Control and Instrumentation Maintenance Level 3 Apprenticeship - Aldermaston, Berkshire, RG7 4PRJob Type: Full-TimeSalary: Up to £16750 per annumControl and Instrumentation Apprentice (Level 3 Advanced) About AWE We're a team of remarkable people, united by one extraordinary mission: keeping the UK safe and secure. The UK's independent nuclear deterrent has existed for 75 years to deter the most extreme threats to our national security and way of life, helping to guarantee our safety, and that of our NATO allies. Our work is critical. We're delivering Astraea, the next warhead for the UK's nuclear deterrent and pushing the boundaries of nuclear science and technology. But that's just part of the story. We support the UK government in a range of vital areas - from counter-terrorism to global nuclear test monitoring to building a world-class community of experts in nuclear science. This is work that protects lives and strengthens national security. At AWE, you'll find more than just a job. You'll find purpose, growth, and a community like no other. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your career to the next level, this is your chance to learn from the best, develop your skills, and be part of something truly unique. Be extraordinary at AWE. About the apprenticeship Control and Instrumentation (C&I) is one of the critical professions at AWE, playing a vital role in our mission to keep the nation safe and secure. As a C&I engineer, you will work on systems that measure and control various processes essential to our operations. In simple terms, C&I engineers develop and maintain systems that monitor and adjust different aspects of complex operations, such as the flow of water, or the temperature of a furnace. Your role will involve creating, simplifying, and automating these processes to ensure they function seamlessly at the touch of a button. During your apprenticeship, you will learn how to: For the first 18months you will train in our Skills Academy, as well as attend college. This is where you will learn about Electronic/Electrical theory. You will complete individual small projects, where you will be involved in designing, fault-finding & maintaining C&I systems. After 18months you will join qualified trades people onsite where you will receive on-the-job training as a C&I engineer, these placements expose you to a spectrum of our plant & facilities. You will work with advanced measurement systems that monitor pressure, level, flow, temperature, and more. Develop and implement control systems that adjust processes based on these measurements. Utilise both hardware and software to design, automate, and maintain machinery and processes. By joining our C&I team, you will gain hands-on experience with a range of systems, from everyday household appliances to cutting-edge industrial equipment. Your work will directly contribute to the efficiency and safety of our operations, making a tangible impact on our mission. If you are passionate about technology and eager to develop skills that are critical to national safety and security, our C&I apprenticeship is the perfect opportunity for you. Opportunities when you complete your apprenticeship: When you have completed your apprenticeship, you will work as a C & I Maintainer in our Tech Centres on-site. In this role you would maintain and troubleshoot PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), DCS (Distributed Control Systems), and other systems. You will also calibrate and maintain sensors, transmitters and gauges, troubleshoot faulty instruments and replace components. About you: A practical aptitude for engineering or technology Computer literacy (PC) Excellent team working skills Good communication skills Awareness of health and safety Ability to follow instructions A passion and motivation for this profession This role may appeal to you if you enjoy: If you have an interest in understanding how engineering systems function, understanding Safe systems of work, enjoy being hands on and applying for engineering principles into real life scenarios, then we will would love to hear from you! Entry Requirements: 5 GCSEs at grade 4/C or above including Maths and English Applicants must be aged 16 or over, as of 31st August 2026 due to security clearance requirements You must be a British National to apply for a role with us. If you currently hold a Level 3 Diploma in Engineering or similar, you should consider applying for a degree level apprenticeship. Apprenticeship Standard: Science Industry Maintenance Technical (ST0249). Training Provider: Farnborough College of Technology Duration: 36 months plus 3 months End Point Assessment The Benefits: Starting salary of £16,750, increasing to £23,500 in Year 2 and annually throughout your apprenticeship - subject to meeting key milestones and performance expectations. Market leading contributory pension scheme Generous holiday entitlement of 270 hours a year (inclusive of Bank Holidays) plus every other Friday off Access to employee discounts portal - everyday savings on retail, hospitality and leisure Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services Alongside these benefits you will get the opportunity to learn from some of the top leaders in their field whilst helping us to continue to deliver national nuclear security, threat reduction and counter-terrorism solutions. Location: Aldermaston/Reading area Start Date: Tuesday 1st September 2026 Annual leave will not be granted from 1st September until 2nd October 2026 due to mandatory inductions you are required to complete as part of your apprenticeship. Any leave approved after this point will depend on the training provider requirements for your apprenticeship and must be agreed in advance. Recruitment Process This vacancy will close on 22nd February 2026, but we review applications as they come in-so we strongly encourage you to apply early. We want you to shine in your application process which is designed to be fair and transparent. So we've kept it simple with a three step process. Online application: Apply for one apprenticeship; take your time to explore the options and choose the one that best matches your interests and goals. Online test: If successful, you will be invited to complete our online assessment stage. These include online testing against numerical, verbal, logical and cognitive reasoning tests. Don't be intimidated: practice assessments will be available so you will be fully equipped with the knowledge of what to expect. In person assessment: Those successful at testing will be invited to an in person assessment centre. The Assessment Centres are scheduled for 23rd February 2026, 9th and 20th March 2026. Please note that these dates may be subject to change, but rest assured, we'll keep all applicants informed throughout the process. These roles are governed by Health and Safety at Work Regulations and require all candidates to have an Occupational Health pre-employment medical held at AWE which follows the initial selection process. All candidates must be willing and able to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role and be willing and able to work in designated areas. Our ambition is to create workplaces where we recognise and celebrate differences, encourage diverse contributions and our employees feel able to be themselves at work. We strive to create a genuine culture of openness and inclusion and encourage diverse applicants. We encourage diverse applicants and we're here to support you all the way. We encourage you to let us know if you need any adjustments on your application. Any inclusion information you provide us will be used to encourage and support you through the application process and will be held only for this purpose in accordance with GDPR. Learn about how we handle your data. Contact us If you have questions during the application process, please reach out to the Early Careers Team at