Pipefitter Apprenticeship

Navantia UK is a new force in British industry, supporting the UK’s defence, energy and maritime ambitions. We’re doing this by creating state-of-the-art sovereign defence capabilities, investing in the UK to modernise industrial facilities, and bolstering the nation's energy security. Established in 2022, Navantia UK is a subsidiary of Navantia SA, a Spanish state-owned company with over 300 years of naval shipbuilding history.

In January 2025, Navantia UK completed the acquisition of Harland & Wolff and its four historic facilities in Belfast, Appledore, Methil, and Arnish. By combining Harland & Wolff’s proud heritage and facilities with Navantia’s global expertise, Navantia UK is well-positioned to strengthen Britain’s defence, maritime and energy industrial capabilities, supporting jobs and economic growth across the UK.

The apprenticeship journey starts with a Level 2 in Engineering Operations. This is a general engineering apprenticeship covering Electrical, Technical Design, Fabrication, Welding, Mechanical Engineering. On average this takes 12 months to complete. If you have already completed a Level 2 in Engineering Operations or equivalent, you will not have to repeat this.

Once you have completed the Level 2 in Engineering Operations, you can proceed with a Level 3 in this specific trade area. The length of each apprenticeship depends onyour ability, the type of apprenticeship and the location you complete it in. Level 3 Trade specific apprenticeship on average takes 2 – 2.5 years.

Your time will be split between study with your training provider and time putting your skills into practice in the yard. We have dedicated college partners at each yard where you can develop your skills and to provide you with support throughout your apprenticeship.

• Interview & Assessment dates: 13th April – 24th April (approx. 3hrs)
• Start dates: around August/September 2026

Reporting to: The Apprenticeship Supervisor and Manager

You will learn the skills to support qualified pipe fitters in pipe fabrication and fitting tasks within the shipyard. You will learn to work with various pipe sizes, techniques and materials, gaining hands‑on experience both in the workshop, onboard vessels or on heavy fabrication projects.

• Assist in profiling and shaping pipes using hand and power tools.
• Support the preparation and fitting of piping systems according to engineering drawings.
• Help assemble and connect piping systems including flanges, clamps and threaded pipes.
• Work as part of a team and follow guidance from experienced pipe fitters.
• Assist with diagnostics and testing of pipework and systems.
• Work safely at heights and in confined spaces under supervision.

• Demonstrate a positive attitude to safety and report any concerns.
• Follow all safety, environmental and quality procedures.
• Maintain good housekeeping in all work areas.

• Assist in inspection of parts and assemblies for accuracy and quality.
• Support company standards including ISO 9001, 14001 and 45001 by following

• Hold a minimum of a grade (C)4/5 in GCSE Maths and English or a willingness to work towards
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to use your own initiative and a strong drive to succeed.
• Enthusiasm and determination to learn and develop skills in fabrication.
• Ability to get on with colleagues and customers.
• Commitment to complete all college work that is set within the programme requirements.
• To participate in scheduled reviews that will assess competences, behaviours and college progression.
• An agreement to complete your training diligently and punctually.
• To at all times, conduct yourself at work, college and within the local community in a responsible manner and promote to the best of your ability, the interests of the company.

• Ability to establish an appropriate course of action for self and/or others to accomplish a goal.
• Effectiveness in identifying possible problems for upward reporting/investigation.
• Ability to express ideas or facts in a clear manner.
• Professional and pro‑active…