At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us to learn and develop skills in engineering operations across various disciplines.
- Company: Navantia UK, a leader in defence and maritime innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, pension, 31 days holiday, and life assurance.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace committed to equal opportunities and personal growth.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in a dynamic industry with real impact on national security.
- Qualifications: GCSE grade C/4 in Maths and English; enthusiasm and initiative are key.
The predicted salary is between 18500 - 25000 € per year.
Full-time Location: Arnish
Navantia UK is a new force in British industry, supporting the UK’s defence, energy and maritime ambitions. We’re doing this by creating state‑of‑the‑art sovereign defence capabilities, investing in the UK to modernise industrial facilities, and bolstering the nation's energy security. Established in 2022, Navantia UK is a subsidiary of Navantia SA, a Spanish state‑owned company with over 300 years of naval shipbuilding history. In January 2025, Navantia UK completed the acquisition of Harland & Wolff and its four historic facilities in Belfast, Appledore, Methil, and Arnish. By combining Harland & Wolff’s proud heritage and facilities with Navantia’s global expertise, Navantia UK is well‑positioned to strengthen Britain’s defence, maritime and energy industrial capabilities, supporting jobs and economic growth across the UK.
The apprenticeship journey starts with a Level 2 in Engineering Operations. This is a general engineering apprenticeship covering Electrical, Technical Design, Fabrication, Welding, Mechanical Engineering. On average this takes 12 months - 18 months to complete. If you have already completed a Level 2 in Engineering Operations or equivalent, you will not have to repeat this. Once you have completed the Level 2 in Engineering Operations, you can proceed with a Level 3 in this specific trade area (Welder, Plater and Pipefitter). The length of each apprenticeship depends on your ability, the type of apprenticeship and the location you complete it in. Level 3 Trade specific apprenticeship on average takes 2 – 2.5 years. Your time will be split between study with your training provider and time putting your skills into practice in the yard. We have dedicated college partners at each yard where you can develop your skills and to provide you with support throughout your apprenticeship.
Start dates will be around August/September 2026. Interview & Assessment dates – Between 2nd April 2026 - 8th May 2026.
Requirements:
- Hold a minimum of GCSE grade C/4, National 5 (or Equivalent) in Mathematics and English
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to use your own initiative and a strong drive to succeed are all essential
- Enthusiasm and determination to learn
- Self‑starter and motivated person
- Ability to get on with colleagues and customers
- Commitment to upholding high health and safety standards
- Responsibility, reliability and dedication
Key Interpersonal / Behavioural Skills:
- Ability to establish an appropriate course of action for self and/or others to accomplish a goal
- Effectiveness in identifying possible problems for upward reporting/investigation
- Ability to express ideas or facts in a clear manner
- Professional and pro‑active work ethic
Please note BPSS clearance will be required.
On Offer:
- Competitive hourly rate
- Company pension
- 31 days holiday
- Life assurance
- Great opportunity to kick start your career
We are an Opening Doors employer, committed to equal opportunity and an inclusive workplace. Our approach, shaped by our values of service, trust, excellence, agility, dedication, and you, we focus on removing barriers and recognising potential. We are committed to fairness at every stage, including providing reasonable adjustments and actively working to eliminate discrimination. We believe talent is everywhere, and by widening access to opportunity and welcoming diverse experiences, we aim to create a workplace where every person feels valued and has an equal chance.
If you experience difficulties or are unable to apply for a role online please contact us at people.skills@harland-wolff.com and one of the team will be in contact to help you.
Engineering Operations Apprenticeship (Arnish) employer: Navantia Group
Navantia UK is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to kick-start your career in engineering operations within the historic and innovative environment of Arnish. With a commitment to employee growth through structured apprenticeships, competitive benefits including a company pension and 31 days holiday, and a strong focus on inclusivity and equal opportunity, Navantia UK fosters a supportive work culture that values every individual's potential and contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Engineering Operations Apprenticeship (Arnish)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Navantia UK and their projects. Understanding their mission and values will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to engineering operations. Think about your experiences and how they relate to the skills they're looking for, like communication and problem-solving.
✨Tip Number 3
Network, network, network! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. Building relationships can give you insider knowledge and potentially a foot in the door when applying through our website.
✨Tip Number 4
Be yourself! During interviews, let your personality shine through. Show your enthusiasm for learning and your commitment to safety and teamwork. Remember, they want to see the real you, so don’t hold back!
We think you need these skills to ace Engineering Operations Apprenticeship (Arnish)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for engineering shine through! We want to see that you're genuinely excited about the apprenticeship and ready to dive into the world of engineering operations.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight any relevant skills or experiences that align with the Engineering Operations Apprenticeship. We love seeing how your background fits with what we do at Navantia UK!
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 and potential.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the apprenticeship journey right there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Navantia Group
✨Know Your Engineering Basics
Brush up on your fundamental engineering concepts, especially in areas like Electrical, Mechanical, and Fabrication. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show your enthusiasm and readiness for the apprenticeship.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your communication abilities during the interview. Practice explaining complex ideas clearly and concisely, as this is crucial in a collaborative environment like Navantia UK.
✨Demonstrate Initiative and Motivation
Think of examples from your past where you took the initiative or showed determination to learn something new. This will highlight your self-starter attitude, which is essential for success in an apprenticeship.
✨Understand Health and Safety Standards
Familiarise yourself with basic health and safety protocols relevant to engineering operations. Showing that you prioritise safety will reflect your commitment to responsibility and reliability, key traits for the role.
