Automation Engineering Apprentice - 48 month fixed term contract

Amazon.com, Inc; Leeds; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 24,000; Full time

Job summary

A global technology leader is seeking an Automation Apprentice in Leeds to work hands-on with cutting-edge technology in their fulfillment centers. Responsibilities include supporting automated systems maintenance and collaborating on process improvements. The role offers the chance to gain qualifications while working full-time, including a Level 6 Control Technical Support Apprenticeship. Ideal candidates will have GCSEs in Maths and English and relevant A levels. Join us and be a part of the future of automation.

Benefits

Accommodation during training

Travel expenses support

Qualifications

• Right to live and work in England.
• Have lived in the UK or EEA for the last 3 years.
• Not registered for UK government funded courses ending after August 2026.

Responsibilities

• Support maintenance of automated systems.
• Use diagnostic tools on conveyors and robotics.
• Plan preventative maintenance.

Skills

Diagnostics

Engineering collaboration

Automation programming

Data analytics

Education

GCSEs grade C or above in Maths and English

3 A levels in relevant subjects

Tools

PLC systems

Industrial automation systems

Job description

Ever wondered what it's like to orchestrate a symphony of robots? Can you picture yourself controlling cutting‑edge technology that powers one of the world’s most advanced networks? Imagine being at the controls of one of the world’s most sophisticated automated networks, where thousands of robots dance in perfect harmony, artificial intelligence makes split‑second decisions, and breakthrough technology comes to life. This isn’t science fiction – this is Amazon, and this could be your everyday workspace as an Automation Apprentice.

What’s happening in our fulfillment centers

• Hundreds of autonomous robots collaborate seamlessly to fulfill customer orders
• Advanced AI and machine learning systems make real‑time decisions
• Revolutionary conveyor systems spanning miles move packages at lightning speed
• Cutting‑edge robotic arms handle packages with incredible precision
• Smart sensors and vision systems guide operations with pinpoint accuracy
• Ground‑breaking automated storage and retrieval systems redefine efficiency

As an Automation Apprentice within our Reliability Maintenance Engineering (RME) team, you’ll be hands‑on with technology that most people only read about. You’ll work alongside industry experts who are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in automation. This isn’t just maintenance – it’s about being part of a team that innovates, improves, and reimagines automation technology every single day.

Key job responsibilities

• Supporting maintenance and fault‑finding on automated systems and robotics
• Using diagnostic tools to keep conveyors and sortation equipment running smoothly
• Planning preventative maintenance and safety checks
• Collaborating with engineers to develop new process improvements and energy‑efficient solutions

What you’ll learn during the apprenticeship

• Advanced robotics systems and controls
• Industrial automation programming
• Smart sensor technology and IoT integration
• Predictive maintenance systems
• Data analytics and performance optimisation
• Safety systems for human‑robot collaboration
• Industry 4.0 technologies
• Machine learning applications in automation

Within this 48‑month programme, you will work towards the Level 6 Control Technical Support Apprenticeship, combining practical, on‑the‑job experience with industry‑recognised study. Your first 12 months will be a full‑time residential programme at either one of our external training provider facilities or at our own world‑class Amazon training centres – reflecting our significant investment in developing state‑of‑the‑art facilities for the next generation of engineers. If you live outside of a commutable distance, accommodation will be provided during term time for the first 12 months, and travel expenses will be supported. In later years you will have on‑the‑job training working towards a BSc in Controls and Automation Engineering and an HNC/D in Electrical/Controls Engineering. You’ll support our 24/7 operation in shift covering days, nights and weekends in patterns that reflect the real‑world schedules of engineers who keep Amazon operating around the clock.

We value different perspectives and experiences, and we’re dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. Our employee‑led affinity groups – including communities for women in tech, LGBTQ+ employees, and underrepresented minorities – foster a culture of inclusion that empowers us to be proud of our differences. These groups provide community, mentorship, and a platform for your voice to be heard. We’re committed to building a workforce that reflects the customers and communities we serve.

Recruitment & eligibility

Have the right to live and work in England (if you are on a visa, this must enable you to legally work and reside in England for the entire duration of the programme until September 2030).

• Have lived in the UK or in the European Economic Area (EEA) for the last 3 years
• Be a resident of the UK for the entire duration of the programme
• Not be registered to study on a UK government funded course ending August 2026 or later
• Have at least 5 GCSEs grade C (grade 4) or above including Maths and English
• Three A levels (or equivalent) at grade C (grade 4) or above in either Mathematics, IT, Physics, or an Engineering-related subject, OR have completed a BTEC level 3 engineering qualification of 180 credits which must include further mathematics
• Must NOT already have a qualification in a similar subject at the same or higher level than this apprenticeship

Preferred qualifications

• Maintenance or Engineering HNC/D qualification – ideally with a PLC, automation, electronics or electrical focus

Join us at Amazon, where the future of automation is being written today. Whether you’re debugging a robotic system, optimising conveyor performance, or collaborating on the next big innovation in automation, every day brings new challenges and exciting opportunities to push technological boundaries. Turn your passion for technology into an extraordinary career that puts you at the forefront of engineering innovation. The robots are waiting – are you ready to take control? Apply now and be part of the team that’s revolutionising the future of automation.

Amazon is an equal opportunities employer. We believe passionately that employing a diverse workforce is central to our success. We make recruiting decisions based on your experience and skills. We value your passion to discover, invent, simplify and build. Protecting your privacy and the security of your data is a longstanding top priority for Amazon. Please consult our Privacy Notice (https://www.amazon.jobs/en/privacy_page) to know more about how we collect, use and transfer the personal data of our candidates.