Mechanical Calibration Apprenticeship

Programme title: Mechanical Calibration Apprenticeship
Level: SCQF Level 7

Salary: £16,000, rising annually to £38,461 post-apprenticeship
Location: HM Naval Base Clyde, Scotland

Final date to receive applications: 12th March 2026

Programme start date: August 2026

This 4-year apprenticeship offers an excellent foundation for a rewarding career in mechanical calibration engineering. You’ll earn recognised qualifications while gaining hands‑on experience working on Royal Navy submarines.

As a Mechanical Calibration Apprentice, you’ll become a key part of our expert Calibration Services team at HM Naval Base Clyde. You’ll work alongside highly skilled technicians and engineers to ensure the accuracy and reliability of test equipment used to monitor, measure, and maintain complex systems for the Trident and Astute Class submarine programmes.

Throughout your apprenticeship, you’ll develop expertise in this highly specialised field, where precision is key. Working with advanced instruments, you’ll gain the skills needed to calibrate, adjust, and repair equipment to exacting standards. Your daily responsibilities will include calibrating and fine‑tuning test equipment in line with approved procedures, verifying accuracy across a wide range of measurements, and supporting critical safety and performance requirements.

Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute to specialised projects, such as designing calibration setups and producing custom testing accessories like switch boxes.

This apprenticeship offers a unique opportunity to gain practical experience in measurement science and engineering while making a direct impact on the quality and safety of the UK’s defence systems. You’ll thrive in a structured, supportive environment that encourages you to develop and refine your skills, setting you on a path to a successful career in calibration.

As part of your apprenticeship, you will receive training both on‑site and at West College Scotland. Your formal qualifications will be achieved progressively over the course of the programme, as outlined below:

• Year 1:
  Full-time at West College Scotland
  • SVQ Level 2 (SCQF Level
    5) in Performing Engineering Operations
  • NC Mechanical Engineering – Year 1
• Year 2: 3 days per week on site at HMNB Clyde and 1 day per week at West College Scotland
  • SVQ Diploma in Technical Services in Engineering (SCQF Level
    7)
  • NC Mechanical Engineering – Year 2
• Years 3–4: 3 days per week on site at HMNB Clyde (if progressing to HNC) and 1 day per week at West College Scotland
  • SVQ Diploma in Engineering Technical Support (SCQF Level
    7)
  • HNC Mechanical Engineering

Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship programme, you will have gained the skills and knowledge needed to progress into the role of Industrial Calibrator, which currently offers a salary of £38,461.

There are various career progression opportunities available, including roles such as Calibration Engineer or Senior Calibration Specialist. As you gain experience and enhance your skills, you’ll have the potential to take on greater responsibilities and move into line management or leadership positions.

• National Level 5 qualifications (or equivalent) in Maths and English, and a Science or technical subject.
• Two other qualifications at National Level 4 or 5 or above.
• Many of our apprenticeship programmes are subject to Security Clearance and Trade Control restrictions which mean that your place of birth, nationality, citizenship, or residency you hold or have held may impact which programmes you are eligible for. For this programme, you must be able to achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and Security Check (SC) clearance. Further details are available at United Kingdom Security Vetting: clearance levels –  ().

We’ll provide you with a supportive and engaging environment where you can grow your career. In addition, you’ll 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…