DE&S Electronic Engineering Degree Apprenticeship Scheme in Bristol

Location: MOD Abbey Wood, Bristol, BS34 8JH (Training provider location for initial 10 months)

Duration: Five years

Start Date: September 2026

Salary: £26,320 (annual increments)

Entry Requirements: GCSE English and Maths, 3 relevant A levels including mathematics and a relevant science, or 96 STEM subject UCAS points

Working Pattern: Full-time

Overview

Join Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) to support the UK Armed Forces by delivering cutting‑edge equipment and technology. This five‑year programme offers hands‑on experience as you complete several work‑based training placements whilst completing the BEng Degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering in preparation for engineering roles within current and future defence programmes. You’ll work in a hugely collaborative environment to ensure that DE&S continues to deliver the very best equipment to the front line.

What You’ll Do

• Full‑time college attendance for initial 10 months, learning core engineering skills.
• Practical, vocational, and academic training towards a BEng.
• Technical focused placements in Bristol Abbey Wood delivery teams.
• Opportunities to visit industry partner or other military sites.

What We Offer

• Salary of £26,320 with annual increments.
• 25 days holiday (plus bank holidays and an extra privilege day).
• Employer pension contribution of 28.97%.
• Flexible working options and access to on‑site facilities.
• Professional training and funding for qualifications.
• Access to employee networks promoting diversity and inclusion.
• Huge range of discounts.

Eligibility

• UK residency for the last 5 years.
• Security Check (SC) without caveats clearance required.
• Right to work in the UK (DE&S does not sponsor visas).
• Aged 16 years or over by August 2026.
• Must not hold existing higher‑level qualifications in the same or a similar subject.
• Must no longer be in full‑time education by the start of the scheme.

Minimum Selection Criteria

• GCSE English language and Maths at a minimum grade 4.
• Three full A Levels at grade C or above to include Maths and a Science, or 96 UCAS points from STEM subjects.
• Pass at online assessment stage.

Application Process

1. Apply Online (26 Jan – 16 Feb 2026) Complete the online application form. Submit by the deadline.
2. Online Assessments (Feb 2026) Interactive assessments of ~30‑35 minutes.
3. Eligibility checks (Mar 2026) Review of application for minimum selection criteria.
4. Assessment Centre (Apr 2026) Interview, presentation and group activity in person.
5. Provisional Offer (May 2026) Offer based on merit.
6. Onboarding (May – Aug 2026) Pre‑employment checks.
7. Induction (Sep 2026) Scheme start.

Diversity and Inclusion

As a Disability Confident level 3 leader, DE&S is committed to creating an inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and offer reasonable adjustments for candidates with disabilities. The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities.

Contact

Email: deshr-etcoe-recruitment@mod.gov.uk

Apply now to start your career and make a difference for the UK Armed Forces!