Careers

Take your career to the next level

Are you ambitious and looking for your next challenge? Looking for a better work/life balance?
It’s time to join our team

We want to attract and work with innovative, adaptable and proactive people to help us achieve One Mission as One Team

We offer the opportunity to work in a flexible, fast paced and evolving environment, whether you are based at our Bristol Training Hub, or one of our training sites.

We live our Cultural Values of Teamwork, Integrity, Courage, and Accountability & Empowerment. These values are built on respect—for our employees, partners, and customers — so diversity and inclusion are core to everything we do. We believe that by embracing different perspectives, we unlock creative thinking that drives our business forward.

Why Ascent?

At Ascent, we offer a competitive salary and benefits package, including 25 days holiday, flexible working, pension, private medical and dental cover and a strong focus on personal growth and development.

We provide a stable work schedule, and you may even participate in significant national events like the King’s Birthday Fly Past or represent us at the Royal International Air Tattoo. Our Bristol-based roles offer flexible hybrid working options, and we support all employees with family-friendly policies and development opportunities, including our Future Leadership Programme.

We prioritise mental health and wellbeing, fostering a trusted and inclusive environment where everyone feels they belong.

We are committed to equal opportunity for all.

Our benefits

 

At Ascent, we believe people do their best work when they feel supported in all aspects of life – at work, at home, and everywhere in between. Our benefits are designed to promote wellbeing, growth, and a healthy balance, while supporting you through the moments that matter.

 

 

Work-life balance

We know flexibility is essential. Our policies and benefits help you shape a working life that suits you.

  • 25 days’ annual leave (plus bank holidays)
  • Holiday trading – buy or sell up to 5 days of annual leave each year
  • Additional holiday awarded for length of service (up to 5 days)
  • Flexible working options (hours, location, job share)

Health and wellbeing

Your health matters. We offer comprehensive cover and wellbeing resources for you and your family.

  • AXA Private Medical Insurance for you and your family
  • Life assurance – up to 3× your annual salary
  • Pension scheme – up to 6% matched contribution
  • Bupa Dental Insurance (optional elective benefit)
  • GymFlex – discounted gym and fitness memberships
  • Cycle2Work scheme
  • Eye test every two years + £55 contribution towards glasses
  • Unmind wellbeing platform for you and one other
  • Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) with emotional and legal support

Support for you and your family

We offer generous support for growing families and for life’s more challenging moments.

  • Enhanced maternity pay – up to 6 months full pay (after 1 year of service)
  • Enhanced partner pay – up to 4 weeks full pay (after 1 year of service)
  • IVF support – up to 5 days paid leave per treatment cycle
  • Enhanced sick pay – rising to 6 months with length of service
  • Up to 10 days compassionate leave
  • EV Salary Sacrifice Car Scheme
  • Free on-site parking

Growth and opportunity

We’re committed to helping you develop your skills and build a meaningful career.

  • Annual development reviews
  • Access to role‑specific training and continuous learning
  • L3 and L5 Transformational Leadership Programmes for current and aspiring managers
Richard Thorpe
“One of the biggest draws to this job having left a long career in the Royal Navy, was the focus purely on teaching and instructing aviation. Every day is different, as I could be instructing in the aircraft, simulator or classroom, and often a combination of all three. Clearly, with a passion for flying, and with 750 Naval Air Squadron’s primary purpose being to train and generate the next generation of rear-crew, I most look forward to flying in our King Air Avengers.”
Richard Thorpe
London’s Air Ambulance Charity
“Ascent’s expertise and advanced training resources will be invaluable in ensuring our pilots are well-prepared to operate the new Airbus H135 helicopters. This collaboration will undoubtedly help us continue delivering rapid response and cutting-edge care to critically injured individuals across London. We are grateful for Ascent’s support and look forward to a successful partnership.”
London’s Air Ambulance Charity
Bristow
“Ascent’s experience will help ensure technical crews new to aviation have the right technical language and knowledge, ensuring teams work seamlessly and perform to the highest standards.”
Bristow

What will make you successful?

Excellence: You thrive working with people of all levels +
  • Achieving service excellence
  • Delivering business results
  • Inspiring high performance
  • Leading & motivating
  • Optimising productivity & efficiency
Flexibility: Solving our customers’ challenges +
  • Adapting to change
  • Anticipating, planning & prioritising
  • Decision-making & judgement
  • Leading innovation & change
  • Practical problem-solving
Growth mind-set +
  • Building team capability
  • Maximising business opportunity
  • Passion for learning & developing others
  • Strategic thinking & direction
Building sustainable relationships +
  • Engaging & influencing
  • Maintaining resilience
  • Working collaboratively

Latest vacancies

  • All (10)
  • RAF Valley (4)
  • RNAS Culdrose (3)
  • RAF Shawbury (2)
  • Training Hub (1)
Contact us today

BFT Qualified Instructor (Talent Pool)

RAF Valley Closing date: 31 Dec 2027

Job Description

We’re building a talent pool for Basic Flying Training (BFT) Qualified Flying Instructors (QFIs) and Qualified Instructors (QIs) at RAF Valley, ensuring we have the right people ready to step into key roles as they become available.

Why Join the Talent Pool? RAF Valley is home to fast-paced, high-impact flying training. By joining our talent pool, you’ll be first in line when opportunities arise to deliver world-class instruction in a dynamic and rewarding environment.

How It Works:

  • Apply and Interview: If successful, you’ll be added to our talent pool for up to 12 months.
  • Stay Notified: As roles open, we’ll contact you based on your availability and our operational needs.
  • Confirm Your Interest: You’ll have the opportunity to express interest before any formal offer is made.

Who We’re Looking For:

  • Experienced pilots with a passion for developing military aviators of the future.
  • Aircrew who thrive in structured, high-tempo training environments.
  • Professionals committed to safety, precision, and instructional excellence.

Ready to shape the future of military aviation at Valley? Apply now to be considered for upcoming instructor roles and help us maintain the highest standards in flying training.

A day in the life

As a Qualified Instructor on the Basic Flying Training (BFT) Squadron at RAF Valley you will part of a small niche team delivering world class Ground School and Synthetic training to Military and Ascent aircrew on the Texan T1.

You will

  • Conduct ground based instruction of military BFT Student Qualified Flying Instructors (SQFIs), ab-initio pilots in accordance with BFT syllabuses. The syllabus ranges from conversion, instrument, navigation, weapon profiles, tactical and more advanced evolutions.
  • You will also assist in currency training for existing QFIs.
  • Conduct Computer Based Training/Computer Aided Instruction/Simulator training, including ground school lessons and simulated airborne events in accordance with BFT syllabuses
  • Conduct other tasks related to Texan T1 training as directed
  • Assist Curriculum Design as Texan T1 Subject Matter Expert (SME) in development and maintenance of BFT courseware
  • Have the opportunity to take part in innovation work for the future of UK MFTS

What will make you successful?

You will have previous experience as a Qualified Flying Instructor pilot in the military environment. Qualifications and/or recommendations from the RAF Central Flying School will be essential.

Previous experience in a ‘Basic Flying Training’ role on a turbo-prop airframe would be extremely advantageous and experience in a synthetic training device would be beneficial but not necessarily essential.

Above all else you will thrive when instructing students and helping them to strive for success.

You should already be an excellent communicator and you will be accustomed to working with different levels of ability so that you can nurture the full spectrum of students. You will be working in an environment which is heavily customer focused, ensuring the company provides a first class service at all times.

And you will also:

  • Have experience of multi-facetted flying disciplines, combining leadership and airmanship to provide a positive learning environment.
  • Be able to demonstrate experience of working in collaboration with other teams.
  • Have strong presentational skills, targeting a wide audience of varying abilities.
  • Be able to develop and update courseware with emerging ‘best practise’ and updates as required.
  • Fully engage with the RAF Safety Culture.



View full job description

BFT Qualified Flying Instructor (Talent Pool)

RAF Valley Closing date: 31 Dec 2027

Job Description

We’re building a talent pool for Basic Flying Training (BFT) Qualified Flying Instructors (QFIs) and Qualified Instructors (QIs) at RAF Valley, ensuring we have the right people ready to step into key roles as they become available.

Why Join the Talent Pool? RAF Valley is home to fast-paced, high-impact flying training. By joining our talent pool, you’ll be first in line when opportunities arise to deliver world-class instruction in a dynamic and rewarding environment.

How It Works:

  • Apply and Interview: If successful, you’ll be added to our talent pool for up to 12 months.
  • Stay Notified: As roles open, we’ll contact you based on your availability and our operational needs.
  • Confirm Your Interest: You’ll have the opportunity to express interest before any formal offer is made.

Who We’re Looking For:

  • Experienced pilots with a passion for developing military aviators of the future.
  • Aircrew who thrive in structured, high-tempo training environments.
  • Professionals committed to safety, precision, and instructional excellence.

