Mechanical Design Engineering – Level 6 Apprenticeship

Why this role matters

Create safe and effective mechanical engineering solutions. You’ll combine degree study, placements and practical experience to solve technical challenges, develop and check designs, and support the through-life management of critical systems.

Why being onsite will support your development

This is an onsite engineering apprenticeship. Being onsite will help you learn from experienced engineers, contribute to real projects, use technical drawings and design tools, and understand how mechanical engineering decisions support safe and reliable systems.

Where this apprenticeship could take you

After successfully completing your apprenticeship, your first role may be as a Mechanical Design Engineer, with longer-term routes into teams such as Product Design or Hydrodynamic Trials.

Working pattern

Onsite at AWE Aldermaston and/or Burghfield, with every other Friday off.

The key skills we’re looking for

• Mechanical interest: You enjoy understanding how machines, parts and mechanical systems work.
• Problem-solving: You can use maths, logic and creativity to develop practical solutions.
• Attention to detail: You can interpret technical information and understand why checking and standards matter.
• Communication: You can explain ideas clearly, ask questions and work effectively with technical teams.

Entry requirements

3 A Levels at grade C or above including Maths and Physics, or a BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Engineering, plus 5 GCSEs at grade 4/C or above including Maths, English and a science, technology or engineering-related subject.

Security clearance

Applicants must be British Nationals and aged 18 or over by 31 August 2027, and able to obtain and maintain the required security clearance.

What happens after you apply

1. Online application: Submit one apprenticeship application before the role closes.
2. Online testing: If eligible, you’ll complete numerical, verbal, logical and cognitive reasoning assessments. Practice materials will be available.
3. Assessment centre: Successful candidates will be invited to an in-person assessment centre, currently scheduled for 23 February 2027.
4. Offer, medical and clearance: If successful, you’ll move into the offer, medical and security-clearance stages ahead of joining on 1 September 2027.

We review applications as they come in - so we strongly encourage you to apply early.

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