Job Details
Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC). Salary: £19,514 per annum (rising annually throughout the apprenticeship). Contract Type: Fixed‑Term, 48 months. Hours: Full‑time, 37 hours. Location: UK Astronomy Technology Centre, Royal Observatory, Blackford Hill, Edinburgh, EH9 3HJ. Closing Date: Sunday, 3rd May 2026. Interview Date: May 2026 / June 2026. Start Date: September 2026.
About an Apprenticeship at STFC
We’re looking for enthusiastic and motivated individuals ready to develop skills through formal training and hands‑on experience. As an apprentice you’ll gain real‑world experience, build technical and professional skills, and contribute to cutting‑edge research and innovation in a dynamic, supportive environment.
You’ll be fully supported throughout the programme with regular check‑ins from a dedicated Apprenticeship Coordinator, structured training, practical experience, and mentorship from industry professionals. You’ll have access to workshops, a peer network, and career development support, helping you feel confident and prepared for new challenges.
About the Role
As a Mechanical Technician Apprentice, you will join the Mechanical Technician Team within the Engineering Support Group, working under the guidance and support of experienced senior technicians.
You will develop practical, hands‑on skills while supporting the manufacture, modification and assembly of precision mechanical, optomechanical and electromechanical components to defined technical requirements and quality standards. Using a range of techniques and equipment such as manual and CNC machining, hand tools and 3D printing, you will contribute to high‑precision engineering work.
The role will also involve inspecting, fitting and aligning components using a variety of inspection and metrology methods, and supporting the testing of parts and assemblies, including the use of specialist environmental test facilities such as vacuum, cryogenic and vibration testing. This apprenticeship offers a strong foundation in mechanical engineering within a collaborative and technically challenging environment.
Why Join the Engineering Support Group
You’ll be joining a close‑knit team of highly skilled technicians whose role is to manufacture, assemble, integrate and test all mechanical aspects of the instruments and projects that the UKATC are involved in. This unique environment could mean you are completing varied tasks from manufacturing components within our workshop on a range of manual and CNC machines; inspecting then assembling and testing them in our range of bespoke cryostats and other specialist equipment; to ensure that they function as the astronomers require once commissioned, whether they are ground or space based.
What You’ll Learn
* SVQ2 and NC Course content: Communication, Mathematics: Technician 1, Engineering: Applying Information Technology, Engineering Systems
* Add‑on units which may be included in your course by UKATC: Preparing and Using CNC Machine Tool Programs, Preparing and Using CNC Turning Machines, Preparing and Using CNC Milling Machines
* SCQF Level 7 course content: Year One – Engineering Maths 1, Dynamics, Thermofluids, Quality Management, CAD for Engineers
* Year Two – Statics and Strength of Materials, Communication, Engineering Materials Selection, Engineering Principles, Engineering Maths 2, Pneumatics and Hydraulics, Mechanical Engineering Graded Unit 1
Please note: Mechanical Engineering Graded Unit 1 and Engineering Principles can only be completed in Year 2.
Training Provider
Edinburgh College (Midlothian Campus)
Delivery: Year 1 – 4 days per week (2 days cover SVQ2 learning, 2 days will be studying NC level); Year 2 & 3 – 1 day per week to study an HNC; Year 4 – Completing the SCQF Level 7 Diploma onsite at the UKATC.
Midlothian Campus – Engineering and Innovation Hub
Manufacture and Maintenance Engineering PEO SVQ 2 – Edinburgh College
Engineering Systems NC – Edinburgh College
SCQF Level 7 – Mechanical Engineering HNC (Enhanced Distance Learning) – Edinburgh College
Qualifications
* Mathematics and English at National 5
* Physics or another science‑related subject
* Awareness of basic health and safety
* Enthusiastic and motivated to learn, both in the workplace and through formal training
Eligibility for SDS Funding
Student must be resident in Scotland and work in Scotland, and must not have completed the same or similar apprenticeship within the last 3 years. Funding is available for age 16‑19, 20‑24 or 25+.
Other Relevant Information
When applying for an apprenticeship, there is a set residency eligibility criteria that must be met. Check your eligibility: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/apprenticeship-funding-rules-2025-to-2026
How to Apply
Submit a CV and a cover letter addressing your suitability for the opportunity based on how you meet each essential criteria stated in this advert.
For full details and to apply, click ‘Apply’ within this Ad, which will direct you to our external Careers Page.
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