Ready to shape the future of military aviation at Valley? Apply now to be considered for upcoming instructor roles and help us maintain the highest standards in flying training.

A Little bit about us

Ascent Flight Training is an established, yet growing aerospace and training company which operates across the UK, delivering flying training services to the UK Government.

We want to attract and work with innovative, adaptable and proactive people to help us achieve One Mission as One Team.

We offer the opportunity to work in a professional, dynamic and diverse environment within our Training Support Hub and on our operations sites.

You will bring proficiency and experience to an environment where your contribution is valued.u


A day in the life of an Ascent BFT QFI

As a Qualified Flying Instructor on the Basic Flying Training (BFT) Squadron at RAF Valley you will part of a small niche team delivering world class flying training to Military and Ascent aircrew on the Texan TMk1.

You will

*  Instruct relevant aspects of the BFT syllabus to high instructional standards.

·       The majority of the role focuses on delivering airborne instruction but it may also include the delivery of phase briefs, technical lessons, practical demonstrations and synthetic events.

 

*  Conduct other tasks related to Texan TMk1 training as directed.

 

*  Assist Curriculum Design as Texan TMk1 Subject Matter Expert (SME) in development and maintenance of BFT courseware.

 

*  Have the opportunity to take part in innovation work for the future of UK MFTS.

What will make you successful?

You will have previous experience as a Qualified Flying Instructor pilot in the military environment. Qualifications and/or recommendations from the RAF Central Flying School will be essential.

 

Previous experience in a ‘Basic Flying Training’ role on a turbo-prop airframe would be extremely advantageous.

 

Above all else you will thrive when instructing students and helping them to strive for success.

 

You should already be an excellent communicator and you will be accustomed to working with different levels of ability so that you can nurture the full spectrum of students. You will be working in an environment which is heavily customer focused, ensuring the company provides a first class service at all times.

 

And you will also:

  • Have experience of multi-facetted flying disciplines, combining leadership and airmanship to provide a positive learning environment.
  • Be able to demonstrate experience of working in collaboration with other teams.
  • Have strong presentational skills, targeting a wide audience of varying abilities.
  • Be able to develop and update courseware with emerging ‘best practise’ and updates as required.
  • Fully engage with the RAF Safety Culture.

What can we offer in return

·       Equivalent to 25 days leave annual leave  

·       Private Health Care

·       Flexible benefits

·       Enhanced family friendly benefits

·       Competitive salary

·       Pension plan

·       Secure onsite employee parking  


View full job description

Safety & Technical Assurance Manager (RAF Valley)

RAF Valley Closing date: 07 Sep 2026

Job Description



A day in the life of an Safety & Technical Assurance Manager

As Safety & Technical Assurance Manager you will be part of a diverse function, embedded into one of our operational sites. In this unique role, you will have the opportunity as an independent team member to work closely with our customer, supply chain, and operational delivery team and make a significant impact to our business and services.

Within the site, you will build strong relationships built upon trust with our key stakeholders to ensure:

o Safety of our combined operations;

o Operational risk is effectively understood, managed, and mitigated;

o Effective collaborative working to drive an enterprise safety and performance culture; and

o Clear communication of successes, issues, risks, and opportunities based on objective facts.

More broadly, working as part of the team, you will:

o Support the wider team with the sharing of best practice across sites; and

o Contribute to continuous improvement programmes to enhance the standardisation and effectiveness of our Safety Management and Quality Management Systems; and

o provide independent safety and technical support to our on-site operational teams.


What will make you successful?

You will already have a strong background in Aircraft Maintenance Repair and Overhaul or Continuing Airworthiness Management within a management or leadership roles and should have a detailed understanding and practical experience of Air Safety Management.

You will thrive in an environment where building trust and strong relationships is critical to obtaining transparency and an enterprise just and fair safety and performance culture. As well as being effective operating within a team, you will be comfortable working autonomously and retaining an independent perspective. You will have strong communication skills and the ICT literacy to develop clear and concise factual reports that can inform effective decision making.

And you will also:

o Have experience of undertaking robust safety risk assessments, underpinned by data;

o A thorough understanding of civil and military aviation, knowledge of CAP 562 Lft B-40 advantageous; and

o Have accomplished planning skills and the ability to support collaborative plans in a complex environment


This role is full time, 40 hours per week and provides a stable Monday to Friday work schedule.

