2026 Mechanical Engineering Apprentice – Graduate Level Apprenticeship, Engineering for Design and Manufacture
Thales designs and supplies advanced defence and security technology. In this apprenticeship you will support the development of state‑of‑the‑art naval and vehicle systems for the UK MoD and export customers.
Key Details
* Start Date: 07 September 2026
* Salary: £24,000 per annum
* Employee type: Permanent
* Location: Glasgow, Scotland
* Working Schedule: 37 hours a week – Monday–Thursday at Thales (or working from home where suitable) and Friday university days.
What The Role Has To Offer
* Earn while you learn
* Job‑specific training experience
* Recognised qualifications
* Support network of students on the programme
* Various benefits and opportunities to grow essential skills
* Permanent role from day one
* Tuition fees for university or approved training providers are fully covered
Key Responsibilities
* MCAD design and development
* Environmental testing and product qualification
* Design for manufacture of mechanical components
* Build prototypes for test and development
Apprentice Programme
Study at the University of Strathclyde towards a BEng (Hons) in Engineering: Design & Manufacture. Work five days a week in the business; attend university one day a week. Upon completion you will move into a permanent role within Thales in Glasgow.
Requirements
* 4 Highers (BBBB) including Maths (a 9‑week Maths course may be required if Maths Highers not achieved in 2026)
* Conditional offer from Strathclyde; must live and work in Scotland during the programme
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)
Recruitment
Assessment centres for shortlisted candidates: February – May 2026. Induction week: 07 – 11 September 2026.
Closing Date
Applications close at 11.59 pm on Thursday 12 February 2026. Roles may close earlier if a high number of applications are received.
Security Clearance
All successful candidates must obtain a Government security clearance: BPSS level followed by full SC clearance. SC clearance is required prior to commencement. Applicants without current SC clearance must obtain it before starting.
Equal Opportunities
Thales is an equal‑opportunity employer. Recruitment is inclusive and barrier‑free. Reasonable adjustments are available for neuro‑diverse or disabled applicants.
Additional Information
Thales empowers employees with flexibility – part‑time, job sharing, home working, flexible start/finish times – to support work‑life balance.
Contact
For questions about the apprenticeship, contact the Early Careers Team or Resourcing Ops for senior roles.
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