At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us to create innovative engineering solutions in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Thales UK, a leader in defence and technology innovation.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn with competitive salary and full tuition coverage.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Kickstart your engineering career with hands-on experience and recognised qualifications.
- Qualifications: Passion for engineering and a commitment to learning required.
The predicted salary is between 800 - 1000 £ per month.
Location: Belfast, United Kingdom
Thales people architect solutions that are relied upon to deliver operational advantage at every decisive moment throughout the mission. Defence and armed forces customers rely on us to deliver the full range of defensive systems for land, sea, and air. From early warning to threat neutralisation, our platforms cover all levels from very short-range systems to extended protection across the entire battle-space including Airspace Mobility Solutions, Vehicles and Tactical Systems and Missile Defence, Optronics, and Radar.
Together we offer fantastic opportunities for committed employees to learn and develop their career with us. At Thales UK, we research, develop, and supply technology and services that impact the lives of millions of people each day to make life better and keep us safer. We innovate across the major industries of Aerospace, Defence, Security and Space.
Your health and well-being matters to us and that's why we offer you the flexibility to do what's important to you; whether that's part-time hours, job sharing, home working, or the ability to flex your start and finish times. Where possible, we support a working pattern that suits your lifestyle and helps you reach your ambitions.
2026 Academy Engineer Apprentice - Level 5 Higher Level Apprenticeship - Mechatronic Engineering
Start Date: 07 September 2026
Salary: £24,000 per annum
Employee type: Permanent
Location: Belfast
Working Schedule: Monday to Thursday, Friday (flexible working available)
Are you passionate about engineering? Do you have an inquisitive mind? Do you want to be part of an Apprentice Programme that will develop and challenge you? If so, then look no further.
Our Mechatronics apprenticeship will let you explore different types of engineering before you make an informed decision to specialise in Hardware (Mechanical or Electrical), Software or Systems Engineering.
What the role has to offer:
- Earn while you learn
- Job specific training experience
- Recognised qualifications
- Permanent role from day one
- Tuition fees for university or approved training providers are fully covered
Mechatronic Engineering unites the principles of mechanics, electronics and software. It combines mechanical engineering, problem solving and design skills with expertise in digital electronics and computing systems to produce advanced products and systems through automation and the use of robotics.
Our exciting Apprentice Engineer roles will develop your mechatronic engineering skills to become a confident, positive and flexible engineer with well-honed technical knowledge. You will support the team to deliver solutions to deadline and budget.
Example activities include:
- Creation of innovative design concepts for missile sub-systems and vehicle integration solutions using CREO
- Generation of detailed drawings for the manufacture of high precision-machined components
- Generation of assembly drawings of electro/optical/mechanical systems and sub-systems
- Interaction with stress, aerodynamics, manufacturing, procurement and supply base to ensure optimised, robust, cost-effective designs
- Participate in and contribute to company continuous improvement projects
- Experience of working in a multi-disciplined agile environment
- Organisational skills with well-rounded communication and relationship building abilities
Apprentice Programme
You will be studying towards a Level 5 Higher Level Apprenticeship, Foundation Engineering Degree (FdEng) in Mechatronics with our partners at the South Eastern Regional College in Bangor. During the 3 year programme you will follow an initial rotation plan and then specialise in a particular engineering function. You will be given 1 day per week to attend college lessons, lectures and tutorials. For the other 4 days you will be working in engineering departments, embedding your college learning in a real-life engineering environment. On successful completion of the Higher-Level Apprenticeship, there will be scope to progress onto the BEng in Mechatronic Engineering at Ulster University.
Requirements:
We are looking for enthusiastic individuals who are motivated, committed and keen to learn. You will be a self-starter, able to demonstrate time management skills, working on your own, using your initiative and have a genuine interest in Engineering and Thales. Successful candidates will show self-discipline and an aspiration to achieve a degree qualification.
Entry requirements:
- 56 UCAS tariff points including: A Level (A2): Typical grade profile CC (to include 1 from Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Design & Technology, Engineering, Electronics or Double Award Science/Applied Science).
- Or, BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Engineering with overall award profile MPP or Diploma in Engineering with overall award profile MM
- 5 GCSEs at grade C or above including English and Maths
Please Note: due to funding obligations (i) applicants who already hold a relevant degree will not be eligible for this programme (ii) this opportunity is available in Belfast and open to all Northern Ireland residents.
Benefits:
201 hours annual leave (plus a company day)
2026 Academy Engineer Apprentice (Level 5) in Belfast employer: Thales UK Limited
Thales UK is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and well-being of its employees, offering a supportive work culture where flexibility is key. As a 2026 Academy Engineer Apprentice in Belfast, you will benefit from a structured apprenticeship programme that combines hands-on experience with academic learning, ensuring you develop valuable skills in mechatronic engineering while earning a competitive salary. With opportunities for career progression and a commitment to innovation across critical industries, Thales UK is dedicated to making a positive impact on both its employees and society.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 2026 Academy Engineer Apprentice (Level 5) in Belfast
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former Thales employees on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing the apprenticeship. Personal connections can make a huge difference!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Thales and its projects. Show your passion for engineering and how you can contribute to their mission. Bring up specific technologies or systems that excite you!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions with a friend or family member. Focus on your problem-solving skills and how you've tackled challenges in the past. Confidence is key, so get comfortable talking about your experiences!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Thales team. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace 2026 Academy Engineer Apprentice (Level 5) in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Engineering:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for engineering shine through! Share any projects or experiences that sparked your interest in the field. We want to see that you're genuinely excited about the opportunity to learn and grow with us.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role. Mention specific aspects of the job description that resonate with you, like your interest in mechatronics or working in a multi-disciplined environment. This shows us you’ve done your homework!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read, so make sure your thoughts flow logically and coherently.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our company there. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thales UK Limited
✨Know Your Engineering Basics
Brush up on your mechatronic engineering principles, especially in mechanics, electronics, and software. Be ready to discuss how these areas intersect and how they apply to the role at Thales.
✨Show Your Passion for Learning
Thales is looking for enthusiastic individuals who are keen to learn. Prepare examples of how you've pursued knowledge in engineering, whether through projects, coursework, or personal interests.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills
Since you'll be working in a multi-disciplined agile environment, think of instances where you've successfully collaborated with others. Highlight your communication skills and how you build relationships within a team.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the apprenticeship programme and the projects you'll be involved in. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand if it's the right fit for you.
