuccessful for this program, however meet all the selection criteria, you are welcome to reapply for future programs. Opportunities to apply for future programs will be advertised on the Virgin Australia Careers website.
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I am a current Virgin Australia employee. If successful for this program will I be seconded to the training provider for the duration of my training and be employed under the terms and conditions of the Apprenticeship Program?
The aim of the Program is to commence a long-term career as an Engineer with Virgin Australia. As such, the apprenticeship positions are offered on a permanent basis only. If you are offered and accept a position, you will be employed on a permanent basis under the terms and conditions of the apprenticeship contract.
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I have read your FAQs and have some additional queries, who should I contact?
Please email groundcrewrecruitment@virginaustralia.com with any additional queries.
Industry partners
Aviation Australia is an industry Partner with Virgin Australia and offers Certificate IV in Aeroskills training programs. To find out more about course options, visit their website.
