This 4-year apprenticeship offers an excellent foundation for a rewarding career in mechanical calibration engineering. Youâll earn recognised qualifications while gaining hands-on experience working on Royal Navy submarines. \n\nAbout the programme \n\nAs a Mechanical Calibration Apprentice, youâll become a key part of our expert Calibration Services team at HM Naval Base Clyde. Youâll work alongside highly skilled technicians and engineers to ensure the accuracy and reliability of test equipment used to monitor, measure, and maintain complex systems for the Trident and Astute Class submarine programmes. \n\nThroughout your apprenticeship, youâll develop expertise in this highly specialised field, where precision is key. Working with advanced instruments, youâll gain the skills needed to calibrate, adjust, and repair equipment to exacting standards. Your daily responsibilities will include calibrating and fine-tuning test equipment in line with approved procedures, verifying accuracy across a wide range of measurements, and supporting critical safety and performance requirements. Additionally, youâll have the opportunity to contribute to specialised projects, such as designing calibration setups and producing custom testing accessories like switch boxes. \n\nThis apprenticeship offers a unique opportunity to gain practical experience in measurement science and engineering while making a direct impact on the quality and safety of the UKâs defence systems. Youâll thrive in a structured, supportive environment that encourages you to develop and refine your skills, setting you on a path to a successful career in calibration. Your education/training \n\n \n\nAs part of your apprenticeship, you will receive training both on-site and at West College Scotland. Your formal qualifications will be achieved progressively over the course of the programme, as outlined below: \n\nYear 1: Full-time at West College Scotland \n\nSVQ Level 2 (SCQF Level 5) in Performing Engineering Operations \n\nNC Mechanical Engineering â Year 1 \n\nYear 2: 3 days per week on site at HMNB Clyde and 1 day per week at West College Scotland \n\nSVQ Diploma in Technical Services in Engineering (SCQF Level 7) \n\nNC Mechanical Engineering â Year 2 \n\nYears 3â4: 3 days per week on site at HMNB Clyde (if progressing to HNC) and 1 day per week at West College Scotland \n\nSVQ Diploma in Engineering Technical Support (SCQF Level 7) \n\nHNC Mechanical Engineering \n\n \n\nFuture prospects \n\nUpon successful completion of the apprenticeship programme, you will have gained the skills and knowledge needed to progress into the role of Industrial Calibrator, which currently offers a salary of £38,461. \n\n \n\nThere are various career progression opportunities available, including roles such as Calibration Engineer or Senior Calibration Specialist. As you gain experience and enhance your skills, youâll have the potential to take on greater responsibilities and move into line management or leadership positions. National Level 5 qualifications (or equivalent) in Maths and English, and a Science or technical subject.\u202F\u202F \n\nTwo other qualifications at National Level 4 or 5 or above \n\nMany 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. Further details are available at United Kingdom Security Vetting: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/united-kingdom-security-vetting-clearance-levels/national-security-vetting-clearance-levels