AWE – Control and Instrumentation Maintenance – Level 3 Apprenticeship

AWE – Control and Instrumentation Maintenance – Level 3 Apprenticeship

Join Pathway CTM to apply for the AWE – Control and Instrumentation Maintenance – Level 3 Apprenticeship
. This role is part of the Science Industry Maintenance Technical (ST0249) standard and offers a structured 36‑month apprenticeship with 3 additional months for the End Point Assessment.

We’re a team of remarkable people united by one extraordinary mission: keeping the UK safe and secure. AWE’s independent nuclear deterrent has existed for 75 years and is critical to national security. This apprenticeship gives you the opportunity to learn and contribute to that mission.

As a Control and Instrumentation Apprentice you will work alongside qualified trades people and engineers. Your daily tasks will include:

• Diagnosing and troubleshooting PLCs, DCS and other industrial control systems.
• Calibrating and maintaining sensors, transmitters and gauges.
• Developing and implementing control systems that adjust processes based on real‑time measurements.
• Using hardware and software tools to design, automate and maintain machinery.

During the apprenticeship you will:

• Spend the first 18 months in the Skills Academy and at Farnborough College of Technology, learning electronic/electrical theory, project design, fault‑finding and system maintenance.
• Join qualified trades people onsite for on‑the‑job training, exposing you to a spectrum of plant and facility systems.

• Practical aptitude for engineering or technology.
• Computer literacy (PC).
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills.
• Awareness of health and safety.
• Ability to follow instructions.
• Passion and motivation for the profession.

• 5 GCSEs at grade 4/C or above, including Maths and English.
• Minimum age 16 (as of 31st August 2026).
• Must be a British National.
• Level 3 Diploma in Engineering is advantageous for a degree‑level apprenticeship option.

• Starting salary £16,750, increasing to £23,500 in Year 2 and annually thereafter subject to milestones.
• Market‑leading contributory pension scheme.
• Generous holiday entitlement: 270 hours a year (including Bank Holidays) plus every other Friday off.
• Access to employee discounts portal.
• Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services.

Aldermaston/Reading area.

Tues­day 1st September 2026. No annual leave until 2nd October 2026 due to mandatory induction.

Online Application – apply for an apprenticeship, taking time to choose the one that matches your interests.
Online Test – if successful you’ll receive an invitation to complete assessment tests (numerical, verbal, logical, cognitive).
In‑Person Assessment – successful candidates are invited to an assessment centre scheduled for 23rd February, 9th and 20th March 2026.

All stages are governed by Health & Safety at Work Regulations. Candidates must obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance and be willing to work in designated AWE areas.

AWE encourages diverse applicants and offers adjustments during the application process. All inclusion information is stored in accordance with GDPR and kept separate from CVs and interview decisions. Feel free to let us know of any accommodation needs.

For questions, contact the Early Careers Team: