Automation Engineering Apprentice - 48 month fixed term contract

Amazon; Manchester; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global tech company is seeking an Automation Engineering Apprentice for a 48-month fixed term contract in Manchester. You will work on cutting-edge robotics and automation technology while gaining theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience. Applicants require GCSEs and A levels in relevant subjects, with placements leading to a Level 6 Control Technical Support Apprenticeship. This role offers unique exposure to advanced automation systems and the chance to contribute to real-world applications.

Benefits

Accommodation provided for initial training

Travel expenses covered for training

Inclusive work environment

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years or over before the start date.
• Right to live and work in England.
• Resident in the UK for the entire duration of the programme.

Responsibilities

• Support maintenance and fault-finding on automated systems.
• Use diagnostic tools to maintain machinery.
• Plan preventative maintenance and safety checks.

Skills

Maintenance and fault-finding

Robotics and automation

Diagnostic tools

Collaboration

Education

5 GCSEs C grade or above including Maths and English

Three A levels or equivalent in Mathematics, IT, Physics, or Engineering

BTEC level 3 engineering qualification

Job description

Automation Engineering Apprentice - 48 month fixed term contract

Job ID: 3119126 | Amazon UK Services Ltd. - A10

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.

Welcome to the future of engineering – step into a world where innovation happens at an extraordinary scale. Our fulfilment centres are like living, breathing cities of automation, where:

• Hundreds of autonomous robots collaborate seamlessly to fulfil 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.

What Makes This Opportunity Unique?

• Work with Amazon exclusive technology you won't find anywhere else
• Experience automation at a scale that's transforming global logistics
• Be part of teams developing and implementing next‑generation robotics
• Learn from engineers who are industry pioneers
• See your ideas come to life in real‑world applications
• Shape the future of automation technology

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

Throughout your apprenticeship, you'll gain both theoretical knowledge and hands‑on experience with:

• 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 based either at 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 these 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.

You'll join a diverse and passionate team of engineers dedicated to driving results and pushing creative boundaries. We value different perspectives and experiences, and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. Our employee‑led affinity groups including communities for women in tech, LGBTQ+ employees, and under‑represented minorities foster a culture of inclusion that empowers us to be proud of our differences and provide a platform for your voice to be heard.

Basic Qualifications

• To qualify for this programme, you must:
• Be 18 years or over before the start date (September 2026)
• 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 C grade (grade 4) or above including Maths and English
• Three A levels (or equivalent) at 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
• Please note, if you have received educational qualifications outside of the UK then we will require a Statement of Comparability to confirm your eligibility for the scheme. Please ensure you obtain one during the application process, through UK ENIC: https://www.enic.org.uk/
• Previous qualifications will be reviewed for funding eligibility and offers are subject to funding approval
• PLEASE NOTE: This position is a 48‑month fixed‑term contract. You must NOT already have a qualification in a similar subject at the same or higher level than this apprenticeship.
• This Apprenticeship assumes the candidate has little or no knowledge/experience of the occupation and is NOT suitable for candidates who already have a similar or higher‑level qualification in the same or similar subject of the apprenticeship.

Preferred Qualifications

• You have a maintenance or Engineering HNC/D qualification – ideally with a PLC, automation, electronics or electrical bias

Amazon is an equal opportunities employer. 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. Amazon is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status. Our inclusive culture empowers Amazonians to deliver the best results for our customers. If you have a disability and need a workplace accommodation or adjustment during the application and hiring process, including support for the interview or onboarding process, please visit https://amazon.jobs/content/en/how-we-hire/accommodations for more information.