Nuclear Operator Apprenticeship - Level 2

What is the Nuclear Operator apprenticeship?

Our Nuclear Operator apprenticeship is a Level 2, 24-month programme that prepares you to safely operate and monitor processes within our nuclear facilities.

A Nuclear Operator is responsible for the hands‑on operation of plant systems and equipment on their facility. Operators will be trained in procedures for plant control and monitoring, sampling operations, environmental controls, radioactive discharges, emergencies and other systems such as ventilation, steam and cooling water and dealing with the handling & disposal of radiological and hazardous waste.

Nuclear Operators promote a positive safety culture, act as custodian for front line operations and demonstrate excellent behavioural standards including the nuclear professionalism standard. Operators comply with all legislative, regulatory and company policies & procedures applicable to the role, follow the Sellafield Ltd Standards and Expectations and align to the Sellafield Ltd manifesto values.

Before applying, make sure you’re comfortable with the hands‑on, varied nature of the Nuclear Operator apprenticeship:

• Two‑Year Programme – You’ll complete a structured apprenticeship with training and support throughout.
• Working Hours – Standard office hours are 07:30–15:40, but there may be occasional 12‑hour day/night shifts and weekend work during your training.
• Work Environment – You’ll spend time outdoors in all weather, sometimes at heights on platforms or over‑head cranes, in confined spaces, and within nuclear facilities. The role can be physically demanding, including general manual handling, moving waste bags, climbing multiple flights of stairs and climbing ladders.
• Safety First – PPE is essential in certain areas, including respirators and protective suits, to keep you safe. Some of our personal protective equipment requires you to be clean shaven and make‑up free to keep you safe.
• Training & Qualifications – You’ll build a portfolio of evidence, gain accredited certifications, and complete a final assessment in your last six months to become a qualified Nuclear Operator.

During your apprenticeship, you’ll develop essential skills to work safely and effectively in a nuclear environment, including:

• Attention to Detail
• Communication
• Critical Thinking
• Data Interpretation
• Emergency Response
• Equipment Handling
• Fault Diagnosis
• Plant Operations Safety & Compliance

In addition, you’ll achieve a nationally recognised qualification in:

• Level 2 ST0291 Nuclear Operative Standard Apprenticeship

We’re looking for applicants who have a good level of:

• Communication
• Health & Safety

The qualifications you’ll need to have, or be predicted:

• 3 GCSEs Grade 4 (Grade
  
  C) in Mathematics, English Language & 1 Science/Engineering subject or ICT subject
• Comparable qualifications approved by Ofqual may be considered equivalent to GSCE grade 4 (Grade
  
  C)

If you’ve studied in Scotland:

• 3 National 5s at C or above including English and Maths (excluding Application of Maths), 1 Science/Engineering OR ICT subject.
• Comparable qualifications approved by Ofqual may be considered equivalent to GSCE grade 4 (Grade
  
  C)

Please be aware that this role is subject to achieving security clearance. This role requires higher level of National Security Vetting where applicants must typically have 5 years of continuous residency in the UK. Factors such as your nationality, any nationalities you may have previously held, and your place of birth can restrict the level of clearance you’re able to achieve.

• Final date to receive applications: 15th February 2026
• Assessment:
  You will be issued an assessment to complete, the date you receive this will depend on when you apply. You will be given a deadline to complete this.
• National Apprenticeship Week: 9th – 15th February 2026
• In‑Person Assessment Centre:
  Wednesday 18th or Thursday 19th March 2026
• Conditional Offers issued between April & May 2026
• Upon receiving an offer, you’ll be invited to attend a skills scan, this is a pre‑requisite for your apprenticeship and will take place between May and July, you…