This role requires the successful candidate to obtain Security Check (SC) clearance.

We’re proud to foster a flexible and inclusive workplace where diverse perspectives are valued. Whether working onsite or remotely, we support a culture that encourages collaboration, individuality and work-life balance. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We are open to considering flexible working arrangements for all roles, including part-time hours, job share, and alternative working patterns, and we encourage conversations about individual needs during the recruitment process. We are actively working to remove barriers within our hiring practices and aim to provide a fair, accessible and supportive experience for every candidate. If you require any adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know and we will be happy to support you.

View full job description

Shawbury – Qualified Helicopter Instructor

RAF Shawbury Closing date: 31 Dec 2026

Job Description

A day in the life of an Ascent QHI

As a QHI you will be a part of a dedicated cadre of Instructors with a CFS accredited B1 (or higher) instructional category and work with our military partners to prepare military trainees for the front line. You will use state of the art synthetic training devices and fly the latest generation of the Airbus H135 and H145 as part of your daily routine. If you wish to be a part of this fulfilling, interesting and challenging task please read on to find out more details of this exciting role.

You will:

  • Conduct ground theory lessons in the form of mass briefings.
  • Instruct basic and advanced techniques using various cutting edge synthetic devices.
  • Instruct on one of the courses of increasing complexity. These range from the ab-initio course that teaches basic flying techniques to the specific tactical courses of each 3 services.
  • Where required support crewman courses by flying the aircraft for their specific syllabus sorties.
  • Supervise flying and be a part of the ‘Just’ flight safety culture at RAF Shawbury.
  • Drive continuous improvement in courseware and all other aspects of your working environment.




What will make you successful?

You will already be qualified as a Qualified Helicopter Instructor (QHI) from your previous employment in the UK military, or have a CFS(H) recommend for the QHI cse.  You will deliver the highest standard of instruction using the latest synthetic and aircraft technology to develop the next generation of service pilot. In doing so you will have the opportunity to hone and progress your instructional skills in order to upgrade where appropriate or consolidate your instructional category on the new aircraft type. You will thrive amongst our QHI cadre and build a good relationship with our military partners to ensure the trainees benefit from a smooth transition through each course.

You will thoroughly enjoy being back in a Squadron environment, and being part of a team where your hard work can be seen in the progression of the trainees as you will be preparing them at such an early stage of their career. You will know the importance of being able to work successfully in situations that can often be pressured.

And you will also:

  • Have a civilian Class 1 medical or military Annual Medical.
  • Be able to demonstrate your instructional pedigree and experience.
  • Have strong communication skills, be able to build relationships to work in collaboration with teams across the organisation.
  • Have strong presentation skills, targeting a wide audience from customers to internal stakeholders.
  • Be able to demonstrate courage and the ability to solve problems and make decisions.
  • Be responsible for continuous development and creation of courseware.




Salary Information: Fully Qualified Salary is £87,852. Training Salary is £72,204





View full job description

Valley – Maritime Qualified Helicopter Instructor

RAF Valley Closing date: 31 Dec 2026

Job Description

A day in the life of a Maritime Helicopter Instructor

As one of our team of Maritime Helicopter Instructors you will be part of an experienced, hardworking and dedicated team operating in a challenging maritime environment where no day is the same. Your diverse role will require a wide range of skills.
You will build relationships with our trainees and stakeholders across all areas of the business, customer and supplier organisations to ensure the efficient delivery of airborne and synthetic Rotary Wing Training as part of the UK Military Flying Training System. Your opinion will be valued as we develop our courses to meet the customer’s requirements.
If you are interested in joining our exceptional team, keep reading to find out more details on this exciting role.
You will:
  • Teach all aspects of the Rotary Wing Maritime (Winching) Syllabus, by delivering phase briefs, technical lessons, practical demonstrations using state of the art synthetic equipment and airborne sorties.
  • Assess trainees by ensuring that syllabus sorties are graded, sortie report forms and end of course documentation is completed.
  • Assist in a process of continuous development to create new lessons while maintaining and improving those already established.
  • Assist the Chief Maritime Instructor with any other tasks to support Ascent business continuity and resilience.
  • Embrace Ascent’s One Team ethos and Total Safety culture.
What will make you successful?

You will already have experience in the Military Rotary Wing environment. You will thrive when working with our trainees, stakeholders and customers across all levels, coupled with your ability to truly understand our trainees. You will have a passion for delivering a world class military flying training system to achieve one mission, as one team. 
You will be excited by working in an environment where efficient solutions are the answer, being able to navigate both yourself and stakeholders to a positive solution. You will know the importance of being able to work successfully in situations that can often be pressured, where your initiative and flexibility will be recognised.


