Key Takeaways
- Undertake a 4.5-year Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship in Electro-Mechanical Engineering, leading to a BSc (Hons) from Lancaster University.
- Gain hands-on experience in Manufacturing Test and Calibration & Maintenance roles within MBDA's manufacturing facility in Bolton.
- Earn a starting salary of £23,000 per year, plus a £3,000 joining bonus and annual pay reviews.
- Applications close on Friday 22nd January 2027, with the programme starting in September 2027.
About the Role
Test, Calibration & Maintenance Engineering Degree Apprenticeship
This is a 4.5-year full-time apprenticeship based in Bolton, starting in September 2027.
The Qualification
You will study Electro-Mechanical Engineering at Blackpool College, leading to a BSc honours degree in Engineering awarded by Lancaster University.
Your Role at MBDA
You will spend one day a week at college and the remainder of the working week gaining practical experience within the Manufacturing facility. Your work will cover two key areas:
- Manufacturing Test: Supporting the manufacturing, testing, and programming of components from circuit cards to missiles and their platforms.
- Calibration & Maintenance: Providing commissioning, calibration, maintenance, and metrology services, and responding to faults and breakdowns across test and process equipment.
You will gain experience with diverse technologies including electronics, mechatronics, optics, and RF, utilising a range of electronic, electrical, and mechanical skills.
The apprenticeship includes placements that rotate around Test and Calibration & Maintenance. Your final year will focus on developing expertise in a specific area. You may also undertake a placement in an area external to Engineering to gain broader business insight.
Daily activities can range from hands-on work with equipment on the shop floor and in the lab to working on technical documentation. You will develop problem-solving, analytical, logical thinking, and curiosity.
What We Offer
- Fully funded qualification
- Paid travel expenses to and from your place of study
- Annual pay reviews
- Healthcare Cash Plan
- 25 days annual leave (plus holiday purchase) and up to 15 days flexi leave
- Study leave during exam periods
- £3000 joining bonus
Entry Requirements
GCSEs:
A minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language, Mathematics, and any Science or Technology subject.
Post-GCSEs (equivalent to 120 UCAS Tariff points):
- A Levels: Three A levels totalling 120 UCAS Tariff points, including Maths and either a Science, Technology or Engineering subject, with no individual grade below C.
- BTECs: A single Level 3 Extended Diploma in an Engineering, Science or Technology-based subject at a minimum grade of DDM, including a distinction in a Further Maths module.
- T Levels: T Level in Engineering with a minimum Merit grade.
Note: Entry criteria are based on your top three full A Levels or equivalent qualifications. UCAS points from an Extended Project Qualification are not included. MBDA sets its own entry criteria, which may differ from the university/college.
Security Clearance
- British Citizen or a Dual UK national with British citizenship.
- Successful candidates will undergo HMG Basic Personnel Security Standard checks (BPSS).
- Restrictions and/or limitations relating to nationality and/or rights to work may apply.