Engineering Trades Apprenticeship - CNC Machinists

Engineering Trades Apprenticeship - CNC Machinists

Programme title: Engineering Trades Apprenticeship – CNC Machinists

Level: SCQF Level 7

Salary:

• Year 1: £15,974
• Year 2: £22,857
• Year 3: £25,728
• Year 4: £29,274
• Post apprenticeship: £39,129

Location: Rosyth, Scotland

Final date to receive applications: 12th March 2026

Programme start date: August 2026

Role : 67851

Ready to learn a skilled trade and become a specialist in CNC machining? Our 4‑year Engineering Trades Apprenticeship is your gateway to mastering this essential craft while gaining hands‑on experience maintaining the Royal Navy's fleet.

This is no ordinary apprenticeship. As a CNC Machining Apprentice, you’ll be at the forefront of building and maintaining the Royal Navy’s fleet. As part of our busy team of Engineering Technicians, you'll contribute to the build, maintenance, and refit of UK Royal Navy and international naval vessels, including the Type 31 Frigate Programme and UK Submarine Dismantling Programme.

You will have the opportunity to work on a variety of projects such as new builds and upgrades to existing vessels, along with other commercial engineering projects.

Throughout the programme, you’ll gain specialist CNC machining skills and gain hands‑on experience operating CNC machines and a variety of tools, including handheld cutters, hammers, press brakes, and welding equipment. You’ll also be trained in vital fastening techniques such as riveting, adhesive bonding, and seam bending, along with other critical fabrication methods.

The apprenticeship programme will equip you with valuable knowledge and practical skills in areas such as:

• Health and safety
• Planning and documentation
• Engineering mathematical and scientific principles
• Methods and techniques
• Structure, properties and characteristics of materials
• Diagnostic methods to overcome problems
• Interpreting engineering drawings and data
• Adhering to and refining processes and procedures

In addition to technical expertise, the programme also focuses on developing key soft skills, including clear communication, effective teamwork, problem‑solving, attention to detail, and a commitment to ongoing personal development and reflective learning.

Throughout your apprenticeship, you'll benefit from a mix of on‑the‑job training and academic learning at Forth Valley College.

Year‑by‑Year Breakdown:

• Year 1 – August to end of June:
  Forth Valley College full time.
• Year 2 – Full‑time work, applying and building on the skills learned in Year 1.
• Year 3 – Full time work (If you are pursuing an HNC qualification, you will attend college one day per week).
• Year 4 – 100% of your time will be spent in the workplace, with a focus on completing logbooks and fulfilling all qualification requirements.

Upon successful completion you will achieve a Modern Apprenticeship Qualification at SCQF Level 7.

After completing the programme you qualify as an Engineering Technician, specialising in CNC machining. You can expect to earn a competitive salary of £39,129 upon completion and may pursue higher‑level qualifications for career advancement within Babcock.

• A minimum of four National 5s at grade C or above, including Maths, English, and a Science or Technical subject.
• A genuine interest in your chosen trade, along with a willingness to learn, ask questions, and collaborate.
• The ability to follow instructions and plan work with safety as a top priority.
• A team player who demonstrates respect and professionalism toward colleagues, customers, and supervisors.
• Security clearance – must achieve BPSS and SC clearance.

We will provide a supportive and engaging environment where you can grow your career. You’ll also benefit from:

• Fully funded qualification
• Personal development training and opportunities
• Minimum 28 days holiday allowance including bank holidays
• Competitive pension scheme
• Employee share scheme
• Flexible benefits including cycle‑to‑work scheme and employee shopping savings portal

You'll receive real‑world encounters and exposure to exciting projects that help you navigate your future career. You’ll also be automatically enrolled onto our Apprentice Development Programme, featuring digital and face‑to‑face sessions led by wellbeing and performance experts and external partners.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and the programme may close early if we receive a high volume of interest. Submit your application and any required online assessments as soon as possible.

Entry level

Full‑time

Management and Manufacturing

Defense and Space Manufacturing