At a Glance
- Tasks: Gain hands-on experience in engineering while solving technical problems and working on innovative projects.
- Company: Join the Science and Technology Facilities Council, a leader in research and innovation.
- Benefits: Earn a competitive salary, receive training, and enjoy career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative team environment with excellent training and development throughout the apprenticeship.
- Why this job: Kick-start your engineering career with real-world experience and support from experienced professionals.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs including Maths and English; enthusiasm for learning and problem-solving.
The predicted salary is between 15500 - 19500 £ per year.
Salary: £19,514 per annum (rising annually throughout the apprenticeship)
Contract Type: Fixed-Term, 48 months
Hours: Full-time, 37 hours
Location: Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell Campus Didcot, OX11 0QX
Closing Date: 2nd February 2026
Are you passionate about how things work and love solving technical problems? We’re looking for enthusiastic and curious individuals who’re eager to kick‑start their career in engineering. Whether you’re fascinated by machines, electronics, design, or innovation, this apprenticeship offers the perfect opportunity to turn your passion into a profession. You’ll gain hands‑on experience, work alongside experienced engineers, and develop the skills needed to thrive in a dynamic and rewarding industry. If you’re ready to build the future—one project at a time—we want to hear from you!
About an Apprenticeship at STFC
We’re looking for enthusiastic and motivated individuals ready to develop their skills through formal training and hands‑on experience. As an apprentice, you’ll gain real‑world experience, build technical and professional skills, and contribute to cutting‑edge research and innovation in a dynamic, supportive environment.
Why join the Access Controls and Instrumentation Team at STFC?
Within the Electrical Services Group at ISIS, our Access Controls and Instrumentation team is a friendly, supportive group that values collaboration and learning. We’re proud to have apprentices as part of our team—typically 4 or 5 at any time—so you’ll be in great company.
Qualifications gained
Level 3 Engineering Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship – Single Discipline
What you’ll learn
- To work safely in an engineering environment.
- To follow safety procedures and regulations.
- Technical skills to fulfil your role.
- To perform planned, preventative, and reactive maintenance on a wide range of equipment.
Training provider
Through the training provider Oxfordshire Advanced Skills, you will undertake a Level 3 Engineering Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship which will include:
- Year 1: You will be based at the Oxfordshire Advanced Skills (OAS), Culham rotating through blocks of 4-6 weeks in duration. This will be supplemented with training relevant to STFC and giving a broad engineering foundation, delivered by STFC staff, in conjunction with UKAEA, at the OAS site in Culham.
- Year 2: You will be based at Rutherford Appleton Laboratory (RAL) with training in 4–6-week blocks at Oxfordshire Advanced Skills (OAS) at Culham across the year.
- Years 3-4: You will be fully in the workplace where you will further hone your skills to become an Electrical Technician.
What You’ll Be Doing– Day-to-day responsibilities
- Complete a prescribed program of training to be conducted at ISIS, within STFC.
- Building, assembling, and installing control panels, racks and systems.
- Cable assembly, including soldering and crimping.
- Being part of a team maintaining various access control systems, including secure entry, CCTV and public address systems.
- As an STFC Apprentice you will communicate with staff across STFC at all levels.
- You will work as part of a team as well as working on your own.
- You will also have contact throughout your apprenticeship with college tutors and visitors to site.
Entry Requirements
- 5 GCSEs including Maths and English (Grade 4/C or above)
- An awareness of basic health and safety
- Enthusiastic and motivated to learn, both in the workplace and through formal training
- An interest in science and engineering.
- Good problem‑solving skills
- A basic knowledge of electrical and mechanical principles.
- Self‑motivated, willing to undertake the work required in the workplace and at college.
- An interest in practical subjects and activities.
How to apply
For more information and to apply please click apply within this advert. Part of our application process involves submitting your CV and a cover letter. Your cover letter should address your suitability for the opportunity based how you meet each essential criteria stated in this advert.
We ask some of the biggest questions in the universe, to answer some of the biggest challenges in the world. Together, our scientists, technologists, engineers and business support team explore the unknown across every field you could think of. And they turn what they find into work that changes the world around us. What could you achieve with the world‑leading facilities and experts of one of Europe’s largest research organisations by your side? Join us and discover what’s possible!
Electrical Technician Apprentice employer: STFC
The Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) is an exceptional employer for aspiring Electrical Technicians, offering a dynamic apprenticeship programme at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory in Didcot. With a strong emphasis on hands-on experience, collaborative work culture, and access to cutting-edge research, apprentices are supported by experienced engineers and provided with opportunities for professional growth and development. The friendly environment and commitment to learning make STFC an ideal place to kick-start your engineering career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Electrical Technician Apprentice
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former apprentices at STFC on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have. This can give you insider knowledge and help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to engineering and problem-solving. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or family to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! During the interview, share specific examples of projects or experiences that sparked your interest in engineering. This will demonstrate your enthusiasm and commitment to the field.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the STFC team and ready to kick-start your career.
We think you need these skills to ace Electrical Technician Apprentice
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for engineering! In your cover letter, share what excites you about the field and how you’ve explored your interests. Whether it’s a project you’ve worked on or a problem you’ve solved, we want to hear about it!
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant skills and experiences that match the job description. We’re looking for those 5 GCSEs and any hands-on experience you might have. Don’t just list your qualifications—show us how they relate to the role!
Address the Criteria:When writing your cover letter, directly address each essential criterion mentioned in the advert. This is your chance to demonstrate how you meet our expectations, so be specific and give examples where possible!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s straightforward and ensures your application gets to the right place. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the apprenticeship there!
How to prepare for a job interview at STFC
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on basic electrical and mechanical principles before the interview. Familiarise yourself with common tools and techniques used in the industry, as well as any relevant safety procedures. This will show your enthusiasm and readiness to learn.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, express your genuine interest in engineering and problem-solving. Share any personal projects or experiences that highlight your curiosity and hands-on skills. Employers love to see candidates who are eager to dive into the field!
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare a few thoughtful questions about the apprenticeship and the team you'll be working with. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you. Think about what you want to learn and how you can contribute.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Consider doing mock interviews with friends or family to build your confidence. Focus on articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. The more comfortable you are speaking about your skills and experiences, the better you'll perform in the actual interview.
