2026 Engineering (Field Service) Apprentice Level 3 Engineering Technician
Start Date: 07 September 2026
Salary:£24,000 per annum
Employee type: Permanent
Location: Devonport
Working Schedule: 37 hours a week, Monday–Thursday 8 hours a day (08:00–16:30), Friday 5 hours (08:00–13:00)
About the Role
You will learn how to work on electrical and electronic equipment, including installation, testing and servicing as part of maintenance for the Royal Navy. You will interpret technical information and perform planned and unplanned maintenance on communication, electronic warfare and sonar equipment. Flexible thinking and structured problem‑solving will be required core skills.
Apprenticeship Programme
You will be enrolled in the Level 3 Engineering Technician Apprenticeship with City College Plymouth. The programme lasts 3 years, with 1 day per week of off‑the‑job training at the college. You will learn safety, business improvement, CAD, machining, fitting, electronics, welding, and preventative maintenance. On completion you will achieve the Level 3 qualification and roll off into a permanent Field Service role.
Responsibilities
* Maintain and service Royal Navy communication, electronic warfare and sonar equipment.
* Interpret technical documents and perform planned and unplanned maintenance.
* Apply structured problem‑solving and troubleshooting techniques.
* Attend off‑the‑job training at City College Plymouth as scheduled.
Requirements
* 5 GCSEs (or equivalent) at grades 9–4 (A‑C) including Maths, English and Science.
* Permanent right to work in the UK and ability to obtain SC security clearance.
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 during first two years.
Application Details
Assessment centres for shortlisted candidates: February – May 2026.
Induction week: Monday 7 September – Friday 11 September 2026.
Closing date: 11:59 pm Thursday 12 February 2026. Applications may close earlier if a high number of applications are received. Apply as soon as possible.
Security Clearance
All successful candidates must possess permanent right to work in the UK and will be required to go through Government security clearance at BPSS level, obtaining full SC clearance. This requires residence in the UK for the last 5 years and evidence of identity and eligibility.
Equal Opportunities
Thales is an equal opportunities employer. Diversity and inclusion are integral to Thales’ success.
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