Overview
2026 Engineering (Component) Apprentice - Higher Level Apprenticeship in Mechatronics
Location: Belfast, United Kingdom. Start Date: 07 September 2026. Salary: £24,000 per annum. Employee type: Permanent. Location details and flexible working options are provided where possible to support a suitable work pattern.
As a Component Engineering Apprentice, you will develop key skills in electronic, mechanical and software engineering, learn to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications, and gain knowledge of the different disciplines within the Services function. The role supports the team to undertake service-engineering activities to deadlines and within budget.
Responsibilities
- Support the team to undertake service-engineering activities to deadlines and within budget.
- Gain knowledge of engineering subjects (electronic, mechanical and software).
- Familiarise yourself with the techniques and technologies used in the design and implementation of the product.
- Learn to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications.
- Gain knowledge of the different disciplines within the Services function.
- Learn to use Services tooling and software packages and maintain knowledge of current industry standards for all service disciplines.
- Develop engineering skills to become a confident, flexible Component Engineering Apprentice with strong technical knowledge from on-the-job training and college studies.
What the role has to offer
- Earn while you learn
- Job-specific training and experience
- Recognised qualifications
- Permanent role from day one
- Tuition fees for university or approved training providers fully covered
Education, Training and Progression
You will be studying towards a Level 5 Higher Level Apprenticeship, Foundation Engineering Degree (FdEng) in Mechatronics with our partners at the South Eastern Regional College in Bangor. During a 3-year programme, you will have 1 day per week for college lessons and 4 days in business to apply learning. On successful completion there may be scope to progress onto the BEng in Mechatronic Engineering at Ulster University.
Requirements
- We are looking for enthusiastic individuals who are motivated, committed and keen to learn. You should be a self-starter with good time management, able to work on your own and use your initiative, with a genuine interest in Engineering and Thales.
- Successful candidates will show self-discipline and an aspiration to achieve a degree qualification.
- Entry requirements: 56 UCAS tariff points including A level (A2): typical grade CC (including Mathematics, Physics, Engineering or related subjects) or BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Engineering with overall award profile MPP or Diploma in Engineering with overall award MM.
- 5 GCSEs at grade C or above including English and Maths.
- Note: Applicants who already hold a relevant degree are not eligible for this programme. This opportunity is available in Belfast and open to all Northern Ireland residents. Right to Work in the UK for the duration of the programme is necessary.
Benefits
- 201 hours annual leave (plus a company day and bank holidays)
- Company Pension
- Health Care
- Cash Plan
- Life Insurance
- Discount Portal
- Performance-related pay uplifts
- 80 Hours Volunteering (first two years)
Application and Security
Please note, assessment centres for shortlisted candidates will be held between February - May 2026. Induction week will take place 7–11 September 2026. Closing date: 12 February 2026. We will be in contact by the end of February 2026 with next steps. Roles may close earlier if there is high application volume. Further details of the recruitment process are available from Thales Future Talent resources. All roles are subject to security restrictions. Permanent right to work in the UK is required and successful candidates will undergo government security clearance (BPSS and SC) as applicable. Some vacancies may require full Security Clearance; provide evidence as required. Thales is an equal opportunities employer and supports inclusive recruitment processes. For any adjustments during recruitment, please contact Resourcing Ops (mid to senior roles) or the Early Careers Team (graduate & apprentice roles).
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