Quality Inspector Apprenticeship (Level 3 - Advanced)

As a Quality Inspector Apprentice at AWE you'll inspect mechanical and electrical components used in production and trials environments, work to written procedures and interpret technical requirements from drawings. The role combines hands-on measurement work (from basic hand instruments to precision computer-guided equipment) with academic study toward a Level 3 engineering qualification.

You will be based in the Skills Academy for the first 18-24 months to develop core skills (hand fitting, machining, measuring) before progressing to on-site training. The apprenticeship includes time away from work for specialist training delivered by Farnborough College of Technology and leads to a Level 3 Diploma in Engineering and Manufacturing Support Technologies.

This vacancy is available at AWE locations including Atomic Weapons Establishment, Aldermaston (Reading, Berkshire) and Farnborough College of Technology (Farnborough). The apprenticeship is full-time (37 hours a week), starts on 1 September 2026, runs for approximately 3 years 9 months, and offers a starting salary of £16,750 rising to £23,500 in Year 2 (subject to milestones).