Control and Instrumentation Apprenticeship - Level 3

Control and Instrumentation (C&I) is one of the critical professions at AWE, playing a vital role in their 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 their 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 18 months, you will train in AWE’s 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 and maintaining C&I systems.
• After 18 months, you will join qualified tradespeople onsite where you will receive on-the-job training as a C&I engineer. These placements will expose you to a spectrum of AWE’s plant and facilities.
• 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 AWE’s 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 their operations, making a tangible impact on their mission. If you are passionate about technology and eager to develop skills that are critical to national safety and security, AWE’s C&I apprenticeship is the perfect opportunity for you.

This role may appeal to you if you:

Have an interest in understanding how engineering systems function, understanding safe systems of work, enjoy being hands-on and applying engineering principles to real-life scenarios, then AWE would love to hear from you!

The Benefits:

• A 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 AWE to continue to deliver national nuclear security, threat reduction and counter-terrorism solutions.

Recruitment process:

This vacancy will close on the 22nd February 2026, 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 February 2026, 9th and 20th March 2026. Please note that these dates may be subject to change, but rest assured, AWE will keep all applicants informed throughout the process.