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- Tasks: Gain hands-on experience in mechanical engineering while studying for a degree.
- Company: Join Cavendish Nuclear, a leader in the nuclear industry.
- Benefits: Earn a competitive salary, enjoy 28 days holiday, and receive a fully funded degree.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national energy resilience and environmental safety.
- Qualifications: Five GCSEs and 104 UCAS points in STEM subjects required.
- Other info: Supportive mentors and career growth opportunities await you.
The predicted salary is between 22800 - 32380 ÂŁ per year.
Mechanical Engineering Degree Apprenticeship
Join to apply for the Mechanical Engineering Degree Apprenticeship role at Cavendish Nuclear
Programme title: Mechanical Engineering Degree Apprenticeship
Level: 6
Salary – Year 1: £22,800
Year 2: ÂŁ25,993
Year 3: ÂŁ29,186
Year 4: ÂŁ32,380
Post‑apprenticeship salary: £43,343
Location: Fleswick Court, Cumbria
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 four‑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.
About the Programme
As a Mechanical Engineering Apprentice at Cavendish Nuclear, you’ll join a collaborative and experienced team working across all phases of the engineering lifecycle. Whether you’re supporting new build or decommissioning projects, you’ll play a vital role in the UK’s civil nuclear sector helping to deliver national energy resilience, meet net zero commitments, and safely clean up the nuclear legacy.
You’ll work on a variety of nuclear projects, from developing new technologies and maintaining essential systems to extending the life of vital infrastructure. 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 support operational teams, resolve technical issues, and inform decisions that impact real‑world outcomes.
As part of your role, you’ll define design requirements, develop 3D CAD models, produce detailed engineering drawings, and carry out scoping calculations. You’ll also prepare equipment specifications, technical reports, and help manage plant and equipment obsolescence to ensure systems remain safe and reliable. Supporting assembly, testing, and operational teams, you’ll offer technical guidance, resolve engineering queries, and manage nonconformance issues, while gaining exposure to advanced engineering tools such as Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software.
Based at one of our key sites in Cumbria, you’ll support major projects at locations like Sellafield. You’ll begin by shadowing experienced engineers, building a strong foundation in design, modelling, calculations, and documentation. As you develop, you’ll take on more complex tasks and gain valuable experience across the full design lifecycle. Every drawing, design, or calculation you contribute to plays a part in protecting people, the environment, and the nation’s energy future.
Throughout your apprenticeship, you’ll be surrounded by supportive mentors and experienced engineers who are invested in your growth. You’ll be part of a wider emerging talent community, sharing experiences and learning alongside other apprentices across the business. You’ll be trusted to take ownership of your development and supported every step of the way as you turn theory into real‑world impact.
Your Education / Training
You will study towards the Product Design and Development Engineer (Degree) Apprenticeship standard through the University of Lancashire. Your training will be delivered through a blended learning model that combines in‑person and online teaching. Each semester begins with a three‑day block of face‑to‑face delivery, followed by weekly online sessions throughout the term. This structure is designed to support both academic learning and practical application. The programme is tailored for engineers involved in product development and integrates key disciplines such as materials science, computer‑aided design (CAD), systems integration, and prototyping. It focuses on equipping learners to create fit‑for‑purpose solutions 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.
Future Prospects
By the end of the programme, you will have earned your degree and gained the skills, experience and knowledge to thrive as a Mechanical Engineer at Cavendish Nuclear – with a competitive salary above £43,000. You’ll also have the opportunity to build on your progress toward professional registration as an Incorporated Engineer, a recognised benchmark of engineering competence. 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. With every job mapped to these frameworks, you’ll have a transparent view of the steps needed to reach Senior Engineer and beyond.
Qualifications
- A minimum of five GCSEs at grade C/4 or above, including Maths, English and Science.
- 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 HL.
- T Level: Merit in an engineering T‑Level discipline.
- IELTS: 6.0 overall with no component lower than 5.5.
Benefits
- 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
Application Process
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.
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Mechanical Engineering Degree Apprenticeship employer: Cavendish Nuclear
Contact Detail:
Cavendish Nuclear Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Mechanical Engineering Degree Apprenticeship
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former apprentices at Cavendish Nuclear on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for you. This can give you insider knowledge and help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by practising common questions related to mechanical engineering. Think about how your skills align with the role and be ready to share examples of your hands-on experience with CAD or engineering projects.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for the nuclear industry! Research current projects and challenges in the sector, and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to initiatives that support energy resilience and safety during your interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Cavendish Nuclear. Get your application in early to beat the rush!
We think you need these skills to ace Mechanical Engineering Degree Apprenticeship
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for mechanical engineering shine through! We want to see why you're excited about this apprenticeship and how it aligns with your career goals.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight relevant skills and experiences that relate to mechanical engineering, CAD, and teamwork. We love seeing how your background fits with what we do!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications.
Apply Early: Don’t wait until the last minute! We review applications on a rolling basis, so applying early gives you a better chance. Head over to our website and get your application in as soon as you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cavendish Nuclear
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your mechanical engineering principles, especially those related to product design and CAD. Familiarise yourself with the specific projects Cavendish Nuclear is involved in, as this will show your genuine interest and understanding of their work.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to discuss any relevant experience you have with CAD, 3D modelling, or engineering documentation. Bring examples of your work if possible, as this can help illustrate your capabilities and give you a chance to shine during the interview.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask your interviewers about the apprenticeship programme and the projects you'll be working on. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the role aligns with your career goals.
✨Be Yourself
Cavendish Nuclear values collaboration and teamwork, so let your personality shine through. Be honest about your experiences and what you hope to achieve during the apprenticeship. Authenticity can make a lasting impression!
