Mechanical Design Engineer Apprentice

This role goes beyond traditional design; you will apply mechanical engineering principles to solve complex technical challenges, create safe and effective design solutions, and support the through-life management of critical systems. This is not a traditional office-based design role. You will learn how mechanical engineering supports important equipment and systems that need to be safe, reliable and carefully controlled.

You will learn from experienced engineers and technical specialists, contributing to real projects that support AWE’s unique mission. You will work alongside experienced engineers and technical specialists, learning how engineering decisions are made and how they support AWE’s role in keeping the UK safe.

During the apprenticeship, you will learn how to:

• Turn customer and business requirements into realistic engineering solutions.
• Understand how designs are developed, checked, improved and supported throughout their life.
• Work with people from different technical teams, write clear engineering documents and support projects to meet agreed timescales.
• Build your confidence and technical knowledge through mentoring, training and support from experienced colleagues.

As you develop, you may use tools and techniques such as:

• CAD software, technical drawings and industry drawing standards.
• Engineering analysis, manufacturing processes and evidence that shows a design is safe and suitable.

Please note this is a 48 month apprenticeship followed by the End Point Assessment.

After you successfully complete your apprenticeship, you will continue to develop as a professional engineer. Your first role may be as a Mechanical Design Engineer, with longer-term career routes that could include:

• Product Design Team: helping to design, develop and support engineering solutions from early ideas through to tested and approved designs.
• Hydrodynamic Trials Team: supporting specialist trials that help engineers understand how designs perform and confirm they meet safety and performance expectations.

Start Date: 1st September 2027
Annual leave will not be granted from 1st September until 1st October due to mandatory inductions you are required to complete as part of your apprenticeship. Any leave approved after this point will depend on the training provider requirements for your apprenticeship and must be agreed in advance.

These roles are governed by Health and Safety at Work Regulations and require all candidates to have an Occupational Health pre-employment medical held at AWE which follows the initial selection process. All candidates must be willing and able to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role and be willing and able to work in designated areas.

Our ambition is to create workplaces where we recognise and celebrate differences, encourage diverse contributions and our employees feel able to be themselves at work. We strive to create a genuine culture of openness and inclusion and encourage diverse applicants.

If you choose to share information on your application form about support needs, learning differences, disabilities, health conditions or adjustments, we may contact you to understand how we can support you through the recruitment process. This information will only be used for this purpose and will be handled in line with GDPR.

Due to the security requirements associated with this apprenticeship, applicants must be British Nationals and be aged 18 or over by 31st August 2027.

3 A levels at Grade C or above, must include Maths and Physics or BTEC Level 3 Diploma in engineering.

5 GCSEs at Grade C or above, including Mathematics, English and a Science, Technology or Engineering related subject.

Access to employee discounts portal — everyday savings on retail, hospitality and leisure

Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services

Alongside these benefits, you will learn from experienced specialists in their fields while contributing to work that supports national nuclear security, threat reduction and counter-terrorism.

We’re a team of remarkable people, united by one extraordinary mission: keeping the UK safe and secure. The UK’s independent nuclear deterrent has existed for 75 years to deter the most extreme threats to our national security and way of life, helping to guarantee our safety, and that of our NATO allies.
Our work is critical. We’re delivering Astraea, the next warhead for the UK’s nuclear deterrent and pushing the boundaries of nuclear science and technology. But that’s just part of the story.
We support the UK government in a range of vital areas – from counter-terrorism to global nuclear test monitoring to building a world-class community of experts in nuclear science. This is work that protects lives and strengthens national security.
At AWE, you’ll find more than just a job. You’ll find purpose, growth, and a community like no other. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your career to the next level, this is your chance to learn from the best, develop your skills, and be part of something truly unique.
Be extraordinary at AWE.