Eligibility
Who can apply?
To apply for any role at AWE you must be a British Citizen. We’ll also ask if you’ve lived outside the UK in the past 10 years, as this is part of our national security requirements.
When do applications open?
Our Year In Industry schemes open on 16th September 2025.
We’re getting ready to open applications for all our Early Careers programmes – and we’d love to hear from you. You can register your interest now. That way, you’ll be the first to know when applications go live.
Do you provide reasonable adjustments for candidates with a disability?
We are very keen to know if you need any adjustments for any type of disability. We are here to help. Please get in touch by email [email protected].
What support do you give to new joiners on the undergraduate programme with regards to supporting health and wellbeing?
Our people can only deliver if they’re feeling their best. That’s why we have a dedicated undergraduate wellbeing programme that focuses on supporting the four pillars of wellbeing: physical, emotional, social and financial.
This includes:
- An established network of Wellbeing Champions
- A monthly wellbeing calendar of activities
- A financial education platform
- An employee assistance programme
Can I apply for more than one role at a time?
No – we ask that you apply for just one pathway at a time. Take your time to explore the options and choose the one that best matches your interests and goals.
What qualifications do I need?
These will vary depending on the area of the business you choose to apply to. We offer Year in Industry placements across a vast array of teams at AWE, including within Engineering, Materials & Analytical Sciences, Physics, Nuclear Threat Reduction, Environment, Safety and Quality Management, Project Management, Data Science, Nuclear Materials and Cyber Security.
Opportunities
What happens at the end of the programme?
As you progress through your programme, we’ll be looking at the potential you bring and the impact you make. When it’s time to take your next step, you’ll have two clear options:
- Join our flagship Evolve graduate programme, designed to accelerate your development.
- Step directly into a specialist role where you can continue making a difference from day one.
Whichever path is right for you, we’ll be by your side well before your placement finishes. We’ll be offering guidance, support, and honest advice to help you move forward with confidence.
How do I know which pathway would suit me best?
Take a look at each pathway and see how your skills and traits match up. These are rotational placements that ensure you will get the most out of your two years with us.
Security Vetting
I have heard about Security Clearance being a requirement at AWE. What is this and why do I need it?
Because of the nature of the work we do, we require all potential employees to go through a Security Clearance check if they are offered a role with us. 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.
My Security Clearance hasn’t come through yet, should I hold off on relocating?
We strongly recommend that you hold off on relocating until your Security Clearance has been received from UKSV and your start date has been confirmed by AWE.
How long will the Security Vetting process take?
The Security Vetting process can take up to 6 months. We will advise you on how to get updates on this from UKSV.
How long will AWE hold my personal information for?
We’ll keep your application information for 12 months, after which it will be automatically deleted from our system.
If you’re not successful at any stage, we’ll ask if you’re happy for us to hold onto your details for future opportunities. If you say no, we’ll remove your information straight away.
We take your privacy seriously and are fully committed to protecting your personal data in line with GDPR.
You can read more in our Privacy Notice.
Application process
How will I know my application has been received?
You will receive an acknowledgement from us via an automated email, which you will receive shortly after submitting your application.
What does the recruitment process look like?
The steps in our recruitment process are the same across all of our programmes. However, the questions you will see and the skills we are looking for are tailored to the programme you are applying to.
Our process is designed to help you show your strengths. Here’s what to expect:
- Online application: Tell us about yourself and upload any requested documents.
- Online assessment: If your application is successful, we’ll invite you to complete an assessment tailored to your chosen programme.
- Virtual assessment centre: This is your chance to meet us, take part in exercises, and show us your potential.
- Offer: If you’re successful, we’ll be in touch with your offer and next steps.
We’ll guide you through each stage with full information when you get your invitations.
We are very keen to know if you need any adjustments for any type of disability. We are here to help. AWE is committed to protecting the privacy and security of your personal information so let us know how we can support you.
What happens between accepting my offer and joining AWE?
We will stay in touch and support you as you wait for your security clearance. Throughout the programme you will be provided with the opportunity to attend online sessions, meet your peers, and get to know the people at AWE.
What would my start date be?
3rd August 2026.
I haven’t been successful; can I re-apply?
You can reapply in the future, but you can only apply once per year. If you’re not successful, we would encourage you to only re-apply when you feel ready, having reflected on your previous application and any feedback provided.
Pay and benefits
What will my salary be?
We offer a highly competitive salary because we believe that every single on of our people should be rewarded fairly. The salary you’ll receive is £23,500.
What will my work week look like?
At AWE, we operate on a nine-day fortnight. You’ll also get 270 hours of holiday leave on top of that.
Will I get other benefits?
We offer our people as much support as we can. You bring the brilliance, and get access to savings on a wide range of everyday spending and a pension contribution scheme.
Still don’t have the answer you need?
Contact our recruitment team via email at [email protected].
Already got your contract? Great! Talk to our onboarding team on 0118 982 9000 or by email at [email protected].