Job Description

If you'd like to be considered for this opportunity we encourage you to apply promptly to avoid disappointment as if applications are high the role will close before the closing date given.
Operations Apprentice (Level 3 - Advanced)
About AWE
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.
About the apprenticeship:
An Operations Apprentice role at AWE will give you your first steps to a career in a diverse and unique environment, involving Operations, Manufacturing, Science, and Engineering and other key areas of the business.

You will be key to providing manufacturing and assembly capabilities to the defence and security of the United Kingdom. You will experience hands-on production and process operations in a highly regulated and safety conscious working environment.

Here are just some of the exciting opportunities you could get involved with during your placements:You will spend time in each of our operational areas to understand common tasks, following processes, and delivering work to specific requirements. You may have the opportunity to carry out practical laboratory analysis, supporting administrative activities, and monitoring physical and environmental health. You will learn techniques for undertaking experiments within our explosives operational area and the related safety measures required. You will gain an understanding of organising and planning daily work processes, weekly plans, and safe systems of work, all of which ensure that any works carried out across the site follow the correct process and safety procedures. You may even carry out science related work such as pulsed power trials, where you'll explore the science and technology of accumulating energy over time and releasing it instantly.

Your role can be physically demanding, so you will be required to pass a medical test for general fitness and suitability to work with our unique materials. This includes having a BMI of under 35, a legal requirement for wearing respiratory protection (which you may be required to wear dependant on your role).

Opportunities when you complete your apprenticeship:
You are likely to outturn into one of our operational Business Units, but could also apply for roles within some of our other functional areas which could include logistics, science and engineering.
Apprenticeship Standard:
Process Industry Technician (ST1407).
Training Provider:
Basingstoke College of Technology
About you:A practical aptitude for engineering and technology Attention to detail Excellent team working skills Good communication skills Awareness of health and safety Ability to follow instructions Passionate and self-motivated Good time management skills (i.e. planning and completing work to schedule)

This role may appeal to you if you enjoy:Having an eye for detail and an interest in improving things Reviewing documents and understanding their application in the real world Having a logical approach to understanding processes Having a hands-on approach to problem solving Good manual dexterity for assembly of components

Entry Requirements:5 GCSE's at grade 4/C or above including Maths, English and Science Applicants must be aged 18 or over, as of 31st August 2026 due to security clearance requirements You must be a British National to apply for a role with us.

The Benefits:A starting salary of 16,750 yearly, increasing to 23,500 in Year 2 and annually throughout your apprenticeship -- subject to meeting key milestones and performance expectations. Market leading contributory pension scheme Generous holiday entitlement of 270 hours a year (inclusive of Bank Holidays) plus every other Friday off Access to employee discounts portal - everyday savings on retail, hospitality and leisure Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services

Alongside these benefits you will get the opportunity to learn from some of the top leaders in their field whilst helping us to continue to deliver national nuclear security, threat reduction and counter-terrorism solutions.

Location:
Aldermaston/Reading area

Start Date: Tuesday 1st September 2026
Annual leave will not be granted from 1st September until 2nd October 2026 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.

Duration:
36 months plus End Point Assessment

Recruitment Process:
This vacancy will close on 22nd February 2026, but we review applications as they come in--so we strongly encourage you to apply early.

We want you to shine in your application process which is designed to be fair and transparent. So we've kept it simple with a three step process.

Online application: Apply for one apprenticeship; take your time to explore the options and choose the one that best matches your interests and goals.

Online test: If successful, you will be invited to complete our online assessment stage. These include online testing against numerical, verbal, logical and cognitive reasoning tests. Don't be intimidated: practice assessments will be available so you will be fully equipped with the knowledge of what to expect.

In person assessment: Those successful at testing will be invited to an in person assessment centre. The Assessment Centres are scheduled for 26th January 2026, 6th February 2026 and 9th and 16th March 2026. Please note that these dates may be subject to change, but rest assured, we'll keep all applicants informed throughout the process

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.

We encourage diverse applicants and we're here to support you all the way. We encourage you to let us know if you need any adjustments on your application. Any inclusion information you provide us will be used to encourage and support you through the application process and will be held only for this purpose in accordance with GDPR. Learn about how we handle your data.
Contact us
If you have questions during the application process, please reach out to the Early Careers Team at EarlyCareers@awe.co.uk

Next steps:
Everyone who works at AWE brings unique skills and perspectives to the table. We recognise that great people don't always 'tick every box'. That's why we focus on your potential, your fit with our values, your transferable skills as well as your experience. Even if you don't meet every point above, but you feel that this role and AWE are a great fit for you, please go ahead and apply, we'd love to receive your application.
Important things you need to know:We encourage you to apply promptly to avoid disappointment if applications are high and the role therefore closes. You will need to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role. This will be funded by AWE. The nature of our work does mean you need to be a British Citizen who has been resident in the UK for the past 5 years in order to apply for SC clearance and 10 years for DV. We want you to feel comfortable and able to shine during our recruitment process. Please let us know on your application form if you need any adjustments/accommodations during the process. Our interviews typically take place over Teams and for most roles are a 1 stage process.

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. Any inclusion information you provide will be stored in accordance with GDPR and kept separate from your application form and CV, and the information will not be shared with anyone involved in interviewing or making hiring decisions.
Please note that you must be a British Citizen to apply for a role with us.