Overview
Join us and help be the energy behind the change. National Gas is the backbone of Britain’s energy system. We’re responsible for securing the UK’s energy while leading the way to a net‑zero future.
This is a four‑year Mechanical Apprenticeship where you’ll train at one of the sites in our West region, depending on your location. Throughout the programme you’ll learn how to support the safe and reliable operation of our gas network.
National Gas runs the vast network of pipes that move gas around the UK, supplying power stations, factories and around 23 million homes. As an apprentice, you become part of the team that keeps all of this running smoothly – your work helps keep the lights on and heating working for people across the country.
What You’ll Be Doing
To kick start your Mechanical Engineering apprenticeship with National Gas, you’ll begin your journey at college, developing the core mechanical principles and engineering fundamentals that will set you up for success. You’ll build confidence in areas such as mechanical maintenance, engineering fitting and assembling mechanical components, giving you the grounding you need before applying those skills on site.
During the first six months of your apprenticeship you’ll be based full‑time at SETA College in Southampton, living Monday to Friday alongside other apprentices from across the country. This weekday residential setup gives you focused time to grow your technical skills, build confidence and learn as part of a supportive cohort – while still returning home on weekends. Throughout this time you’ll stay closely connected with National Gas through regular check‑ins with your local team, making sure you feel supported and on track. Once you complete this initial learning phase, you’ll return to site to put your knowledge into practice, gaining real hands‑on experience with our expert technicians.
By the end of the programme you’ll know how to inspect, repair and service the mechanical systems that keep our gas network running smoothly – from valves and pumps to rotating machinery and pipework. You’ll learn how to spot problems, fix faults and ensure equipment is operating safely and efficiently. You’ll build a solid understanding of how our compressors, pipelines and other assets work to ensure the whole network runs at its best, all while learning to work safely in specialist environments.
You’ll Build Skills In
- Maintaining pumps, valves, compressors and other mechanical equipment
- Fitting, assembling and taking apart mechanical components
- Using precision tools to measure, check and test machinery
- Finding mechanical faults using tools and data
- Understanding and following essential safety processes
One day you might be inspecting machinery, the next you might be replacing worn‑out parts or helping with upgrade work. You’ll work with real equipment in real environments – no two days will feel the same.
We’ll work closely with you and your college to review your progress, providing regular feedback and guidance. You’ll have a personalised training plan that ensures you get the support and development you need throughout your apprenticeship.
About You
You’re able to start this apprenticeship straight from school at age 16.
We’re looking for someone who is proactive and thrives on “getting stuck in”. You’ll be curious about how things work and enjoy problem‑solving. You’ll take pride in your work and be excited by the opportunity to learn how we keep energy flowing safely and efficiently.
The Essentials
This is a 4‑year fixed‑term apprenticeship. To be considered for this scheme you’ll need:
- 5 GCSEs grade 5‑9/C or above (predicted grades if you are yet to achieve) – must include Maths, English Language and Science (or equivalent)
- A cover letter is essential to help us understand why you’re a great fit for the role
- Comfortable with travel and overnight stays
- Permanent right to work in the UK for the entirety of this programme – no visa sponsorship available
- Since you’ll be working on critical national infrastructure you must pass enhanced National Security Vetting, providing a 5‑year UK address history. Eligibility for certain roles may be affected by your place of birth, nationality, current or former citizenship, and any residency you hold or have held. Further details are available at United Kingdom Security Vetting: GOV.UK
You’ll need to live within comfortable commuting distance to one of our key sites listed (Lockerley, Bristol or Exeter).
Cover Letter Tips
A cover letter is a chance for us to get to know you as a person – we understand you may not have workplace experience yet, and that’s absolutely fine! Let us know about your personal qualities and interests. Your cover letter should be no more than one A4 page and include:
- Why you’re interested in working at National Gas
- What personal skills and qualities you have that would make you a great apprentice
- Why you want to become a Mechanical Apprentice – this could be anything from an interest in engineering or practical, hands‑on activities to enjoying science and how things work
What You Can Expect From Us
- Starting annual salary of £24,242, with annual performance‑based increases
- A generous holiday allowance of 26 days plus statutory bank holidays, with the option to buy and sell additional days (capped at 5 days)
- Two paid days each financial year to volunteer for a worthwhile cause
- A generous pension scheme with a double‑match contribution – if you contribute 6 % we’ll contribute 12 %
- Professional development and career progression
- Employee assistance programme offering free confidential professional counselling 24 hours per day
At National Gas we pride ourselves on a supportive and collaborative work environment. We understand the importance of maintaining a healthy work‑life balance and support our employees in achieving it. We strive to create an inclusive environment where everyone can perform at their best. Whether you’re starting out after school or looking to build on your existing experience, you’ll find an apprenticeship where you’re valued, supported and encouraged from the moment you join.
You’ll be mentored by experienced professionals and have opportunities to work on impactful projects. We ensure you gain hands‑on experience, with opportunities for career advancement and professional development.
We encourage all apprentices to take ownership of their journey. You’ll strive to grow and develop, taking advantage of all that National Gas has to offer.
The ‘Nice to Knows’
You don’t need to have a driving licence to start this apprenticeship. National Gas will support you to obtain your licence with partial‑funding during your apprenticeship. Once you’re qualified you’ll be issued a van and all necessary tools.
You’ll start in a large cohort of graduates and apprentices, attending an in‑person induction in early September 2026, fostering strong workplace relationships that will build the foundation of your future networks.
Your Next Steps
You’ll be offered additional support and guidance throughout the application process by our Early Careers team. Eligible applications will be reviewed by a human at every step of the way.
You’re only able to apply for one of our apprenticeship schemes, so please consider this carefully. When reviewing your application, if we feel you might be a good fit for something else we’ll be sure to let you know.
If your online application is successful you’ll be invited to complete a virtual solo‑interview. The final stage is an in‑person assessment with the team you’ll be joining, so please keep this in mind. Support is available towards travel costs if required.
Applications close on Sunday 8th March 2026. Each year we receive a large volume of applications, so we encourage you to apply early.
At National Gas we value everyone’s unique contributions and perspectives. If you require reasonable adjustments to complete the application process, please contact us at .
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