Engineering Technician Apprentice

Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)

Salary: £19,514 per annum (rising annually throughout the apprenticeship)

Contract Type: Fixed-Term, 48 months

Hours: Full-time, 37 hours

Location: Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell Campus, Didcot, OX11 0QX

Closing Date: Sunday, 2nd February 2026

Interview Date: Feb 2026 / Mar 2026

Start Date: September 2026

Are you passionate about how things work and love solving technical problems? Join us as an Engineering Apprentice and kick‑start your future in a dynamic, hands‑on role.

Whether you’re fascinated by machines, electronics, design, or innovation, this is your chance to turn passion into profession. You’ll learn while you learn, gain real‑world experience on exciting projects, work alongside expert engineers who will mentor and support you and build skills that open doors to a rewarding career in engineering where every day is different.

If you’re ready to build the future—one project at a time, we want to hear from you!

We’re looking for enthusiastic and motivated individuals ready to develop their skills through formal training and hands‑on experience. As an apprentice, you’ll gain real‑world experience, build technical and professional skills, and contribute to cutting‑edge research and innovation in a dynamic, supportive environment.

You’ll be fully supported throughout the programme with regular check‑ins from a dedicated Apprenticeship Coordinator, structured training, practical experience, and mentorship from industry professionals. Plus, you’ll have access to workshops, a peer network, and career development support, helping you feel confident and prepared for new challenges.

• Earn while you learn with a Level 3 Engineering Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship
• Gain hands‑on experience in world‑class facilities
• Work on projects that support cutting‑edge science and innovation
• Build skills that open doors to a rewarding career in engineering

You will specialise in one of three disciplines: mechanical, electrical, or electronic.

Through our QuEST programme and partnership with Oxfordshire Advanced Skills (OAS), you’ll build a strong foundation in high‑value skills such as:

• Precision fitting, milling, and turning
• Surface‑mount soldering and electronic systems
• High‑purity gas systems and machine welding
• Scientific vacuum technology and cryogenics

• Level 3 Engineering Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship – Single Discipline
• L4 HNC (subject to eligibility criteria)

• Safe working practices and engineering regulations
• How to set up and operate manual, CNC, and EDM machines
• Producing and interpreting technical drawings, CAD files, and procedures
• Using engineering methods to identify problems and create solutions
• Collaborating with engineers, technicians, and scientists from around the world

Oxfordshire Advanced Skills (OAS)

• Year 1: Full‑time training at OAS in Culham, rotating through 4–6 week blocks. Supplemented with QuEST modules delivered by STFC staff in collaboration with UKAEA, covering technologies for Quantum, Fusion and high‑tech engineering.
• Year 2: On‑the‑job training at Rutherford Appleton Laboratory (RAL) with rotational placements in your chosen discipline, plus continued OAS blocks.
• Years 3–4: Fully embedded in the workplace, applying your skills in real‑world engineering environments as you progress toward becoming a qualified Engineering Technician.

Travel to OAS is required, with excess costs covered.

For more information about the training provider, please visit Level 3 Apprenticeships | OAS.

As a rotating engineering apprentice your main duties and responsibilities will include working under the guidance and support of your team within each placement.

Throughout your apprenticeship you will be expected to support scientists from all over the world as they continue to push back the barriers of science.

• You’ll help make mechanical parts and assemblies using both modern technology and traditional methods.
• At first,…