Mechanical Calibration Apprenticeship in Helensburgh

Location: Faslane, Helensburgh, GB, G84 8HL

Onsite or Hybrid: OnSite

Salary: £16,000, rising annually to £38,461 post-apprenticeship

This 4-year apprenticeship offers an excellent foundation for a rewarding career in mechanical calibration engineering. You’ll earn recognised qualifications while gaining hands‑on experience working on Royal Navy submarines.

About the programme

As a Mechanical Calibration Apprentice, you’ll become a key part of our expert Calibration Services team at HM Naval Base Clyde. You’ll work alongside highly skilled technicians and engineers to ensure the accuracy and reliability of test equipment used to monitor, measure, and maintain complex systems for the Trident and Astute Class submarine programmes. Throughout your apprenticeship, you’ll develop expertise in this highly specialised field, where precision is key. Working with advanced instruments, you’ll gain the skills needed to calibrate, adjust, and repair equipment to exacting standards.

Your daily responsibilities will include:

• Calibrating and fine‑tuning test equipment in line with approved procedures
• Verifying accuracy across a wide range of measurements
• Supporting critical safety and performance requirements

Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute to specialised projects, such as designing calibration setups and producing custom testing accessories like switch boxes. This apprenticeship offers a unique opportunity to gain practical experience in measurement science and engineering while making a direct impact on the quality and safety of the UK’s defence systems. You’ll thrive in a structured, supportive environment that encourages you to develop and refine your skills, setting you on a path to a successful career in calibration.

Education / Training

As part of your apprenticeship, you will receive training both on-site and at West College Scotland. Your formal qualifications will be achieved progressively over the course of the programme, as outlined below:

• Year 1: Full‑time at West College Scotland
  SVQ Level 2 (SCQF Level 5) in Performing Engineering Operations
  NC Mechanical Engineering – Year 1
• Year 2: 3 days per week on site at HMNB Clyde and 1 day per week at West College Scotland
  SVQ Diploma in Technical Services in Engineering (SCQF Level 7)
  NC Mechanical Engineering – Year 2
• Years 3–4: 3 days per week on site at HMNB Clyde (if progressing to HNC) and 1 day per week at West College Scotland
  SVQ Diploma in Engineering Technical Support (SCQF Level 7)
  HNC Mechanical Engineering

Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship programme, you will have gained the skills and knowledge needed to progress into the role of Industrial Calibrator, which currently offers a salary of £38,461. There are various career progression opportunities available, including roles such as Calibration Engineer or Senior Calibration Specialist. As you gain experience and enhance your skills, you’ll have the potential to take on greater responsibilities and move into line management or leadership positions.

What you’ll need

National Level 5 qualifications (or equivalent) in Maths and English, and a Science or technical subject. Two other qualifications at National Level 4 or 5 or above. Many apprenticeship programmes are subject to Security Clearance and Trade Control restrictions; for this programme, you must be able to achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and Security Check (SC) clearance.

What you’ll get

We’ll provide you with a supportive and engaging environment where you can 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
• Employee share scheme
• Flexible benefits including cycle to work scheme and employee shopping savings portal

You’ll also have the chance to get involved in our STEM outreach activities and volunteering opportunities, which our apprentices find incredibly rewarding. It’s hard to beat the variety of fantastic opportunities and business experiences you’ll receive. You can expect real‑world encounters and exposure to exciting projects that will really help you navigate where you want to take your career. Plus, when you join us, you’ll be automatically enrolled onto our Apprentice Development Programme. Through a series of digital and face‑to‑face sessions, presented by wellbeing and performance experts and our external partners, we will equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to thrive and perform at your very best on your programme and beyond.

Application process and closing dates

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and the programme may close early if we receive a high volume of interest. To give yourself the best chance of being considered, we strongly recommend submitting your application and completing any required online assessments as soon as possible.