Engineering Operations Apprenticeship; Arnish

Navantia UK Overview

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 and Mechanical Engineering. On average this takes 12–18 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, you can proceed with a Level 3 in a specific trade area (Welder, Plater, Pipefitter, Mechanical Fitter or Electrician). The length of each apprenticeship depends on your ability, the type of apprenticeship and the location you complete it in. A Level 3 trade‑specific apprenticeship typically takes 2–2.5 years.

Your time will be split between study with your training provider and practising your skills in the yard. We have dedicated college partners at each yard to support you throughout your apprenticeship. Start dates will be around August/September 2026.

Interview & Assessment dates – Between 20th – 30th April 2026

• Hold a minimum of GCSE grade C/4 (or equivalent) in Mathematics and English
• Excellent communication skills, initiative and a strong drive to succeed
• Enthusiasm and determination to learn
• Self‑starter and motivated
• Ability to work well with colleagues and customers
• Commitment to upholding high health and safety standards
• Responsibility, reliability and dedication

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

• Competitive hourly rate
• Company pension
• Health care cash plan (optional)
• 33 days holiday
• Life assurance
• Great opportunity to kick‑start your career

We are an Opening Doors employer, committed to equal opportunity and an inclusive workplace. Our approach is shaped by our values of service, trust, excellence, agility, dedication and you. We focus on removing barriers and recognising potential, committing to fairness at every stage, providing reasonable adjustments and actively working to eliminate discrimination.

We believe talent is everywhere, and by widening access to opportunity and welcoming diverse experiences, we aim to create a workplace where every person feels valued and has an equal chance.

If you experience difficulties or are unable to apply for a role online, please contact us at pe and one of the team will be in contact to help you.