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Operations Apprentice (Level 3 – Advanced)

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).  

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.


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 Advanced Apprenticeship
  NA
 Published on 14-10-2025
 Deadline 22-02-2026