At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as a Process and Plant Engineer Degree Apprentice, working on exciting projects for national security.
- Company: Babcock, a global leader in engineering with a focus on innovation and safety.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, fully funded degree, and flexible benefits including 28 days holiday.
- Other info: Dynamic apprenticeship with excellent career growth and mentoring opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while gaining hands-on experience and a BEng qualification.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in Maths and English, plus three A levels or equivalent STEM qualifications.
The predicted salary is between 27381 - 27381 £ per year.
Join Babcock as a Process and Plant Engineer Degree Apprentice and, over the course of our five-year programme, you’ll work towards a BEng in Professional Engineering (Science Industry Process/Plant Engineer) while contributing to projects that support national security. You'll learn from experienced professionals, gain valuable practical experience and help deliver work that creates a safer, more secure world.
About the programme
Based at Devonport, the largest naval base in Western Europe, you'll join a targeted development programme designed to prepare you for a successful career in process and plant engineering. You'll contribute to projects involving nuclear process systems and plant equipment that support submarine maintenance, helping to ensure critical infrastructure remains safe, compliant and operational. Throughout your apprenticeship, you'll support engineering design and technical assurance activities within a nuclear-regulated environment, completing placements across teams including Design Delivery, Technical and Operational Support, Safety Engineering, Engineering Management, Operations and Maintenance, Reactor Commissioning, and Radioactive Waste Management.
Day-to-day, you'll work alongside experienced engineers to support the production of design documentation, carry out engineering calculations and analyses, and contribute to projects across the engineering lifecycle, while developing your knowledge of engineering software, tools, codes and standards. You'll also support inspections and validations in operational environments.
Your education/training
As part of your apprenticeship, you'll study for a BEng in Professional Engineering (Science Industry Process/Plant Engineer) through Aston University. Delivered through a block-release study model, the degree covers the essentials of professional engineering, including mathematics and science, while specialising in process and plant engineering. You'll study topics such as computer-aided design, thermo-fluid sciences, engineering management, sustainable engineering and project management, among others. Alongside your studies, you'll complete placements across specialist teams at Devonport, applying your learning to real projects while benefiting from dedicated technical training, mentoring and support from experienced engineers. You'll need to be able to work on site at Devonport for a minimum of three days per week and live within a reasonable commuting distance. Throughout the programme, you'll attend Aston University in Birmingham on a block-release basis.
Future prospects
This apprenticeship provides a strong foundation for a long-term career in process and plant engineering. Upon successful completion of the programme, you'll progress into an engineering design delivery or through-life operational support role. You’ll also have the opportunity to build on your progress toward professional registration as an Incorporated or Chartered Engineer, a recognised benchmark of engineering competence, which can support your journey into more advanced roles, such as Senior Engineer. As a global organisation, Babcock provides countless opportunities to enhance your skills and advance your career. To support your growth, we’ve introduced the Babcock Role Framework, which outlines roles, career pathways, and development opportunities.
What you’ll need
You need GCSEs at grade 4 or above in Maths and English, and three A levels at grades CCC or above, including a mathematics-based subject and a STEM subject, or equivalent STEM-related BTEC qualifications at grade DMM or above. Many of our programmes are subject to Security Clearance and Trade Control restrictions which mean that your place of birth, nationality, citizenship, or residency you hold or have held may impact which programmes you are eligible for. For this programme, you must be able to achieve and maintain Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS), Security Check (SC) and Naval Nuclear Propulsion Information (NNPI) clearance. Under applicable national security legislation, this post may only be occupied by a sole UK national.
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
- Competitive pension scheme
- 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.
Your career development
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.
Application process and important information
Applications are reviewed in the order they are received, and if there’s a high level of interest in this programme, we may close applications earlier than advertised. To give yourself the best chance of being considered, we recommend submitting your application and completing any required online assessments as soon as possible. Please apply to one programme only. If we receive more than one application from you, we’ll assess the first one submitted. If your chosen programme becomes oversubscribed, we may contact you to discuss other programmes you could be eligible for. We're a Disability Confident Employer. If you require additional support or adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know when you apply. Our team will contact you after receiving your application to discuss your requirements and the support available. We’re committed to building an inclusive culture where everyone’s free to thrive. We are happy to talk about flexible working – please ask about alternative patterns of work at interview.