 You will also:
  • Hold medical fitness to conduct the role, either Civilian Class 1 or Military PME and achieve Underwater Escape Training certification
  • Have a minimum of 1000 hours Rotary Wing flying experience
  • Have experience of flying in a Maritime environment
  • Be competent in the use of computer programmes such as Windows, Microsoft Office Suite and Explore.

It would be great, however not essential, if you:
  • Hold a recognised instructional category as a current/former military QHI or equivalent
  • Have some experience of ab-initio training
  • Have some experience as a Helicopter Captain in the Maritime environment
  • Have some experience of Rotary Wing synthetic training.


Salary Information: Fully Qualified Salary is £91,577. Training Salary is £78,212


View full job description

QSMAI – WSO

RNAS Culdrose Closing date: 30 Sep 2026

Job Description

As a Qualified Synthetic Mission Aircrew Weapons Systems Officer (QSMAI – WSO) Instructor, you will be joining Ascent at a very exciting time as we progress the implementation of the Future ISTAR Rear Crew Training System (FIRCTS).

 

Initially you will be seconded to the Training Design Team where you will use your specialist knowledge to develop advanced courseware, bespoke training solutions utilising advanced training equipment and high-fidelity mission simulator exercises.

 

Following your time with the Training Design Team, (TDT) you will progress to the Development and Test Team (DTT) to bring your expertise to bear on this crucial update for our training system and aircraft.

 

During this period, you will build relationships with stakeholders in FIRCTS including the existing cadre of pilots and instructors at 750 Naval Air Squadron (750NAS) at RNAS Culdrose and similarly with 45 Squadron and Ascent colleagues at Culdrose.

 You will be a key part of the implementation of and transition to FIRCTS; using your knowledge of and qualification on the new mission system and sensors to convert the existing team to the new aircraft, ground-based training equipment (GBTE) and courseware.

  Following the transition, you will become a member of the FIRCTS instructor cadre and training ab initio trainees at 750 NAS, RNAS Culdrose. When you will  deliver high quality synthetic and classroom instruction and act as a professional mentor to trainees, enabling them to achieve the required standard in the specialism they are pursuing, within optimum timescales. Also contribute to the continuous improvement of the overall training service, and work with Ascent colleagues on wider business development initiatives as required.

 You will have the opportunity to experience a wide range of working routines whilst in TDT and the DTT including, travel to sites, working from home and regular contact with 750 NAS and 45 Sqn. With a broad range of work developing and testing courseware, Instructor and trainee guides and getting to know and fully understand the new equipment and training system.

 If you are interested in joining our exceptional team, keep reading to find out more details on this exciting role.

 You will:

 ·         Initially become a member of the Training Design Team.

 ·         Form the leading edge of the technical advice to the DTT

 ·         Work in partnership with our customer, Aircrew Training Specialists and our Media and Courseware team and other stakeholders to ensure that the FIRCTS programme is successful.

 ·         Be part of a team that will lead the implementation and conversion to the new system.

 ·         Become part of the mission aircrew training team based at Culdrose, as a synthetic and ground instructor, offering a diverse set of specialist courses.

 Skills, Knowledge & Experience:

·         Previous experience as Combat Ready Mission Aircrew.

·         Previous military experience as a Qualified Weapon Systems Officer – (WSO) Instructor or equivalent, with Central Flying School B1 Category or higher.


This role is full time, 40 hours per week and provides a stable Monday to Friday work schedule.
We require the successful candidate to obtain Security Check (SC) clearance.

We’re proud to foster a flexible and inclusive workplace where diverse perspectives are valued. Whether working onsite or remotely, we support a culture that encourages collaboration, individuality and work-life balance. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We are open to considering flexible working arrangements for all roles, including part-time hours, job share, and alternative working patterns, and we encourage conversations about individual needs during the recruitment process. We are actively working to remove barriers within our hiring practices and aim to provide a fair, accessible and supportive experience for every candidate. If you require any adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know and we will be happy to support you.
View full job description

QMAI – WSO

RNAS Culdrose Closing date: 30 Sep 2026

Job Description

Qualified Mission Aircrew Instructor, Weapon Systems Officer (QMAI WSO)



As a Qualified Mission Aircrew Instructor, Weapon Systems Officer (QMAI WSO) you will be joining Ascent at a very exciting time as we progress the implementation of the Future ISTAR Rear Crew Training System (FIRCTS).

