High Performance Computing Apprenticeship - Level 3

Working as part of AWE’s High-Performance Computing (HPC) Group, apprentices in this role provide system administration support for AWE’s HPC supercomputers. You'll become part of a team that manages some of the most powerful supercomputers in the UK, supporting computational services that are essential to AWE’s scientific and engineering programmes.

As a High Performance Computing (HPC) Apprentice at AWE, you’ll spend the first few weeks of your apprenticeship within AWE’s Skills Academy before moving into different placements within the HPC group.

During these placements, you'll develop a range of skills, including:

• Linux operating system administration (installation, configuration, and management)
• Linux shell scripting
• Computer hardware (building and repairing)
• Networking
• File system management
• Computer security concepts
• System monitoring and fault diagnosis
• Customer interaction and problem investigation

Training is primarily delivered in-house but may also include external technical training courses.

This role is ideal for those who:

• Have a fascination with computing
• Are curious about new technology
• Are interested in science and engineering
• Enjoy solving problems
• Like working collaboratively with others

The Benefits:

• A starting salary of £16,750 yearly, 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 AWE to continue to deliver national nuclear security, threat reduction and counter-terrorism solutions.

Recruitment process:

This vacancy will close on the 7th December 2025, but AWE will review applications as they come in — so they strongly encourage you to apply early. AWE want you to shine in your application process which is designed to be fair and transparent. So they've kept it simple with a three-step process:

Online application

Apply for one apprenticeship that best aligns with your interests and career goals. Take your time to explore the opportunities before submitting your application.

Online assessment
If shortlisted, you’ll be invited to complete online tests covering numerical, verbal, logical, and cognitive reasoning. Practice materials will be available so you’ll know what to expect and can prepare in advance.

Virtual assessment centre
Those successful at testing will be invited to an in-person assessment centre. The Assessment Centres are scheduled for 23rd and 26th January 2026. Please note that these dates may be subject to change, but rest assured, AWE will keep all applicants informed throughout the process.