Automation Maintenance Technician

Northrop Grumman; City of Westminster; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defense and aerospace company seeks candidates for a marine engineering training program in the United Kingdom. The role involves learning to operate and maintain machinery on ships, with time spent both at maritime college and at sea. Candidates will need 56 UCAS points and four GCSEs in Maths, Science, and English. Successful applicants will receive a foundation degree in marine engineering and possible career advancement opportunities. Flexibility in working hours is essential due to shift work.

Qualifications

• Must pass an industry-standard medical examination.
• Must be 18 years old by 1st September 2026.
• Applicants should normally reside in the UK.

Responsibilities

• Learn to run and maintain the main engines and mechanical equipment on board.
• Work both at maritime college and at sea.
• Handle large machinery and ensure safety in the engine room.

Skills

Workshop skills

Engineering science

Analytical methods

Pneumatics and hydraulics

Instrumentation and control principles

Marine electrical systems

Diesel propulsion

Education

56 UCAS points and four GCSEs at grade B/6 or above

Maritime/Engineering HNC or HND

Job description

Job Description

Hot and frenetic, the engine room is the beating heart of any ship. Our training will teach you about the ship’s main engines and how to run and maintain the mechanical equipment on board. You will split your time between maritime college and sea. At college you will learn about workshop skills, engineering science, analytical methods, pneumatics and hydraulics, instrumentation & control principles, marine electrical systems, diesel propulsion and more. When at sea you will work day shifts and sometimes support watch keeping in the engine room. It means handling anything from stripping an engine and inspecting components, to following the path of water, oil or steam through the ship. You will be dealing with large machinery, so safety is critical. As an officer, you will also be in charge of the safety of all staff in the engine room. This opportunity involves day/night shift work, so you need to be flexible in working hours.

Qualifications & Requirements

• 56 UCAS points (or equivalent) and four GCSEs at grade B/6 or above, including Maths, Physical Science and English.
• Or a maritime/engineering HNC or HND plus GCSEs (grade 4/grade 'C' or above) in Maths, Science and English language.
• Must be 18 years old by 1st September 2026.
• Appointees should normally reside in the UK.
• Applicants must pass an industry‑standard medical examination and undergo background checks in order to complete a placement at sea.

Selection Process & Additional Information

• You can only apply to one bp early careers opportunity globally per academic year; we will only process the first application.
• Assessment centres will be in person; bp will cover reasonable travel and accommodation costs. Availability is required early February 2026.
• After confirmation, you are responsible for organising and funding accommodation.
• Adjustments are welcomed; if you require modifications to any stage of the selection process, please mention this in your application. We will discuss or confirm the adjustments as appropriate.
• This opportunity will not be based at the bp Sunbury office.
• Once trained and qualified you will receive a UK foundation degree or college diploma in marine engineering and an engineer watch‑keeping officer certificate of competency from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA).
• Depending on your academic qualifications, you may complete a BSc (Hons) in Marine Engineering.
• Career progression opportunities include Gas Engineer, 2nd Engineer and Chief Engineer.