Embedded Electronic Systems Degree Apprentice - Apprentice Scheme 2026 in Abingdon

This role is based at Culham, Oxfordshire. The scheme requires employees to complete an online Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS), including The Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks for criminal convictions.

Through UKAEA’s Apprenticeship Scheme, you will build the technical expertise, practical experience, and wider professional skills required for both your current role and future career progression. This is achieved through a combination of formal off-the-job learning and on-the-job training within a real working environment.

This apprenticeship is within the Electronics Group. The Electronics Group design, build, test, and repair a wide variety of electronic systems and devices. We are a group of multidisciplinary electronic engineers and technicians, providing support to numerous internal and external customers, as well as other more specialised groups. We provide reactive service via tickets, to test and repair systems such as control & instrumentation, data acquisition, sensing, robotics and power supplies. We can also design and deliver large systems in-group, including for example neutral beam power supplies as part of MAST-U-E.

We have highly experienced engineers up to doctorate level, with extensive knowledge of power systems, magnetics, fusionics, sensing and other areas essential to working towards commercial fusion. Our engineers are available to consult on projects at any stage including concept and initial requirements. The Electronics Group workshops keep an extensive stock of electronic test equipment and are equipped with world-class equipment to assemble and rework surface mount technology. We can also carry out soak testing in a climate chamber at any plausible temperature or humidity level to ensure reliability in plant conditions. We also maintain an extensive network internally and externally, so if there’s something we can’t do, we know who can.

The length of this apprenticeship is 60 months.

• Successfully complete the nationally recognised qualification specified within the apprenticeship standard: Embedded electronic systems design and development engineer (degree) / Skills England.
• Attend the designated training provider and develop a strong understanding of the technical knowledge and skills required for the role.
• Act as an ambassador for UKAEA by representing the organisation at external outreach, engagement, and careers events.

• The training provider requires A Levels at grade C or above in both a mathematical based subject and a science, tech, engineering or additional mathematics related subject, or 90+ credits in an Engineering BTEC. Learners must have the equivalent to 112 UCAS points.
• A minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade A–C (9–4), including Maths and English.
• Additional or higher-level qualifications may be required by the training provider, depending on the apprenticeship level and the applicant’s prior qualifications and experience.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with others.
• Demonstrated interest in, and aptitude for, the chosen area of work.

UKAEA’s mission is clean energy for all, and we welcome talented people from all backgrounds to help us achieve this goal. We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and strive to ensure fair representation across our workforce. We particularly encourage applications from groups currently underrepresented in STEM, including women and individuals from diverse ethnic backgrounds, while ensuring all appointments are made on merit. Please note that vacancies are generally advertised for 4 weeks but may close earlier if we receive a large number of applications.