Job Description

Date:

12 Jan 2026

Location:

Gatwick, GB

Company:

Civil Aviation Authority

Salary:

30,209 per annum

Contract Type:

2 Year Fixed Term Contract

Security Level:

BPSS - BPSS clearance

Base Location:

Gatwick (3 days per week in the office)

Visa Restrictions:

This position does not offer visa sponsorship



Here at the CAA, we are the UK's aviation and aerospace regulator and recognised as a world leader in its field. Our activities are diverse, enabling the aviation industry to meet the highest safety and security standards, and treat their passengers fairly. We pride ourselves on our ability to adapt to the constantly evolving aviation environment.



From sustainability to space, innovation to inspiration, the CAA is recognised as a world leader at the cutting edge of this exciting and ever-changing sector.



We are different. We make amazing happen and if you are about to graduate (or have graduated within the last 2 years), have a keen interest in policy and policy development, expect/have a 2:1 or above, and you could start making your very own amazing happen from September!

The Role

This role will commence in September 2026. This is a policy graduate programme.

At the CAA we offer a 2-year rotational graduate programme, providing you with the opportunity to stretch and challenge yourself across various placements focusing on policy. This is designed to nurture and develop your skills, knowledge and future potential within policy.


The graduate programme is contractually based in Aviation House, Gatwick and comprises of three eight?month rotations. To provide a well?rounded experience, placements will be in Aviation House, with 2 of the 3 opportunities rotating into the London office.

The programme will enable you to develop:

An understanding of how policy is developed implemented, and evaluated Exposure to end-to-end policy development from initial research and analysis stages through to the creation of policy documents Skills in evidence-based policy making and using data to inform policy [options and recommendations] and decision-making Conducting research and analysis to support policy development Assessing impacts and identifying risks, opportunities, and trade-offs in policy options Applying critical thinking to solve real-world regulatory challenges Writing clear, concise and persuasive materials e.g. policy papers, briefings, slide packs, consultations Project management Political awareness and understanding of legislation and regulatory frameworks Integrity, impartiality, and commitment to public value Adaptability and resilience in a fast-changing policy environment

Our Development Commitment To You

We are committed to supporting your growth and success as you begin your professional journey. Our graduate development promise includes:

1. Structured Onboarding

We will provide a comprehensive induction program to help you understand our culture, values, and expectations, ensuring a smooth transition into your graduate programme.

2. Continuous Learning

You will have access to tailored training programs, workshops, and digital learning resources to develop both technical and soft skills relevant to your career path.

3. Mentorship and Guidance

We will pair you with mentors to support your professional development and confidence.

4. Feedback and Support

You will receive regular performance reviews and constructive feedback to help you achieve your goals and maximise your potential.

5. Well-being and Inclusion

We are committed to creating an inclusive, supportive environment that prioritizes your well-being and encourages collaboration and innovation.

Post Programme

We provide opportunities to deepen your understanding of policy through practical projects and developmental assignments, positioning you for a Policy Specialist role at the end of the graduate scheme.

What We Need From You

Please apply to the link provided with your CV, we would also like you to complete a cover letter including answers to the following questions:



Why are you interested in working for the CAA?

What is it about the Policy graduate scheme that appeals to you?

What do you think you can bring to this role?



We will be shortlisting for the position at the beginning of February 2026 and reaching out to the successful shortlist of candidates to complete psychometric testing.

Additional Information

For many appointments within the CAA, these roles require access to operationally sensitive infrastructure and/or Nationally Protected information. For these roles the post holders must undergo National Security Vetting and achieve the appropriate level of clearance.

BPSS -

To be vetted you must have the right to work in the UK so that meaningful checks can be undertaken.

If you do not meet these requirements, we may not be able to accept your application.

For more information on BPSS clearance please visit - BPSS clearance


The CAA values high ethical standards and personal integrity among employees. If invited for interview you will be asked to complete a declaration of interest.

Relocation & Property

The CAA will be relocating from Aviation House (Our Gatwick Office) to new premises in a few years' time. Our move is driven by strategic, operational and environmental considerations.


We will be moving to a new local home, up to a 15-mile radius of Aviation House, to minimise disruption for our valued colleagues and customers.


We are now working with colleagues and visitors to understand what we need in our new office, before we start our property search. We will sell Aviation House and land, vacate the site and move to new premises, but we do not expect to move before 2028

Inclusivity

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and celebrate our diversity ensuring all are backgrounds included here at the CAA. As a member of the Disability Confident scheme, applicants who meet the minimum criteria for a role with us will be guaranteed an interview.

Our Benefits

We offer a range of excellent benefits such as:


28 days annual leave + public holidays (additional 5 days leave purchase scheme) Generous pension scheme (Up to 12% employer contribution) Wellbeing Room at Gatwick Mental Health and Suicide First Aiders Flexible & hybrid working arrangements available Employee Assistance Programme, talking therapies and neurodiversity support via Occupational Health & access to Headspace for colleagues and 5 dependents Free onsite gym at Gatwick or discounted gym membership for London EV charging points Employee Development courses internally and via Skillsoft

Use of Artificial Intelligence by candidates in the CAA recruitment process

We recognise that many of our candidates find Artificial Intelligence to be a useful tool to support your application, however, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified (presenting the ideas and experiences of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, as your own) applications may be rejected on that basis.

Our Values

Do The Right Thing, Never Stop Learning, Build Collaborative Relationships, Respect Everyone -

Closing Date:

Sunday 1st February 2026

Psychometric Testing:

W/C Monday 9th February 2026

Assessment Centres:

Wednesday 18th or Wednesday 25th March 2026 - please note the assessment centres will take place at our Gatwick offices.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

No recruitment agencies please.

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