Initially you will be seconded to the Development and Test Team (DTT) where you will use your specialist knowledge to develop advanced courseware, bespoke training solutions utilising advanced training equipment and high-fidelity mission simulator exercises.

During this period, you will build relationships with stakeholders in FIRCTS including the existing cadre of pilots and instructors at 750 Naval Air Squadron (750NAS) at RNAS Culdrose and similarly with 45 Squadron and Ascent colleagues at RAF Cranwell.

You will be a key part of the implementation of and transition to FIRCTS; using your knowledge of and qualification on the new mission system and sensors to convert the existing team to the new aircraft, ground-based training equipment (GBTE) and courseware.



Following the transition, you will become a member of the FIRCTS instructor cadre and training ab initio trainees at 750 NAS, RNAS Culdrose. When you will  deliver high quality synthetic and classroom instruction and act as a professional mentor to trainees, enabling them to achieve the required standard in the specialism they are pursuing, within optimum timescales. Also contribute to the continuous improvement of the overall training service, and work with Ascent colleagues on wider business development initiatives as required.

You will have the opportunity to experience a wide range of working routines whilst in TDT and the DTT including, travel to sites, working from home and regular contact with 750 NAS and 45 Sqn. With a broad range of work developing and testing courseware, Instructor and trainee guides and getting to know and fully understand the new equipment and training system.



If you are interested in joining our exceptional team, keep reading to find out more details on this exciting role.

You will:

·         Initially become a member of the Training Design Team.

·         Form the leading edge of the technical advice to the DTT

·         Work in partnership with our customer, Aircrew Training Specialists and our Media and Courseware team and other stakeholders to ensure that the FIRCTS programme is successful.

·         Be part of a team that will lead the implementation and conversion to the new system.

·         Become part of the mission aircrew training team based at Culdrose, as an air instructor, offering a diverse set of specialist courses.

 

Skills, Knowledge & Experience:

·         Previous experience as Combat Ready Mission Aircrew.

·         Previous military experience as a Qualified Weapon Systems Officer – (WSO) Instructor or equivalent, with Central Flying School B1 Category or higher.



This role is full time, 40 hours per week and provides a stable Monday to Friday work schedule.

We require the successful candidate to obtain Security Check (SC) clearance.


We’re proud to foster a flexible and inclusive workplace where diverse perspectives are valued. Whether working onsite or remotely, we support a culture that encourages collaboration, individuality and work-life balance. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We are open to considering flexible working arrangements for all roles, including part-time hours, job share, and alternative working patterns, and we encourage conversations about individual needs during the recruitment process. We are actively working to remove barriers within our hiring practices and aim to provide a fair, accessible and supportive experience for every candidate. If you require any adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know and we will be happy to support you.

View full job description

QMAI – ISR

RNAS Culdrose Closing date: 30 Sep 2026

Job Description

As a Qualified Mission Aircrew Instructor – Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance (QMAI ISR) you will be joining Ascent at a very exciting time as we progress the implementation of the Future ISTAR Rear Crew Training System (FIRCTS).

 

Initially you will be seconded to the Development and Test Team (DTT) where you will use your specialist knowledge to develop advanced courseware, bespoke training solutions utilising advanced training equipment and high-fidelity mission simulator exercises.

During this period, you will build relationships with stakeholders in FIRCTS including the existing cadre of pilots and instructors at 750 Naval Air Squadron (750NAS) at RNAS Culdrose and similarly with 45 Squadron and Ascent colleagues at RAF Cranwell.

You will be a key part of the implementation of and transition to FIRCTS; using your knowledge of and qualification on the new mission system and sensors to convert the existing team to the new aircraft, ground-based training equipment (GBTE) and courseware.

 

Following the transition, you will become a member of the FIRCTS instructor cadre and training ab initio trainees at 750 NAS, RNAS Culdrose. When you will  deliver high quality synthetic and classroom instruction and act as a professional mentor to trainees, enabling them to achieve the required standard in the specialism they are pursuing, within optimum timescales. Also contribute to the continuous improvement of the overall training service, and work with Ascent colleagues on wider business development initiatives as required.

You will have the opportunity to experience a wide range of working routines whilst in TDT and the DTT including, travel to sites, working from home and regular contact with 750 NAS and 45 Sqn. With a broad range of work developing and testing courseware, Instructor and trainee guides and getting to know and fully understand the new equipment and training system.

