Craft – Mechanical

36 month programme

What is a Craft Mechanical Apprenticeship?

A Mechanical Maintenance Apprentice trains to become a highly skilled craftsperson within the nuclear industry.

What will I be doing?

During your apprenticeship you will be training to undertake planned, preventative, and corrective maintenance approaches on mechanical plant and equipment such as ventilation systems, pumps, valves, drive systems, bearings, lifting appliances, actuators, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, and nuclear specific equipment. You will use a range of hand and power tools, test equipment and engineering documents to solve problems, and fault find to maintain a healthy plant.

It is essential that you have the behavioural characteristics required for the role, such as attention to detail, good communication skills, embracing change and improvements, along with the right attitude towards safety and following procedures.

You will accurately complete maintenance history, such as job cards, and communicate effectively with different stakeholders to update them on the status of the maintenance.

To perform this role you will be required to wear the full range of personal protective equipment necessary for work in active areas (such as full PVC suiting, gloves and respirators) and to work in confined spaces and at height.

What do I need to consider?

This is a 3 year scheme where time will be will be spent with our local training provider as well as placements on the Sellafield Site.

With our Local Training Provider you will learn a range of hands-on engineering skills. Additionally, you will undertake a Level 3 Technical Certificate that will be delivered on a one day per week basis.  On the Sellafield Site you will work on plant in the active area, within the Maintenance Teams, where you will work days but may be required to work shift patterns in support of your learning, which can involve working weekends and/or unsociable hours.

It is important that you are a self-starter who is able to manage your own time and work independently, as well as in a team, in a physically demanding environment; you will also have a keen interest in learning an engineering trade.

You’ll need to demonstrate a high level of manual dexterity. This includes the ability to precisely handle, assemble, and manipulate small components, tools, and machinery with accuracy and control. Manual dexterity is essential for performing tasks that require steady hands, fine motor skills, and the ability to work within tight spaces, all while adhering to safety standards. This skill is crucial for troubleshooting, assembling, repairing, and maintaining mechanical systems effectively and efficiently.

As an integral part of your apprenticeship your progress will be monitored and assessed against the National Apprenticeship Standard requirements. You will compile an evidence folder, demonstrating your areas of learning with accredited certificates of completion for elements of your training.

Within the last six months of your apprenticeship you will undertake an End Point Assessment, where you will be expected to clearly demonstrate the knowledge, skills and behaviours acquired throughout your apprenticeship and be assessed by an independently appointed organisation.

Where will my training be delivered?

1st & 2nd Years – training is delivered at the local training provider.

3rd & 4th Years – Site placements at Sellafield, in different operating units throughout the business.

What qualifications will I obtain?

• • Level 3 ST0154 apprenticeship – Maintenance and Operations Engineering Technician
  • Level 3 BTEC Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering
  • Level 2 Award for Nuclear Industry Awareness (ANIA)
  *Specific qualifications are subject to change and replaced with an equivalent

What are the entry requirements?

• Minimum of 3 GCSEs Grade 4 (Grade C) in Mathematics, English Language & 1 Science or Engineering subject.
• Functional Skills Level 2 or Key Skills will also be considered as equivalent to GCSE Grade 4 (Grade C). Other equivalent qualifications may be considered.

What are the requirements to do the role?

• Candidates will be required to achieve appropriate security and medical clearances; these will be instigated on receiving a conditional offer of employment.
• You will be required to wear personal protective equipment, necessary for work in active areas (such as full PVC suiting, gloves and respirators).
• You will be required to work in confined spaces or at heights.