Programme title: Digital Manufacturing Apprenticeship
Level: SCQF Level 8
Salary:
Year 1: £18,819
Year 2: £22,857
Year 3: £26,884
Location: Rosyth, Fife, Scotland
Application closing date: 12th March 2026
Programme start date: September 2026
Role ID: 67853
Our 3-year Digital Manufacturing Apprenticeship is a fantastic opportunity to be part of the future of shipbuilding and advanced engineering. Here you’ll learn how digital technology and manufacturing innovation come together to support the delivery of world-class defence and marine projects.
About the programme
Digital manufacturing is transforming the way we design, build and maintain complex engineering systems. As a Digital Manufacturing Apprentice, you’ll work with experienced engineers who are integrating digital tools, robotics and automation into our production processes, helping to drive innovation across the site.
Your work will involve using CAD/CAM systems and integrating them with cutting-edge CNC and robotic technologies. You’ll take part in a wide range of activities including fault finding, systems integration, planning, NC programming, Python programming, data analytics and continuous improvement. Alongside this, you’ll gain an understanding of marine engineering fundamentals, control and automation systems, electrical and mechanical systems, health and safety practices, and project management.
Throughout the programme, you’ll build skills in problem solving, technical analysis and validation, communication, and the use of digital tools and engineering software. You’ll also learn how to collaborate effectively, document your work and develop the professional behaviours expected of a qualified engineer – professionalism, adaptability, attention to detail and a commitment to continuous learning.
This is an exciting programme where your contribution will directly support projects such as the Type 31 frigate and the Queen Elizabeth Class carrier maintenance work, giving you a real sense of purpose and achievement.
Your education/training
As part of your apprenticeship, you’ll study with Fife College, working towards an HNC in Mechanical Engineering and a Diploma in Engineering and Digital Manufacturing.
During your first year, you’ll spend two days at college and two days onsite each week, gaining a strong foundation in mechanical and digital manufacturing principles. As the programme progresses, more of your time will be spent on live projects where you’ll apply what you’ve learned to real challenges and start developing as an engineering professional.
Future prospects
By the end of the programme, you’ll have developed the technical expertise and professional awareness to move into roles across Systems Integration, Production Engineering, Planning, Manufacturing Engineering or Design.
Upon programme completion, you can expect to earn a competitive salary exceeding £41,000.
You’ll also have opportunities for further development through higher-level qualifications and ongoing professional training, helping you to continue your journey as a digital manufacturing specialist.
Through the Babcock Role Framework, you’ll have a clear view of how your career can progress, with mapped-out pathways, development opportunities and the tools you need to get wherever you want to go.
What you’ll need
● 2 Highers at grades C or above, including Maths at grade B
● We also accept Foundation Apprenticeships combined with Highers, counting as one Higher at grade B
● Many of our apprenticeship programmes are subject to Security Clearance and Trade Control restrictions which mean that your place of birth, nationality, citizenship, or residency you hold or have held may impact which programmes you are eligible for. For this programme, you must be able to achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and Security Check (SC) clearance. Further details are available at United Kingdom Security Vetting: clearance levels – GOV.UK ().
What you’ll get
We’ll provide you with a supportive and engaging environment where you can grow your career.
In addition, you’ll benefit from:
● Fully funded qualification
● Personal development training and opportunities
● Minimum 28 days holiday allowance including bank holidays
● Competitive pension scheme
● Employee share scheme
● Flexible benefits including cycle to work scheme and employee shopping savings portal
You’ll also have the chance to get involved in our STEM outreach activities and volunteering opportunities, which our apprentices find incredibly rewarding.
Your career development
It’s hard to beat the variety of fantastic opportunities and business experiences you’ll receive. You can expect real world encounters and exposure to exciting projects that will really help you navigate where you want to take your career.
Plus, when you join us, you’ll be automatically enrolled onto our Apprentice Development Programme. Through a series of digital and face to face sessions, presented by wellbeing and performance experts and our external partners, we will equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to thrive and perform at your very best on your programme and beyond.
Application process and closing dates
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and the programme may close early if we receive a high volume of interest. To give yourself the best chance of being considered, we strongly recommend submitting your application and completing any required online assessments as soon as possible.