2026 Academy Engineer Apprentice - Level 5 Higher Level Apprenticeship - Mechatronic Engineering
Start Date: 07 September 2026
Salary: £24,000 per annum
Employee type: Full‑time permanent
Location: Belfast
Working Schedule: Monday – Thursday 0800‑1645, Friday 0800‑1200 (flexible working available)
What The Role Has To Offer
* Earn while you learn
* Job‑specific training experience
* Recognised qualifications
* Permanent role from day one
* Tuition fees for university or approved training providers are fully covered
Mechatronic Engineering unites the principles of mechanics, electronics and software to create advanced products and systems through automation and robotics.
Responsibilities
* Creation of innovative design concepts for missile sub‑systems and vehicle integration solutions using CREO
* Generation of detailed drawings for the manufacture of high‑precision Machined components
* Generation of assembly drawings of electro/optical/mechanical systems and sub‑systems
* Interaction with stress, aerodynamics, manufacturing, procurement and supply base to ensure optimised, robust, cost‑effective designs
* Participate in and contribute to company continuous improvement projects
* Experience of working in a multi‑disciplined agile environment
* Organisational skills with well‑rounded communication and relationship building abilities
Apprentice Programme
You will be studying towards a Level 5 Higher Level Apprenticeship, Foundation Engineering Degree (FdEng) in Mechatronics with our partners at the South Eastern Regional College in Bangor. During the 3‑year programme you will follow an initial rotation plan and then specialise in a particular engineering function. You will be given 1 day per week to attend college lessons, lectures and tutorials; the remaining 4 days will be spent working in engineering departments, embedding your college learning in a real‑life environment. On successful completion of the Higher‑Level Apprenticeship, there will be scope to progress onto the BEng in Mechatronic Engineering at Ulster University.
Qualifications & Requirements
We are looking for enthusiastic individuals who are motivated, committed and keen to learn. You will be a self‑starter, able to demonstrate time‑management skills, work independently, use your initiative and have a genuine interest in Engineering and Thales. Successful candidates will show self‑discipline and an aspiration to achieve a degree qualification.
Entry Requirements
* 56 UCAS tariff points, including a typical grade profile of CC (to include 1 from Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Design & Technology, Engineering, Electronics or Double Award Science/Applied Science). Or, BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Engineering with overall award profile MPP or Diploma in Engineering with overall award profile MM
* 5 GCSEs at grade C or above including English and Maths
Note: Applicants who already hold a relevant degree will not be eligible for this programme. This opportunity is available in Belfast and open to all Northern Ireland residents.
Benefits
* 201 hours annual leave (plus a company day and bank holidays)
* Company pension
* Health Care Cash Plan
* Life Insurance
* Discount Portal
* Performance‑related pay uplifts
* 80 Hours Volunteering (first two years)
Closing Date
Applications will close at 11.59pm Thursday 12 February 2026. Please note, we will be in contact by the end of February 2026 with details of next steps.
Recruitment Process
Assessment centres for shortlisted candidates will be held between February and May 2026. Induction week for all graduates and apprentices will take place from Monday 7 September to Friday 11 September 2026.
Security Clearance
All successful candidates must possess the permanent right to work in the UK and will be required to go through Government security clearance at BPSS Level and to obtain full Security Clearance (SC) before starting. The role requires SC clearance; it would be advantageous if currently held. For further guidance visit the UKSV website.
Equal Opportunities
Thales is an equal opportunities employer and diversity and inclusion are integral to the success of Thales. We are committed to providing an inclusive and barrier‑free recruitment process. Please contact the Early Careers Team for support.
Apply Now
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