Process and Plant Engineer Degree Apprentice in Plymouth employer: Babcock
Babcock is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation and leadership thrive. With competitive compensation, generous benefits, and a strong commitment to employee development, you will have the opportunity to shape the future of asset management while enjoying a healthy work-life balance in beautiful locations like Bristol, Plymouth, and Helensburgh. Join us to be part of a global organisation dedicated to making a meaningful impact on national security and public infrastructure.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Process and Plant Engineer Degree Apprentice in Plymouth
✨Get Hands-On at Local Workshops
Don’t miss out on local engineering workshops and hackathons! They’re a brilliant way to learn something new, meet fellow aspiring engineers, and often, company reps will be scouting for fresh talent. Plus, you can mention your hands-on experiences at these events during your interviews!
✨Join Engineering Societies and Clubs
Get involved with engineering societies at your school or in your area. These communities often host talks, networking events, and even competitions, which can open doors to apprenticeship opportunities. Plus, chatting with industry professionals is never a bad idea!
✨Show Off Your Passion Online
Consider starting a blog or a social media account where you can share your engineering projects, ideas, and learnings. This not only demonstrates your passion but also your initiative. Share the link on your application to really showcase who you are!
✨Don’t Wait, Apply Early!
Apprenticeships often have early application windows, so keep an eye on Babcock’s website and get your applications in as soon as you can. The earlier you apply, the more likely you are to secure an interview and land that coveted position!
We think you need these skills to ace Process and Plant Engineer Degree Apprentice in Plymouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for an engineering apprenticeship at Babcock, make sure to highlight any relevant technical skills and subjects you've excelled in. Include specific projects or coursework that demonstrate your understanding of engineering principles—anything from physics projects to CAD designs can really make your application stand out!
Include Your Learning Experience:Since this is an apprenticeship, we want to see how keen you are to learn. In your cover letter, talk about what you hope to gain from this opportunity at Babcock and how it aligns with your career goals. Don’t be shy—express your enthusiasm for getting hands-on experience!
Tailor Your CV for Engineering:Make sure your CV reflects your passion for engineering. List relevant coursework, skills, and any hands-on experiences like workshops or engineering clubs. Feel free to use a clear and structured layout so it's easy for the hiring team at Babcock to see your qualifications at a glance.
Keep it Visual—If Possible!:If you've worked on any engineering projects, consider including visual elements in your application—like pictures, graphs or even a small portfolio link. This isn’t mandatory, but visuals can help us appreciate your work and problem-solving skills more effectively!
How to prepare for a job interview at Babcock
✨Showcase Your Passion for Engineering
Since you're applying for an apprenticeship, it’s crucial to demonstrate your genuine enthusiasm for engineering. Be ready to talk about any projects you've done, be it in school or in your spare time, as this shows your commitment and eagerness to learn on the job at Babcock.
✨Get Hands-On with Technical Questions
Expect some technical queries related to basic engineering principles. Brush up on subjects you’ve covered in your studies, such as materials science or thermodynamics. They might throw a scenario your way to gauge how you would approach solving a problem—don't be afraid to think aloud!
✨Demonstrate Your Teamwork Skills
Apprenticeships often require working in teams, so be prepared to discuss how you've worked with others in school or during any group projects. Share specific examples that reflect your ability to collaborate and communicate effectively, as this is highly valued in engineering roles at Babcock.
✨Ask About Learning Opportunities
Make sure to prepare some questions about the apprenticeship itself, like how training will be structured or the types of projects you'll tackle. Showing curiosity about your growth will impress the interviewers at Babcock, demonstrating that you're ready to dive into the learning experience.