 

If you are interested in joining our exceptional team, keep reading to find out more details on this exciting role.

 

 You will:

·         Initially become a member of the Training Design Team.

·         Form the leading edge of the technical advice to the DTT

·         Work in partnership with our customer, Aircrew Training Specialists and our Media and Courseware team and other stakeholders to ensure that the FIRCTS programme is successful.

·         Be part of a team that will lead the implementation and conversion to the new system.

 ·        Become part of the mission aircrew training team based at Culdrose, as an air instructor, offering a diverse set of specialist courses.

 

Skills, Knowledge & Experience:

·         Previous experience as Combat Ready Mission Aircrew.

·         Previous military experience as ISR Mission Aircrew Instructor or equivalent, with Central Flying School B1 Category or higher.


This role is full time, 40 hours per week and provides a stable Monday to Friday work schedule.

We require the successful candidate to obtain Security Check (SC) clearance.


We’re proud to foster a flexible and inclusive workplace where diverse perspectives are valued. Whether working onsite or remotely, we support a culture that encourages collaboration, individuality and work-life balance. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We are open to considering flexible working arrangements for all roles, including part-time hours, job share, and alternative working patterns, and we encourage conversations about individual needs during the recruitment process. We are actively working to remove barriers within our hiring practices and aim to provide a fair, accessible and supportive experience for every candidate. If you require any adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know and we will be happy to support you.

View full job description

Junior People & Culture Partner

Training Hub Closing date: 18 Sep 2026

Job Description

We are looking for a proactive and people focused Junior People & Culture Partner to join our team. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is a self-starter ready to move beyond transactional HR and develop as a trusted business partner.

You’ll partner with managers, help shape and deliver people plans that enable business performance, organisational capability and employee engagement. You’ll combine strong operational knowledge with a strategic mindset, using data, insight and relationship-building to influence decisions and deliver meaningful outcomes.

You’ll have the opportunity to work on a broad range of strategic people initiatives while acting as the first point of contact for leaders within your business area.

What You’ll Be Doing (Day to Day)

Provide professional HR advice and guidance to managers on employee relations matters, policies and employment legislation. 

Support and manage employee relations cases, including absence management, performance, disciplinary, grievance and capability matters. 

Coach managers to build confidence and capability in leading their teams effectively. 

Partner with business leaders to deliver people plans aligned to operational objectives. 

Support organisational change activities, including restructures, consultations and business transformation initiatives. 

Use people data and insights to identify trends, risks and opportunities for improvement.

Support recruitment activity and workforce planning within your business area. 

Deliver manager training and guidance on key people processes and policies. 

Support talent management and succession planning activities. 

Champion employee wellbeing, engagement and diversity, inclusion and belonging initiatives. 

Build effective relationships with a wide range of stakeholders. 

Lead or contribute to people projects and continuous improvement initiatives. 


What will make you successful in the role of Junior People & Culture Partner:


Strong HR Knowledge

Experience in a generalist HR role with exposure to partnering senior stakeholders.

Experience handling employee relations cases with limited supervision.

Understanding of employment law, ACAS code and HR best practice.

CIPD Level 5 or equivalent experience.


Great Communicator & Relationship Builder

Excellent relationship-building skills and the ability to establish credibility with stakeholders at all levels.

Confidence to influence, coach and challenge managers constructively.

Good organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.

Strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret people data and trends.


Your Approach

You’ll be someone who:

Builds trust and credibility quickly.

Is independent and self-assured in their HR expertise.

Is a great team player.

Enjoys finding practical solutions to people challenges.

Is passionate about creating a positive employee experience.

Embraces change and continuously looks for ways to improve processes and ways of working.

Makes balanced decisions that consider both people and business needs.

Takes ownership, follows through on commitments and delivers results.

Finally, if you feel that you don’t meet all the criteria included above but have transferable skills and relevant experience, we’d still love to hear from you!

This role is full time, working 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday. (9 in 10 working pattern) This role is based at our Training Hub in Bristol, and the role requires regular travel to other locations, so a full UK driving licence is essential.

Please note that many roles within Ascent Flight Training are subject to strict security restrictions. These may affect your eligibility based on factors such as, your nationality (current and former), place of birth or residency history. All applicants must, at a minimum, meet the Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). In addition, many positions require higher levels of National Security Vetting, which typically demand more thorough background checks. This role requires the successful candidate to obtain Security Check (SC) clearance. For further details, please refer to the official guidance on United Kingdom Security Vetting: clearance levels – GOV.UK.

