Manufacturing Engineer Apprenticeship (Level 6 Degree)

About the Apprenticeship

This apprenticeship focuses on developing your interest in how products and parts are manufactured safely, accurately, and consistently. You will build your knowledge step-by-step, learning how designs are translated into real processes, tools, and practical solutions used in the workplace.

You will combine university study with hands-on placements at AWE. During the apprenticeship, you will learn how manufacturing engineers support areas such as:

• Precision manufacture
• Fabrication
• Joining
• Assembly
• Materials processing
• Tooling
• Inspection
• New production capability

Working with teams across design, operations, quality, safety, and projects, you will understand how different engineering functions integrate to ensure work is completed safely and to the required standard.

As you gain confidence, you will undertake real engineering tasks with support from experienced colleagues. This may involve testing or improving manufacturing processes, analysing data, solving practical problems, supporting the development of tools or equipment, and creating clear engineering documentation. You will also learn the importance of safety, quality, cost, delivery, and sustainability in a highly regulated organisation.

Manufacturing currently utilises significant digital technology. You may use computer-aided design and manufacturing tools, digital work instructions, engineering systems, and data analysis. You will learn how technology enables teams to work accurately, safely, and consistently, and why maintaining reliable records is crucial.

Opportunities Upon Completion

Upon successful completion of your apprenticeship, you could transition into one of our engineering teams as a Manufacturing Engineer. The specific role will depend on business needs and the skills and interests you develop during your apprenticeship. Potential future areas include:

• New product introduction
• Manufacturing system design
• Advanced or digital manufacturing
• Tooling
• Production support or continuous improvement.

You will also receive ongoing support for your engineering career development, including working towards professional recognition where applicable.

About You

We are seeking individuals who are curious about manufacturing processes and keen to develop practical engineering skills. Throughout the apprenticeship, you will be encouraged to ask questions, participate actively, learn from others, and build your confidence.

• You enjoy solving practical problems and understanding the reasons behind successes or failures.
• You work meticulously, recognising the importance of safety, quality, and attention to detail.
• You are interested in how designs, materials, machinery, processes, and data converge to achieve successful outcomes.
• You can communicate effectively, listen to others, and collaborate with diverse teams.
• You are organised, reliable, willing to ask questions, receptive to feedback, and committed to continuous improvement.
• You have an interest in technology and how digital tools can enhance accuracy, safety, and efficiency.

This role may appeal to you if you enjoy:

• Understanding how things are made and the steps required to do so safely and correctly.
• A blend of hands-on learning, using digital tools, analysing information, and problem-solving.
• Transforming an idea into a safe, repeatable, and effective process.
• Learning through real engineering projects while pursuing a fully funded degree.

Entry Requirements

• 5 GCSEs at grade C/4 or above, including Maths, English, and a science, technology, or engineering-related subject.
• A-level grade C or above in a Maths-based subject and a science, technology, engineering, or additional Maths-related subject, OR 90+ credits in an Engineering BTEC at Level 3.

Due to security requirements, applicants must be British Nationals and aged 18 or over by 31 August 2027.

Benefits

• A starting salary of £24,500 yearly, increasing to £26,000 in Year 2, with further annual salary increases based on satisfactory performance and achievement of apprenticeship milestones.
• Market-leading contributory pension scheme.
• Generous paid holiday entitlement of 270 hours per year, inclusive of Bank Holidays, plus every other Friday off.
• Access to an employee discounts portal for everyday savings.
• Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services.

Location

Reading area: AWE Aldermaston and/or AWE Burghfield sites. On-site presence is expected throughout the apprenticeship and future roles due to the nature of the work and security requirements.

Recruitment Process

• Start Date: 1st September 2027
• Apprenticeship Duration: 4 years plus 6-month End Point Assessment
• Closing Date: 20th December 2026
• Application Review: Applications are reviewed as they are received; early application is encouraged.
• Process:
  1. Online application
  2. Online test (numerical, verbal, logical, cognitive reasoning)
  3. In-person assessment centre (scheduled for 4th and 9th February 2027)
• Additional Requirements: Willingness to obtain and maintain necessary security clearance (funded by AWE). Applicants must be British Citizens and aged 18 or over by 31 August 2027. An Occupational Health pre-employment medical is required.