At AWE, we don’t just offer apprenticeships – we offer the opportunity to be part of something bigger. From day one, you’ll be contributing to one of the most important missions in the UK: supporting the defence and security of the nation
You’ll be earning a salary as you gain hands-on experience and study towards industry-recognised qualifications. Our advanced apprenticeships are just the beginning as many of our apprentices go on to build long-term careers with us in specialist and leadership roles.
We’re committed to helping you reach your full potential. You’ll receive structured training, one-to-one mentoring, and continuous support throughout your apprenticeship. Whether you’re interested in nuclear engineering, HR, or project controls, we’ll help you build the skills and confidence to thrive.
What are the benefits?
– You’ll spend every day contributing to a safe and secure future by joining our mission
– Access to top-class facilities
– Be mentored and guided by industry experts
– You’ll get hands-on experience that will set you up with skills for life
– Earn while you learn
Explore opportunities
Control and Instrumentation (C&I)
Put simply, C&I engineers create, simplify and automate processes.
Electrical Maintenance
You’ll learn how to inspect, test, and maintain electrical systems and equipment vital to our mission.
Operations
You will have a unique opportunity to work in a variety of placements around our business.
Mechatronic Maintenance
This role includes servicing, repairing and installing various PLC systems.
Human Resources (HR)
Directly provide support to our workforce.
Quality Inspector
Quality Inspectors make sure every component meets the mark.
Precision Machining
Help us manufacture the component parts of our product.
Mechanical Maintenance
Learn the basics of hand tools and how to operate machines.
CAD Technician
Combining creativity, accuracy and engineering insight.
Metrology
Metrology is a vital skill to improve and verify the quality of products and components
High Performance Computing
Work across the HPC group and with supercomputers.
The application process
Step 1 – Online application
We ask that you apply for just one apprenticeship. Take your time to explore the options and choose the one that best matches your interests and goals. You can add your preferred second and third choice to your application form which we will consider your first choice isn’t the right fit.
Step 2 – Online assessment
If successful, you will be invited to complete our online assessment stage. Practice assessments will be available so you will be fully equipped with the knowledge of what is expected at this stage ahead of completing the live assessments.
Step 3 – Virtual assessment centre
We will be running pre-assessment centre webinars to provide guidance on what to expect. We don’t like to keep people waiting, so we aim to respond to all assessments within five working days. We also believe that development is important, whether successful or not. Therefore, we aim to provide feedback on your outcome either way.
Step 4 – Your offer
Congratulations! If you’re successful, we’ll be in touch with your offer and provide you the support to go through Security Clearance.
Step 5 – Security clearance
This check is run by the UK Security Vetting Agency (UKSV). Depending on the level of clearance required you may be asked to complete some forms, upload ID and/or attend an in-person interview and/or medical assessment. This stage can take up to 6 months so we’ll keep in touch.
Step 6 – Start date
You’ve got your security clearance so you’ll be joining us from 1st September 2026. Welcome to the team!
Meet our apprentices
Want to find out more?
Applications are currently closed.
You can register your interest and we will reach out to you when we reopen.