At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our engineering team and learn hands-on skills in operations and maintenance.
- Company: RWE, a leader in low-carbon power generation.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn, with competitive salary and comprehensive support.
- Other info: Enjoy networking opportunities and career growth across the global RWE business.
- Why this job: Kickstart your engineering career with real-world experience and valuable qualifications.
- Qualifications: Level 3 qualification in Engineering or equivalent required.
The predicted salary is between 22800 - 25800 £ per year.
The RWE Engineering Technician Apprenticeship programme offers a valuable opportunity to enter the world of engineering technology, earn while learning, and train to become an Operations & Maintenance Technician (O&M) for today and tomorrow.
Key Responsibilities
O&M technicians are an essential part of our low-carbon power generation business. During your programme, you will practice your skills by working in both the operations and maintenance teams on one of our CCGT power stations. Working as part of the O&M maintenance team, you will put into practice learning in your core subject of:
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Control and Instrument Engineering
Along with many other skills you learn along your journey. All our core subjects ensure the RWE fleet remains leading with high levels of availability and is there to provide the UK with security of supply. This availability comes through our diligent maintenance and outage programmes.
In addition to applying your skills in the maintenance team, you will spend time developing your knowledge on shift in Power Station Operations, learning the skill sets needed to develop you towards the role of an O&M Technician. These include day-to-day operations, efficiency, chemistry and commercial, all key elements of the ever-changing flexible power generation world we live in.
Overview of the 3-year programme
Year 1 – 90% of time will be spent with our apprenticeship training provider, learning core skills and completing an HNC in engineering.
Year 2 & 3 – 70% of time will be spent on your allocated site applying your new skills, whilst further enhancing your technical knowledge. The remaining time will be spent at an RWE training facility completing bespoke training courses in areas such as high-pressure valve maintenance, electrical switchgear maintenance, pump maintenance and many more skills. Whilst away from home location, RWE will provide accommodation, travel and food allowance, ensuring reliable pastoral support throughout.
On completion of your three-year programme, you will have earned the following:
- Higher National Certificate in Operations Engineering – General Engineering (HNC), not Operations
- Completing the Engineering Operations course will grant you a BTEC Level 2 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering
- IOSH Managing Safely
- EAL L4 Diploma in Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing (Skill Development)
Upon completion of your training and with these skills, you will be well-equipped to apply for and become one of our Operations & Maintenance Technicians of the future.
What we offer our people
Opportunity to learn life skills away from the classroom environment. Learning a valuable set of skills to help you become the most proficient version of you, these include teamwork, problem-solving and communication. We offer all our staff 2 volunteering days a year. Have you ever wanted to support someone or a group but never had the time? With RWE, you can have that time.
We offer a benefits programme to include:
- Cycle to work scheme
- Holiday buy back
- Vehicle leasing under our FLEX programme
- An attractive pension scheme
Health screening supported by Private healthcare scheme from AXA healthcare. All our team members have opportunities to network across the RWE business be it in the UK, Netherlands, Germany or further afield. Opportunity to develop into roles across the RWE power generation business around the world.
Knowledge and Skills Requirements
We would like our apprentices to have an outstanding analytical and problem-solving mindset, a willingness to learn and develop, whilst being collaborative. Academically, to be considered for our programme you are required to have or be predicted to have:
- Level 3 Qualification in Engineering (T Level, BTEC Diploma or 2 x A Levels). (please note you may apply pending exam results; any offer would be subject to successful completion at the required level)
- Effective analytical and problem-solving skills
- An interest in the energy industry and a commitment to learn and develop your engineering skills
- An individual who collaborates well and possesses good communication skills
- Versatile, motivated, efficient, committed individuals with a positive approach and the ability to take initiative and effectively manage their own workload
Essential Information
Business: RWE Generation UK
Location: One of our UK-wide power stations. While we consider your current location, relocation may be required.
Working Hours: Full time
Successful Applicants will need to be able to attend an assessment centre.
Assessment Centre: 14-15th April (Birmingham)
Salary: £28,717 year one rising to £35,950 in year three
Contract Type: 36 months fixed term (Starting September 2026)
Engineering Apprentice Technician in Knottingley employer: RWE AG
RWE is an exceptional employer that offers a dynamic Engineering Technician Apprenticeship programme, providing a unique opportunity to earn while learning in the fast-evolving energy sector. With a strong focus on employee development, our supportive work culture encourages collaboration and innovation, while offering comprehensive benefits such as private healthcare, volunteering days, and a structured pathway to becoming a skilled Operations & Maintenance Technician. Join us at one of our state-of-the-art power stations across the UK, where you can contribute to a sustainable future and grow your career in a meaningful way.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Engineering Apprentice Technician in Knottingley
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Engineering Apprentice Technician role you’re after at RWE AG.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at RWE AG a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at RWE AG.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Engineering Apprentice Technician at RWE AG, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Engineering Apprentice Technician in Knottingley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Engineering Apprentice Technician, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at RWE AG a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to RWE AG specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at RWE AG
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with RWE AG, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like RWE AG want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
