Maintenance Engineer Apprentice– Level 3 Advanced

Please note, when clicking through to apply, the job title will display as Control and Instrumental Maintenance Apprentice– Level 3 Advanced but reflects the same position.

About AWE

Our work is critical. We are responsible for delivering the next warhead for the UK’s nuclear deterrent; working at the forefront of nuclear technologies that keep the nation safe.

AWE’s support for the government’s strategy takes many facets: from supporting the weapon programme for the nuclear deterrent, supporting the UK’s counter terrorist programme, identifying where there may be nuclear tests taking place around the world, and building an expert group of individuals in order to give the UK real depth in nuclear science and technology.

Start an extraordinary career at AWE; grow your skills, learn from industry experts and become part of a community at one of the most unique companies in the UK.

About the role

Control and Instrumentation (C&I) is one of the critical professions at AWE, playing a vital role in our mission to keep the nation safe and secure. As a C&I engineer, you will work on systems that measure and control various processes essential to our operations.

C&I engineers develop and maintain systems that monitor and adjust different aspects of complex operations, such as the flow of water, or the temperature of a room, or the controlling and operating of our Orion LASER system. Your role will involve creating, simplifying, and automating these processes to ensure they function safely & seamlessly at the touch of a button.

During your apprenticeship, you will learn how to:

• Work with advanced measurement systems that monitor pressure, level, flow, temperature, and more.
• Develop and implement control systems that adjust processes based on these measurements.
• Utilise both hardware and software to design, automate, and maintain machinery and processes.

If you are passionate about technology and are eager to develop skills that are critical to national safety and security, our C&I apprenticeship is the perfect opportunity for you.

Part of your training will be at the Skills Academy to develop a basic knowledge of C&I and learn the associated skills. By joining our C&I team, you will gain hands-on experience with a range of systems, from everyday household appliances to cutting-edge industrial equipment. Your work will directly contribute to the efficiency and safety of our operations, making a tangible impact on our mission.

About You:

• A practical aptitude for engineering or technology
• Computer literacy (PC)
• Excellent team working skills
• Good communication skills
• Awareness of health and safety
• Ability to follow instructions
• A passion and motivation for this profession

If you have an interest in understanding how Engineering Systems function, understanding Safe Systems of Work, enjoy being hands on, and applying engineering principles into real life scenarios, then we would love to hear from you!

Entry Requirements:

• 5 GCSEs at grade 4/C or above including Maths and English (Science desirable)
• Applicants must be aged 16 or over, as of 31st August 2025 due to security clearance requirements
• You must be a British National to apply for a role with us.

If you currently hold a Level 3 Diploma in Engineering or similar, you should consider applying for a degree level apprenticeship

The Benefits

• A starting salary of £16750 yearly, increasing annually throughout your apprenticeship
• Market leading contributory pension scheme
• Generous holiday entitlement of 270 hours a year (inclusive of Bank Holidays) plus every other Friday off
• Access to employee discounts portal – everyday savings on retail, hospitality and leisure
• Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services

Alongside these benefits you will get the opportunity to learn from some of the top leaders in their field whilst helping us to continue to deliver national nuclear security, threat reduction and counter-terrorism solutions.

Location – Aldermaston (Reading / Basingstoke area)

Start date – August 2025.

Duration – 3-4 years (varies depending on personal performance)

Recruitment Process

We recruit on a rolling basis which means as soon as our positions have been filled, the scheme will close to new applications. So, please apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out!

These roles are governed by Health and Safety at Work Regulations and require all candidates to have an Occupational Health pre-employment medical held at AWE which follows the initial selection process. All candidates must be willing and able to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role and be willing and able to work in designated areas.

Our ambition is to create workplaces where we recognise and celebrate differences, encourage diverse contributions and our employees feel able to be themselves at work. We strive to create a genuine culture of openness and inclusion and encourage diverse applicants.

Any inclusion information you provide us will be used to encourage and support you through the application process and will be held only for this purpose in accordance with GDPR.

Contact us

If you have questions during the application process, please reach out to the Early Careers Team at EarlyCareers@awe.co.uk

Roles are due to close at the end of November. Act quickly, make an application today.