2026 Manufacturing Apprentice – Level 3 Apprenticeship NI in Engineering (Level 2 en-route)
Thales Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
Thales people architect solutions that are relied upon to deliver operational advantage at every decisive moment for defence and armed forces customers worldwide. We research, develop and supply technology and services across Aerospace, Defence, Security and Space. Our flexible working arrangements support a range of lifestyles, including part‑time, job sharing and home working.
Start Date: 07 September 2026
Salary: £24,000 per annum
Employee Type: Permanent
Location: Belfast (must be a resident of Northern Ireland for the past 5 years)
Working Schedule: 4.5‑day week Year 1 (Mon‑Thu 8.25 h, Fri 4 h); 4‑day week Year 2–3 (Mon‑Thu 9.25 h); 37 h/week total
Daily Hours: 07:00–15:45 (Year 1) and 07:00–16:45 (Year 2 onwards)
What the role has to offer:
* Earn while you learn
* Industry‑specific training and work‑based learning
* Recognised qualifications (Level 2 NVQ and Level 3 BTEC)
* Permanent role from day one
* Fully covered tuition fees for university or approved training providers
This apprenticeship is ideal for candidates committed to learning and development. Successful candidates will be self‑directed, capable of managing their time, and driven to achieve the required qualifications. The program leads to skilled personnel status upon completion.
Training Pathway:
* Year 1: Level 2 Engineering Apprenticeship (NI) at South Eastern Regional College; working towards a Level 2 NVQ in Performing Engineering Operations.
* Years 2–3: Level 3 Manufacturing Apprenticeship; progress to a BTEC Level 3 Certificate in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering and a Level 3 NVQ in Manufacturing Engineering.
* Each week includes a study day and day‑to‑day hands‑on tasks at Thales Academy.
Requirements:
* 5 GCSEs at grade C or above (including English and Maths)
Benefits:
* 201 hours annual leave (plus 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)
Security: All successful candidates must possess the permanent right to work in the UK and undergo UKSV security clearance (BPSS and SC). Candidates should be ready to achieve and maintain SC clearance prior to commencing employment.
EEO statement: Thales is an equal‑opportunity employer; diversity and inclusion are integral to our success. We provide inclusive, barrier‑free recruitment with reasonable adjustments as required.
Closing date: Applications will close at 11:59 pm on Thursday 12 February 2026. We may close earlier if a high number of applications is received. Apply promptly to secure consideration.
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