Weld Apprenticeship (Belfast)
Weld Apprenticeship (Belfast)

Weld Apprenticeship (Belfast)

Belfast Apprenticeship 800 - 1400 £ / month (est.) No home office possible
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Navantia UK

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Learn welding techniques and create high-strength welds in a hands-on environment.
  • Company: Join Navantia UK, a leader in defence and maritime innovation.
  • Benefits: Earn while you learn with competitive pay, pension, and 33 days holiday.
  • Why this job: Kickstart your career in a dynamic industry with endless growth opportunities.
  • Qualifications: GCSE grade C/4 in Maths and English; enthusiasm to learn is key.
  • Other info: Inclusive workplace committed to equal opportunities and personal development.

The predicted salary is between 800 - 1400 £ per month.

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 1 year 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. 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.

Yard Tour Week Commencing 6th April - Approx. 1hrs Interview & Assessment dates to be between 13th April - 24th April - Approx. 3hrs Start dates will be around August/September 2026.

Job purpose: Working with metals to create high-strength welds in 2 welding positions, using at least 1 arc welding process in order to support production at Navantia UK.

What will you learn doing this apprenticeship:

  • Gain hands-on experience through a safe workplace placement, providing vocational training and education
  • Practical on the job training
  • One-to-one dedicated mentoring
  • Shipyard training facilities
  • Opportunity to earn while you learn

Progression: There are numerous pathways for General Welders who may wish to pursue higher level careers in welding. These include progression to Multi-Positional Welder, High Integrity Welder or Welding Instruction and Teaching, Welding Inspection and Managing and Supervising Welding Operations.

Job Duties:

  • Learn how to produce good quality welds using two welding process/material type combinations (TIG, MMA, MIG/MAG, FCAW) and (Carbon and Low Alloy steel, High Alloy Ferritic/Martensitic Steel, Austenitic Stainless Steel, Nickel and Nickel Alloys, Aluminium and Aluminium Alloys) in two welding positions (Downhand, Horizontal, Vertical, Overhead)
  • Attain a qualification in accordance with one of the following standards: ISO 9606 / ASME IX / BS4872 / AWS D1.1 (these qualifications are regarded as licences to practice in welding)
  • Achieve a quality of work to meet international standards for dimensional and surface inspection (Visual, Magnetic Particle Inspection and Dye Penetrant Inspection)
  • Learn the proper procedure in positioning, preparing and checking the welding equipment
  • Learn the proper procedure in receiving, handling and maintaining consumables
  • Learn how to prepare, check and protect materials and work area ready for welding
  • Learn to complete and check the finished weld ready for inspection and report into the production control system
  • Ensure that health and safety requirements are fully accounted for in all the above

Qualifications:

Essential:

  • 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

Additional Information:

On Offer:

  • Competitive hourly rate
  • Company pension
  • Health care cash plan (optional)
  • 33 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 on-line please contact us at people.skills@harland-wolff.com and one of the team will be in contact to help you.

Weld Apprenticeship (Belfast) employer: Navantia UK

Navantia UK is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to kickstart your career in the thriving maritime and defence sectors right in Belfast. With a strong commitment to employee growth through hands-on training, dedicated mentoring, and a supportive work culture, you will not only earn while you learn but also have access to competitive benefits including a company pension and health care cash plan. Join us in a dynamic environment where your contributions are valued, and diverse experiences are celebrated, ensuring a rewarding apprenticeship journey.
Navantia UK

Contact Detail:

Navantia UK Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Weld Apprenticeship (Belfast)

✨Tip Number 1

Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Navantia UK and their projects. This will help you show genuine interest and ask insightful questions during your chat.

✨Tip Number 2

Practice makes perfect! Try out some common interview questions related to welding and engineering. This will help you feel more confident and articulate your skills effectively when it counts.

✨Tip Number 3

Show off your passion! During the interview, let your enthusiasm for welding and learning shine through. Share any relevant experiences or projects that highlight your dedication to the craft.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a nice touch and keeps you fresh in their minds!

We think you need these skills to ace Weld Apprenticeship (Belfast)

Welding Techniques
Arc Welding Processes
TIG Welding
MMA Welding
MIG/MAG Welding
FCAW Welding
Material Preparation
Health and Safety Compliance
Quality Inspection Standards
ISO 9606
ASME IX
BS4872
AWS D1.1
Communication Skills
Problem-Solving Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for welding and engineering shine through! We want to see that you're genuinely excited about the opportunity to learn and grow with us at Navantia UK.

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the apprenticeship role. Highlight any relevant experience or skills you have, even if they’re from school projects or hobbies. We love seeing how your background connects to 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 why you’d be a great fit for our team.

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 and what we’re looking for.

How to prepare for a job interview at Navantia UK

✨Know Your Welding Processes

Familiarise yourself with the different welding processes mentioned in the job description, like TIG, MMA, and MIG/MAG. Be ready to discuss your understanding of these techniques and how they apply to the role.

✨Show Enthusiasm for Learning

Navantia UK values a strong drive to succeed and a commitment to learning. During the interview, express your eagerness to gain hands-on experience and your motivation to progress through the apprenticeship levels.

✨Demonstrate Safety Awareness

Health and safety are crucial in welding. Be prepared to talk about your understanding of safety protocols and how you would ensure a safe working environment while performing welding tasks.

✨Prepare Questions for Your Interviewers

Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask your interviewers about the apprenticeship programme and the company culture at Navantia UK. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.

Weld Apprenticeship (Belfast)
Navantia UK
Location: Belfast
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