Operations & Maintenance (O&M) Technician Apprentice - Offshore Wind in Buckie

As an Operations & Maintenance Technician Apprentice, you will develop the skills, knowledge, and behaviours required to support the safe, efficient operation and maintenance of offshore wind turbines and associated infrastructure. This apprenticeship offers a structured pathway into a career in renewable energy, combining classroom-based learning with hands-on workplace experience to achieve a recognised Modern Apprenticeship in Engineering.

As an apprentice, you will support the team in a variety of operational and maintenance activities, including:

• Assisting with routine inspections of assets
• Supporting preventative, predictive and corrective maintenance tasks
• Helping to troubleshoot and repair minor mechanical and electrical faults
• Assisting with the completion of snagging and defect resolution
• Working alongside subcontractors during inspection and maintenance activities
• Supporting repairs to paint and coating systems
• Preparing and transporting tools and equipment to offshore sites
• Using tools, test equipment, and personal protective equipment safely and effectively
• Reporting defects, faults, and performance issues promptly
• Contributing to daily operational reporting using digital systems
• Supporting the preparation and updating of risk assessments and method statements
• Learning to use operational planning and management systems

REQUIRED ACADEMIC SKILLS: Applicants must have a minimum of 4 National 5 qualifications, including:

• Mathematics
• Physics or Chemistry
• + 2 additional subjects

REQUIREMENTS: Candidates must meet the physical and medical requirements for working offshore, can work at heights and in restricted or confined spaces and not be prone to suffering from sea sickness.

OTHER: Fluent English both verbal and written. Strong interpersonal skills. A team player and calm problem solver, self-motivated and able to work independently.

Hours: During year 1 you will work in accordance with hours and location provided by the college. Years 2-4: The role will primarily be based at the O&M Centre in Buckie but will also require frequent travel to the offshore assets via Crew Transfer Vessel, and Service Operation Vessel. It is anticipated that from year 2 the working pattern will be 2 weeks on, 2 weeks off equal time rotation based on a 12-hour working day. Working hours may be subject to change.

Contract: 4 Years

Apprenticeship: Modern Apprenticeship Engineering - Multi-Skilled (Modern Apprenticeship)

Year 1: completed in the classroom; gaining an SVQ2 Performing Engineering Operations, National Certificate and Core Skills at SCQF level 5.

Years 2 - 4: completed in the workplace; Over the course of the apprenticeship, you will work to achieve the SVQ3 qualification at SCQF level 6/7

Start Date: 31st August 2026

Location: UHI Inverness, 1 Inverness Campus, Inverness, IV2 5NA / O&M Base for Moray West Wind farm, Buckie

At Ocean Winds, we celebrate all the differences that make individuals unique. We are building a diverse energy workforce, where differences in every form (culture, background, ability, or lived experience) are valued by all, bringing greater perspectives, ideas, and knowledge.

You might not meet every single requirement listed. But, if this role speaks to you, we encourage you to apply. Potential and passion can be just as important as any other requirement.

We are proud to be a diverse and inclusive team where everyone is welcome, and we’re committed to making our hiring process as open and supportive as possible. If you need any adjustments or accommodations during the process, please don’t hesitate to let us know. We’ll do everything to help.