Plumbing Apprentice

Could you look after all the Army’s heating and plumbing, all over the world? It’s a big job – but you’ll get great training and support.

Everything you need to know about the role, requirements and what you’ll gain.

You can join between the ages of 16 – 36. At the time of your application you will need to be between 15 years & 7 months old and 35 years & 6 months old.

You can start your training as a Junior Soldier at the Army Foundation College from the age of 16 years and 6 months.

GCSE Grade A–C/9-5 or Scottish National 5 grade A-C, in Maths and

GCSE Grade A–C/9-4, or Scottish National 5 grade A-C, in English Language and one other subject.

Unsure about any requirements? Our recruitment team is here to help.

• Study plumbing and pipe fittings
• Learn to install and maintain heating systems
• Learn how to make heat-loss calculations
• Become proficient in basic technical drawings

Step 1 – Your initial military training teaches you how to be a soldier, covering everything from fieldcraft to handling a rifle. If you join as a Junior Soldier (under 17 years and 6 months) you’ll do basic military training  you join as a Regular Soldier (over 17 years and 6 months) you’ll do the regular adult basic training.

Step 2 – You head to the Royal School of Military Engineering Regiment near Camberley, Surrey, for 12 weeks, learning military engineering skills such as knots and lashings, demolition, mine warfare and bridge building. You then attend the Royal School of Military Engineering in Chatham, Kent, for 34 weeks, learning about water supply, heating systems, roofing, basic gas supply and appliances.

You’ll earn £27,282 a year from the start of your training, which will go up as you progress throughout your career.

Level 3 Military Engineering Construction Technician Apprenticeship (pathways: Heating and Plumbing, Carpenter and Joiner, Building & Structural Finisher, Plant Operator Mechanic)

From application to training, you can expect a timeline of around 3–6 months.

1. 1–2 days – Complete your online application form with details about education, work history, and motivation.

2. 1–2 weeks – Meet with an Army Recruiter to discuss your application and next steps.

3. 1–3 months – Medical checks and record verification.

4. 2 days – Attend a residential assessment centre for fitness tests, cognitive assessments, medical examinations, and team exercises.

5. 3–5 months – Background and security checks.

Train in modern gyms and facilities. You’ll receive training, support and career development from day one. You’ll experience a structured routine, community and opportunities to work and train in the UK and overseas.

As a Royal Engineer you can expect opportunities to work on projects worldwide, developing skills in air conditioning, refrigeration, heating, water and plumbing systems.

Every Plumber starts exactly where you are now. Take the first step – train in painting and plastering, then work on the Army’s biggest building projects around the world, gaining qualifications and an exciting lifestyle.