Mechanical Engineering Degree Apprenticeship

Programme title: Mechanical Engineering Degree Apprenticeship

Level: 6

Location: Fleswick Court, Cumbria

Salary: Year 1: £22,800; Year 2: £25,993; Year 3: £29,186; Year 4: £32,380; Post-apprenticeship salary: £43,343

Application closing date: 18th December 2025

Programme start date: September 2026

Role ID: 67211

Join our Cavendish Nuclear business and build a career that truly matters. Over this 4-year programme, you’ll study towards a BEng (Hons) in Professional Engineering (Product Design) while gaining hands-on experience on initiatives that support the safe delivery of nuclear new build and decommissioning projects. It provides a solid foundation for a rewarding career in the nuclear industry.

As a Mechanical Engineering Apprentice, you’ll join a collaborative and experienced team working across all phases of the engineering lifecycle. You’ll support nuclear projects, contribute to design, modelling, calculations, and documentation, and help deliver safe and reliable systems across the lifecycle.

Your day-to-day activities will include hands-on experience with Computer Aided Design (CAD), 3D modelling, mechanical calculations, and producing engineering documentation to national and international standards. You’ll define design requirements, develop 3D CAD models, produce detailed drawings, carry out scoping calculations, prepare equipment specifications and technical reports, and assist with obsolescence management to ensure system safety and reliability.

Based at one of our key sites in Cumbria, you’ll support major projects at locations such as Sellafield. You’ll begin by shadowing experienced engineers, building a foundation in design, modelling, calculations, and documentation, and progressively take on more complex tasks across the full design lifecycle.

Throughout your apprenticeship, you’ll be supported by mentors and a wider emerging talent community, with opportunities to turn theory into real-world impact.

You will study towards the Product Design and Development Engineer (Degree) Apprenticeship standard through the University of Lancashire. Training will be delivered through a blended model combining in-person and online learning. Semesters begin with a three-day block of face-to-face delivery, followed by weekly online sessions. The programme integrates materials science, CAD, systems integration, prototyping, and other disciplines to prepare you for product development in regulated environments.

Upon successful completion, you will be awarded a BEng (Hons) in Professional Engineering (Product Design) and a Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship qualification.

By the end of the programme, you will have earned your degree and gained the skills and experience to thrive as a Mechanical Engineer with a competitive salary. You may also work towards Chartered or Incorporated Engineer status.

As a global organisation, opportunities exist to develop your skills and advance your career. The programme maps to career pathways and development opportunities within the organisation.

• A minimum of five GCSEs at grade C/4 or above, including Maths, English and Science, plus one of the following:
• 104 UCAS points from A Levels including Maths and Physics or another STEM subject at grade C
• BTEC Extended Diploma: DMM in Engineering (must include Maths units)
• Access course: 104 points including 15 Level 3 credits in Maths and Physics or STEM at Merit
• International Baccalaureate: 104 points from Higher Level subjects, including Maths and Physics or STEM at HL6
• T Level: Merit in an engineering T-Level discipline
• IELTS: 6.0 overall with no component lower than 5.5
• Security clearance: Ability to achieve BPSS and Security Check (SC). Some programmes may be subject to restrictions based on place of birth, nationality, citizenship, or residency. Further details at GOV.UK.

We’ll provide a supportive and engaging environment to grow your career. In addition, you’ll benefit from:

• Fully funded qualification
• Personal development training and opportunities
• Minimum 28 days holiday allowance including bank holidays
• Competitive pension scheme
• Employee share scheme
• Flexible benefits including cycle to work and employee shopping portal

You’ll also have the chance to participate in STEM outreach and volunteering opportunities.

Expect diverse opportunities and real-world experiences across exciting projects. You will be enrolled on our Apprentice Development Programme with digital and in-person sessions to support your growth.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and the programme may close early if interest is high. Submit your application and complete any required online assessments as soon as possible.