Engineering Apprentice (Mechatronics) - Apprentice Scheme 2026

This role is based at Culham, Oxfordshire. 

The scheme requires employees to complete an online Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS), including The Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks for criminal convictions. 

Through UKAEA’s Apprenticeship Scheme, you will build the technical expertise, practical experience, and wider professional skills required for both your current role and future career progression. This is achieved through a combination of formal off‑the‑job learning and on‑the‑job training within a real working environment. 

The Role

As Engineering Apprentice (Mechatronics), you will  build a solid understanding of engineering principles as well as current industry and legislative codes of practice. As your training progresses, you’ll learn to carry out engineering tasks using approved drawings and documentation, develop fault‑finding and testing skills on electrical circuits and components, and gain practical experience using machine tools, powered tools and hand tools safely and effectively.

We have opportunities available in the following disciplines that support this apprenticeship standard:

• Materials Joining
• Additive Manufacturing
• Engineering Assembly
• Mechanical Engineering

The length of this apprenticeship is 48 months. 

Additional Responsibilities:  

• Successfully complete the nationally recognised qualification specified within the apprenticeship standard: Mechatronics maintenance technician / Skills England

• Attend the designated training provider and develop a strong understanding of the technical knowledge and skills required for the role. 

• Act as an ambassador for UKAEA by representing the organisation at external outreach, engagement, and careers events.  

• A minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade A–C (9–4), including Maths and English. 

• Additional or higher‑level qualifications may be required by the training provider, depending on the apprenticeship level and the applicant’s prior qualifications and experience. 

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with others. 

• Demonstrated interest in, and aptitude for, the chosen area of work. 

A full list of our benefits can be found here https://careers.ukaea.uk/life-at-ukaea/employee-benefits/  

UKAEA’s mission is clean energy for all, and we welcome talented people from all backgrounds to help us achieve this goal. We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and strive to ensure fair representation across our workforce. We particularly encourage applications from groups currently underrepresented in STEM, including women and individuals from diverse ethnic backgrounds, while ensuring all appointments are made on merit.

Please note that vacancies are generally advertised for 4 weeks but may close earlier if we receive a large number of applications.