AWE – Precision Machining – Level 3 Apprenticeship

Job Title

AWE – Precision Machining – Level 3 Apprenticeship at Pathway CTM

We’re a team of remarkable people, united by one extraordinary mission: keeping the UK safe and secure. The UK’s independent nuclear deterrent has existed for 75 years to deter the most extreme threats to our national security and way of life, helping to guarantee our safety and that of our NATO allies.

Our work is critical. We’re delivering Astraea, the next warhead for the UK’s nuclear deterrent and pushing the boundaries of nuclear science and technology. We support the UK government in areas ranging from counter‑terrorism to global nuclear test monitoring to building a world‑class community of experts in nuclear science.

At AWE, you’ll find more than just a job. You’ll find purpose, growth, and a community like no other. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your career to the next level, this is your chance to learn from the best, develop your skills, and be part of something truly unique.

Precision machining is the manufacturing of components on various machines. During the first part of your training as a Precision Machining Apprentice (Years 1 & 2) you will learn basic machining and hand‑fitting skills through a series of supervised tasks, manufacturing a number of useful engineering tools.

You will attend a variety of lectures, through college day release, that provide the knowledge and understanding of the tools and techniques you will be using. You will also gain information about the materials, manufacturing equipment and processes you will follow throughout your career.

Apprentice work on a variety of machines within the academy including:

• Manual Centre lathes
• Manual vertical and horizontal milling machines
• Surface grinders
• Pillar drills
• Computer numerical controlled (CNC) lathes & CNC milling machines

In the second part of your training (Years 3 & 4) you will undertake advanced machining tasks in on‑site rotational placements, exposing you to CNC milling and turning machines and the facilities you will work in.

Throughout the apprenticeship you will gather evidence to demonstrate your Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours (KSBs) against the Apprenticeship Standard. In the final six months you will complete the End Point Assessment.

Upon completion you will be a craft machinist, operating a variety of machine tools in different workshop environments, including machining metals, non‑metallics, fissile materials and explosives.

• Good at following health and safety requirements for the equipment you operate.
• Ability to concentrate and have patience when setting up complex machining tasks.
• Good people and communication skills, working with team members (draughtsmen, planners, inspectors, customers).

• 5 GCSEs at grade 4/C or above, including Maths and English
• Applicants must be aged 16 or over, as of 31 August 2026 due to security clearance requirements
• Must be a British National to apply for a role with us.
• If you hold a Level 3 Diploma in Engineering or similar, consider applying for a degree level apprenticeship.

Machining Technician ST1305

Technical Certificate – City and Guilds Machining Technician (1273)

Farnborough College of Technology

42 months plus 3 months End Point Assessment

• A starting salary of £16,750 yearly, increasing to £23,500 in Year 2 and annually thereafter — 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

Aldermaston / Reading area

Tuesday 1 September 2026

This vacancy will close on 22 February 2026, but we review applications as they come in, so we strongly encourage you to apply early.

The application process is designed to be fair and transparent and consists of three steps:

• Online application:…