Programme title: Engineering Operative Apprenticeship
Level: 2
Salary: £15,
Location: Devonport, Plymouth
Application closing date: 12th March
Programme start date: September
Role ID:
Are you fascinated by how things work? Our 15-18 month Engineering Operative Apprenticeship will give you practical engineering experience maintaining the Royal Navy's fleet of ships and submarines. You’ll develop vital skills in electrical, mechanical, or fabrication disciplines while contributing to projects that help keep the UK safe.
About the programme
This Level 2 Engineering Operative apprenticeship will build your engineering skills in one of three trade routes: Electrical, Mechanical, or Fabrication. Supporting our Engineering Fitters, we’ll train you in core engineering skills like hand fitting, health and safety and general maintenance.
You’ll also receive specialised training based on the trade route you’re studying. If you’re in Electrical, this could include maintaining electrical equipment and systems, as well as learning to form and assemble electrical cable enclosures and support systems. For Mechanical, you’ll learn how to maintain mechanical devices and equipment, as well as repair mechanical components to bring them back into working condition. If you’re specialising in Fabrication, your training may involve producing sheet metal components and assemblies, or cutting and shaping materials using thermal cutting equipment. No matter which route you take, you’ll play a vital role in maintaining the Royal Navy’s fleet.
As part of the interview, you will be asked to select your first and second preferred trade area (electrical, mechanical or fabrication) and explain your reasons for choosing it. This helps us understand your interests, motivations, and how your strengths align with the role.
Your education/training
You will work towards obtaining the Level 2 Engineering Operative Apprenticeship standard.
The first four months of your apprenticeship will take place at City College Plymouth, learning the fundamentals of engineering, such as basic hand skills and the use of hand and bench tools. From then on, you’ll spend one day a week at the college and four days at Devonport Dockyard, applying your skills on the job. Ongoing weekly attendance at college may be required for tutorial sessions or to complete Functional Skills in Maths and English if you do not already hold GCSE qualifications.
After your first year, you’ll move to the End Point Assessment (EPA) phase for your final three months. During this time, you’ll complete a portfolio of evidence showcasing your work and skills.
Future prospects
By the end of your apprenticeship, you’ll be prepared to step into the role of a Production Support Operative, working alongside mechanical fitters, electrical fitters, or fabricators. In this role, you can expect to earn a competitive salary of over £30,.
For those who demonstrate the necessary skills, behaviours, and motivation to progress, there may be an opportunity to advance to a Level 3 apprenticeship after an 18-month period following the completion of the initial apprenticeship.
What you’ll need
1. GSCEs at grade D/3 in Maths and English would be beneficial, but is not mandatory.
2. Excellent communications skills
3. A can-do attitude, a self-motivator and a collaborative team player.
4. Due to ID requirements for entry to the Devonport Dockyard, you will need to provide either a valid passport or a provisional/full UK driving licence. If you do not currently hold one of these forms of ID, we strongly recommend applying in advance to ensure smooth access on your first day.
5. Many 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. For this programme, you must be able to achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and Security Check (SC) clearance. Further details are available at United Kingdom Security Vetting: clearance levels – GOV.UK (
What you’ll get
We’ll provide you with a supportive and engaging environment where you can grow your career.
In addition, you’ll benefit from:
6. Fully funded qualification
7. Personal development training and opportunities
8. Minimum 28 days holiday allowance including bank holidays
9. Competitive pension scheme
10. Employee share scheme
11. Flexible benefits including cycle to work scheme and employee shopping savings portal
You’ll also have the chance to get involved in our STEM outreach activities and volunteering opportunities, which our apprentices find incredibly rewarding.