Engineering Design and Manufacture Graduate Apprenticeship - Welding Engineering

Programme Details

This 4-year Engineering (Design and Manufacture) Graduate Apprenticeship offers you a chance to contribute to major UK defence programmes while working towards a BEng (Hons) degree in Welding Engineering.

About the Programme

Join a skilled team working on real-world projects like the Royal Navy’s Type 31 frigates and maintaining Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers. Specialize in Welding Engineering as you develop knowledge of welding processes, materials, and metallurgy. Learn about the larger engineering context, including design constraints, material selection, and quality requirements.

Work alongside experienced Welding Engineers to support various site activities, including aiding in the development and review of Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS), assisting with welding coordination, and contributing to inspection processes through visual inspections and Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) techniques. Support weld audits and compliance activities to ensure quality and regulatory standards are met.

Engage in continuous improvement initiatives by supporting quality enhancements, identifying opportunities to reduce costs, and assisting with new procedure development. Gain experience in investigating weld issues, understanding root causes, and implementing solutions. As you progress, explore emerging technologies like welding automation and robotics.

Your Education/Training

Study for a BEng (Hons) in Engineering (Design and Manufacture) through Glasgow Caledonian University. The programme offers a blended learning model with one to two days of study per week during term time. Co-designed with industry and accredited by the IET, IMechE, and InstMC, the degree supports your journey toward professional recognition.

Benefit from structured workplace development through Babcock, applying academic learning to real engineering challenges while building your professional capabilities. Develop skills in areas such as welding processes (TIG, MIG, MMA, etc.), standards and compliance, materials, and metallurgy, inspection and quality assurance, problem-solving and root cause analysis, and communication and stakeholder engagement.

Future Prospects

Upon successful completion, transition into a Welding Engineering role with a competitive salary starting from £39,000. Continue developing through the Babcock Role Framework, offering clear career pathways, development opportunities, and the tools needed for career progression.

Qualification Requirements

• UCAS Tariff: 96 points.
• Scottish Highers: BBCC or equivalent, including Maths and a science or technology subject.
• Acceptable alternatives: Relevant Foundation Apprenticeships, Modern Apprenticeship at SCQF Level 6, or an HNC in Electrical, Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Welding Engineering.
• Residency in Scotland is required, as apprenticeships are available only to those living and working in Scotland.
• This role requires on-site attendance; therefore, you must reside within commuting distance of Rosyth or relocate before joining.
• Security Clearance: Must achieve and maintain BPSS and SC clearance as per national security legislation.
• The post is open only to sole UK nationals due to legal requirements.

Benefits and Career Development

• Fully funded qualification
• Personal development training and opportunities
• A minimum of 28 days holiday allowance, including bank holidays
• Competitive pension scheme
• Employee share scheme
• Flexible benefits including cycle to work scheme and employee shopping savings portal

Get involved in STEM outreach and volunteering opportunities, which are highly rewarding for our apprentices. Upon joining, participate in our Apprentice Development Programme with sessions led by wellbeing and performance experts to help you excel in your role and beyond.

Application Process and Important Information

Applications are reviewed in order of receipt, with the possibility of closing earlier due to high interest. To be considered, submit your application and complete any online assessments promptly. Apply to one programme only; if multiple applications are submitted, the first will be assessed. Alternative programmes may be offered if your chosen one is oversubscribed.

As a Disability Confident Employer, we provide additional support or adjustments during recruitment upon request. We are committed to inclusivity and flexible working; please inquire about alternate work patterns during the interview.