At a Glance
- Tasks: Learn mechanical engineering skills while working on exciting nuclear energy projects.
- Company: Join Westinghouse, a leader in innovative nuclear energy solutions.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, recognised qualifications, and enjoy a supportive training environment.
- Why this job: Kickstart your engineering career with real-world experience and long-term growth opportunities.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in Maths, English, and Science at grades A–C / 5–9 required.
- Other info: 80 years of apprenticeship success with a strong community focus.
The predicted salary is between 800 - 1400 £ per month.
Welcome to the future of nuclear energy, where Westinghouse Electric Company is leading the field with expertise and innovation to shape the power of tomorrow. At Westinghouse, innovation is in our DNA. We are creative. We think differently. We reimagine the possible across the nuclear industry every day. If you're curious about how things are made and how they work and you love solving problems, an L3 Mechanical Engineering Apprentice at Westinghouse Springfields will equip you with the skills and experience for a first-class engineering career with long term prospects across our site and the wider industry.
Development Journey
In your first 12 months you will study at level 2 to build strong foundations in multi-discipline engineering fundamentals: including fitting, precision measuring and machining. You will then undertake in the second phase of the year, with discipline specific training in the training academy, including building up to the next stage covering pipe fitting, valve servicing, additional machining. On successful completion of the Level 2, the following 3 years of the apprenticeship are then spent working alongside the experienced maintenance teams across our production facilities on the Springfields site, Preston. You will have the opportunity to work and maintain a wide range of equipment including steam boilers, rotary kilns, furnaces, dissolvers and other integrated mechanical systems.
Your Training
On-the-job training is delivered on site by experienced professionals in our Engineering Academy and through placements across operational areas.
Pathway
Mechanical Maintenance: Work on hydraulics, pneumatics, gaskets & seals, drive systems, and apply machining techniques. Typical tasks include inspection & testing, fault finding/repair, pump service/repair, and relief valve maintenance.
Entry requirements
GCSEs (or equivalent) in Maths, English, and a Science at grades A–C / 5–9 (or predicted). Enthusiasm for problem-solving and a genuine motivation for an engineering technical career.
How we'll support you
You’ll be guided by dedicated instructors and supported throughout by our Training Academy team ensuring you gain the knowledge, hands-on skills, and confidence to thrive in your work environment. Springfields is a site with a long-standing culture of supporting apprentices and their development – Springfields have been training apprentices on site for 80 years and roughly a third of staff are former apprentices.
Progression and future opportunities
As you near completion, you’ll have the chance to apply for a permanent role on site. Many apprentices also progress to further study such as HNC/HND, subject to competence and aptitude.
How to apply
Apply via our careers page on the Westinghouse website. Please apply to the adverts that interest you, please include a cover letter and our team will discuss at the final selection stage and assess you for the routes/pathway you have applied for.
Start date
The programme typically starts the 3rd week of August 2026.
Why Westinghouse?
Apply today and join a team that values innovation, diversity, and your professional growth. You will also have the opportunity to apply for a permanent on-site role after successfully completing the programme.
Great benefits for your convenience and safety:
- Peer-to-peer recognition programme.
- On-the-job training delivered by experienced professionals.
- Opportunity to gain a recognized qualification through a local training provider on a day-release basis.
- We encourage our employees to participate in community service events and other team-building activities to strengthen their bonds and inspire each other.
Westinghouse is an Equal Opportunity Employer including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities.
Mechanical Engineering Apprentice in Preston employer: Westinghouse Electric Company LLC.
Contact Detail:
Westinghouse Electric Company LLC. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Mechanical Engineering Apprentice in Preston
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Westinghouse Electric Company and their projects. Understanding their values and innovations will help you stand out in interviews and show your genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current apprentices or employees on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing the apprenticeship. It’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for practical assessments! Since this is a hands-on role, brush up on your mechanical skills. Practising problem-solving scenarios can give you an edge during the selection process.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! Make sure to submit your application via the Westinghouse careers page. Tailor your cover letter to highlight your enthusiasm for engineering and how you fit into their innovative culture.
We think you need these skills to ace Mechanical Engineering Apprentice in Preston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Engineering: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for engineering shine through! Talk about what excites you about the field and how you love solving problems. We want to see that spark of curiosity that makes you a great fit for our Mechanical Engineering Apprentice role.
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your cover letter for this specific role. Highlight relevant experiences or projects that relate to mechanical engineering. We appreciate when applicants take the time to connect their skills with what we do at Westinghouse!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant. We’re looking for clarity in your communication, so make it easy for us to understand your qualifications and motivations.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our careers page on the Westinghouse website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensure you’re considered for the Mechanical Engineering Apprentice position. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Westinghouse Electric Company LLC.
✨Know Your Engineering Basics
Before heading into the interview, brush up on your engineering fundamentals. Since this role is all about mechanical systems, be prepared to discuss concepts like hydraulics, pneumatics, and machining techniques. Showing that you have a solid grasp of these basics will impress the interviewers.
✨Show Your Problem-Solving Skills
Westinghouse values innovation and creativity, so come ready with examples of how you've tackled problems in the past. Think of specific instances where you identified an issue and found a solution, whether in school projects or personal experiences. This will demonstrate your enthusiasm for problem-solving.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so prepare some thoughtful questions about the apprenticeship programme and the company culture. Inquire about the types of projects you might work on or how the training academy supports apprentices. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the company.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Experience
Since you'll be working alongside experienced maintenance teams, it's crucial to showcase your ability to collaborate. Share examples of group projects or team activities where you contributed effectively. This will help convey that you're not just a lone wolf but someone who thrives in a team environment.