Operations – Level 3 Apprenticeship

Prospects; Aldermaston; On-site; GBP 12,000 - 16,000; Full time

Job summary

AWE is offering an onsite apprenticeship in Aldermaston, designed to give hands-on experience in production and process operations within a highly regulated environment. Applicants must have 5 GCSEs including Maths and English, be British Nationals aged 18+, and be willing to obtain the required security clearance; a medical assessment may be required.

Applications close 10 January 2027. The programme leads to entry into one of AWE’s operational units with potential moves into logistics, science

Qualifications

• Practical focus with hands-on problem solving.
• Attention to detail and precise work.
• Safety awareness and responsibility in operations.
• Teamwork and clear communication.

Skills

Practical focus

Attention to detail

Safety awareness

Teamwork

Education

5 GCSEs incl Math & English

Job description

Why this role matters

Support the operational work that helps AWE deliver safely and securely. You’ll gain hands‑on experience in production and process operations, learning how manufacturing, science, engineering and operations teams work together in a highly regulated environment. Entry requirement 5 GCSEs at grade 4/C or above including Maths and English. Applicants must be British Nationals and aged 18 or over by 31 August 2027. Security clearance You must be willing and able to obtain and maintain the security clearance required for the role and work in designated areas. Medical requirement This role can be physically demanding and may require a medical assessment, including suitability for respiratory protection.

Key dates

Applications close: 10 January 2027 | Assessment centres: 1 February, 3 February, 2 March and 4 March 2027 | Start date: 1 September 2027

Why being onsite will support your development

This is an onsite apprenticeship. Being onsite will help you understand operational areas, safe systems of work and the detailed processes used to complete work safely and correctly.

The key skills we’re looking for

• Practical focus: You enjoy hands‑on work and understanding how processes are completed step by step.
• Attention to detail: You can follow instructions carefully and understand why accuracy matters.
• Safety awareness: You understand that health, safety and responsibility are central to operational work.
• Teamwork: You can communicate clearly, ask questions and work well with others.

Where this apprenticeship could take you

When you complete your apprenticeship, you’re likely to move into one of AWE’s operational business units. You may also be able to apply for roles in other areas, such as logistics, science or engineering.

We are AWE.

We are AWE. We're a team of remarkable people achieving an extraordinary mission: keeping the nation safe and secure. Our work is critical. We are responsible for delivering the next warhead for the UK's nuclear deterrent; working at the forefront of nuclear technologies that keep the nation safe. AWE’s support for the government’s strategy takes many facets: from supporting the weapon programme for the nuclear deterrent, supporting the UK’s counter terrorist programme, identifying where there may be nuclear tests taking place around the world, and building an expert group of individuals in order to give the UK real depth in nuclear science and technology.