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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Learn essential skills in assembly, wiring, and soldering while earning a salary.
- Company: Join Thales, a leader in innovative engineering solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, health care, and 201 hours of annual leave.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career with hands-on training and industry-recognised qualifications.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in Maths and English required; must be 17 by September 2026.
- Other info: Gain valuable experience with a permanent role from day one.
Location: Templecombe, United Kingdom
Working Schedule: 37 hours per week on site. Year 1 Monday‑Friday 37‑hour week, then 3‑day 12‑hour shifts after you are 18.
Key Dates & Salary
- Start Date: 07 September 2026
- Salary: £24,000 per annum (permanent role)
What the Role Offers
- Earn while you learn
- Job‑specific training experiences
- Industry‑recognised qualifications
- Permanent role from day one
- Full tuition fee coverage for university or approved training providers
Our Level 2 manufacturing apprenticeship provides foundational skills in assembly, wiring, soldering, and ESD safety. You will receive all necessary equipment and software.
Apprentice Programme Details
The apprenticeship is delivered via a day release model: academic content at Yeovil College and practical application at Thales. Duration is 12 months plus a 6‑month End Point Assessment, culminating in a Level 2 Certificate, Diploma, and Apprenticeship qualification in Engineering Operations.
Requirements
- 2 GCSEs grade 4 (D) or above, Maths and English
- Legal to work in the UK; permanent right to work required
- Successful candidates must be 17 years old or above at the programme start date (07 September 2026) and will be 18 upon completion
Benefits
- 201 hours annual leave plus bank holidays and a company day
- Company pension
- Health care cash plan
- Life insurance
- Discount portal
- Performance‑related pay uplifts
- 80 hours of volunteering (first two years)
Recruitment Process
Assessments for shortlisted candidates will be held between February and May 2026. Induction week for all graduates and apprentices will take place from Monday 7 September to Friday 11 September 2026. Applications close at 11:59pm on Thursday 12 February 2026. Roles may close earlier due to high demand.
Security Clearance
All successful candidates must possess or obtain Security Clearance (SC) before commencing employment. This involves Government security clearance at BPSS level and full SC clearance under UKSV requirements.
Equal Opportunities
Thales is an equal opportunities employer and diversity, inclusion and flexibility are integral to our success.
Contact & Accessibility
For a recruitment process in an alternative format or assistance with reasonable adjustments, contact the Early Careers Team for apprentice roles.
Application
Great journeys start here – apply now!
2026 Manufacturing Apprentice – Level 2 Engineering Operative Apprenticeship employer: Thales
Contact Detail:
Thales Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land 2026 Manufacturing Apprentice – Level 2 Engineering Operative Apprenticeship
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Thales and understand their values, products, and culture. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to engineering and manufacturing. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or family to build your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current apprentices or employees at Thales on platforms like LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips and might even give you a heads-up about the recruitment process.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, keep an eye on the closing date and don’t wait until the last minute – roles can close early due to high demand!
We think you need these skills to ace 2026 Manufacturing Apprentice – Level 2 Engineering Operative Apprenticeship
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for engineering and manufacturing shine through. We want to see why you're excited about this apprenticeship and how it fits into your career goals.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight any relevant skills or experiences that relate to assembly, wiring, or soldering. We love seeing how your background aligns with what we do at Thales!
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’s easy to read and understand.
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 role and the application process there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Thales
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the basics of assembly, wiring, and soldering. Brush up on ESD safety too! This will show that you're genuinely interested in the role and ready to learn.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
Let your passion for engineering shine through during the interview. Talk about why you want to be a Manufacturing Apprentice and how this opportunity aligns with your career goals. A positive attitude can really set you apart!
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask your interviewers. This could be about the training process or what a typical day looks like. It shows that you're engaged and eager to learn more about the apprenticeship.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Consider doing a mock interview with a friend or family member. Practising common interview questions can help you feel more confident and articulate your thoughts clearly when it counts.
