Nuclear Welding Inspection Apprenticeship (24-month)

The role of a nuclear welding inspection technician will be to provide quality control and welding inspection services for the nuclear industry. You will be carrying out detailed visual inspections, making detailed records and giving technical feedback, as well as, developing the confidence to challenge/question specifications throughout the manufacturing process. You will become trained in other techniques such as liquid penetrant and magnetic particle testing to detect surface breaking defects or you may also get the chance to do volumetric testing such as; Radiography and Ultra Sonic testing, which allows you to detect defects inside the weld. You will need to have the right attitude to health and safety, quality and following instructions.

  • This four-year scheme starts with college training in welding techniques, progressing to a Level 4 Apprenticeship. You’ll work alongside inspectors, learning defect identification and NDT methods. PPE and respirators are required for some tasks, including work at heights and confined spaces. Progress is tracked with an evidence folder and independent assessment in the final six months to certify your technical and behavioural competence.

  • Year 1 training is off-site, covering hand skills, welding techniques, and engineering basics. Years 2-4 involve on-site/off-site work with the welding team, learning inspection techniques (e.g., dye penetrant, radiography). You’ll inspect supplier-made items for quality. Progress is monitored via evidence folders and an independent final assessment, ensuring competence as a Nuclear Welding Inspection Technician.

  • ST0292 Nuclear Welding Inspection Technician Apprenticeship

    Level 4 BTEC Higher National Certificate.

    Level 2 Welding Inspection Qualification, which allows the NWIT to deploy and supervise welding inspection.

    Level 2 certification in two NDT techniques

    Performing Engineering Operations (PEO) NVQ Level 2 in Welding

    Level 3 BTEC National Diploma in Operations and Maintenance (3 units only)

    BTEC HNC in Engineering Manufacture

    Award for Nuclear Industry Awareness (ANIA) Level 2 Qualification

    *Specific qualifications are subject to change and replaced with an equivalent

    What are the entry requirements?

    Minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 (Grades A to C) including 1 Science or Engineering subject.

    Mathematics and English Language at Grade 5 (Grade B) or above

    Functional Skills Level 2 will also be considered as equivalent to GCSE Grade 4 (Grade C). Other equivalent qualifications may be considered.

  • Tasks may involve wearing PPE (e.g., enclosed suits, respirators) and working at heights or confined spaces. Full training is provided, including dress/undress procedures and respirator use. Candidates must pass security, medical clearances, and an annual NDT eye test per BS EN ISO 9712 standards. These clearances are initiated upon a conditional job offer.

  • Year 1 – £23,917

    Year 2 – £26,583

    Year 3 – £29,158

    Year 4 – £31,795

Josh
Nuclear Welding Inspection Apprentice
How did your background such as your skills/studies play a role in choosing this particular programme?

Regarding to my job role now my previous background played a role in selecting this as I knew from school and throughout my life I succeeded most with practical learning however I also valued theory based learning as well, which I discovered the NWIT scheme offers both of these to help progress throughout the apprenticeship.

How has your apprenticeship helped shape your career goals?

On my apprenticeship I get the opportunity to go on placements with a variety of teams which provides me help in succeeding in my apprenticeship as I get a lot of different experiences. My future career aspirations would be complete my apprenticeship to be a fully qualified welding inspector.