We’re proud to foster a flexible and inclusive workplace where diverse perspectives are valued. Whether working onsite or remotely, we support a culture that encourages collaboration, individuality and work-life balance. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We are open to considering flexible working arrangements for all roles, including part-time hours, job share, and alternative working patterns, and we encourage conversations about individual needs during the recruitment process. We are actively working to remove barriers within our hiring practices and aim to provide a fair, accessible and supportive experience for every candidate. If you require any adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know and we will be happy to support you.
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General Manager – RAF Shawbury

RAF Shawbury Closing date: 15 Sep 2026

Job Description

As the General Manager for our Rotary Wing (RW) services, you will be fully accountable to the Operations Director for the management of a business with annual revenues exceeding £50m, £500m of operational assets under management, and over 100 direct and in-direct employees.

You will:

Provide Exceptional Levels of Leadership. You will inherit a large and multi-functional team spread over two operational sites, collocated with our Military end-user and strategic supplier, and need to brief up to 1* level military stakeholders. Familiarity and an ability to provide leadership in this environment and in a style that resonates with our military colleagues is an absolute necessity. You will need to be able to focus on leading in this environment whilst simultaneously ensuring alignment with wider business strategy and boundaries, whilst always focusing on delivering win/win strategic and operational outcomes.

Build High Performing, Scalable, and Sustainable Teams. You will need a people-centric focus and the ability to build, retain, and develop high performing teams; people and capability development; effective succession planning; and people development. You will need to be able to execute this in an environment with a combination of unionised and non-unionised groups.

Drive Strong Business and Operational Performance. This role requires you to take full P&L responsibility for a business with variable ‘performance-based’ revenues. You will need solid experience in business and operational leadership with key skills in cost control, risk management, investment appraisal, operations and supplier management, and effective communication.

Create Growth and Lead Change. You will be joining the business at an exciting time. The business is growing with strong growth on the agenda, supported by multiple change projects to optimise our ways of working, scalability, and efficiency. You will need to be an accomplished leader of change, support and implement central initiatives into your business, and leverage this for meaningful growth in the rotary market.

What will make you successful?

Above all, this role is about people – a service business with a large team and engaged customers and supplier all co-located. You will be a seasoned and experienced leader of people, a confident and effective communicator, love leading and engaging with teams, and be able to build strong and long-lasting relationships.

Aside from people, you will already have experience in senior leadership roles with full P&L accountability and will have a track record of delivering complex operations or services in a highly regulated and commercial environment. 

Whilst not essential, a background in Defence & Aerospace will be a huge advantage, as will experience working closely with senior military leaders.

You will also:

Have high levels of business acumen and focus – (strategy, operations management, finance, commercial and contracts, supply chains, and risk management).
Have a proven capacity for leading businesses and teams to achieve consistent high levels of performance and engagement, aligned with core business strategy.
Have produced growth and margin increase in previous businesses.
Have proven track-record of stakeholder management and effective collaboration to create win-win outcomes at senior levels with strategic customers and suppliers.
Have strong customer services skills – a passion for exceeding their expectations and working in a true partnership.

This role is full time, 40 hours per week and provides a stable Monday to Friday work schedule.

This role requires the successful candidate to obtain Security Check (SC) clearance.

We’re proud to foster a flexible and inclusive workplace where diverse perspectives are valued. Whether working onsite or remotely, we support a culture that encourages collaboration, individuality and work-life balance. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We are open to considering flexible working arrangements for all roles, including part-time hours, job share, and alternative working patterns, and we encourage conversations about individual needs during the recruitment process. We are actively working to remove barriers within our hiring practices and aim to provide a fair, accessible and supportive experience for every candidate. If you require any adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know and we will be happy to support you.
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Work experience

Offering up to a week-long placement, you’ll have hands-on experience across various teams at Ascent, setting the stage for a successful career journey. Apply now and take the first step towards an exhilarating future with us. We offer work experience in the following locations: Cranwell, Valley, Shawbury, Culdrose and Bristol.

This is predominantly aimed at supporting secondary school or people in an education facility, with understanding of what the working world has to offer and experience. We will review all requested dates and may consolidate those that are more frequently selected. If your requested date significantly differs from the majority, we may reach out to discuss alternative options.

Want to know more about working for Ascent?

Contact us today