Advanced Apprentice Shipwright

BAE Systems; Glasgow; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defense manufacturing company in Glasgow seeks an Advanced Apprentice Shipwright. This full-time apprenticeship offers hands-on training in structural steelwork, welding, and ship operations. Ideal candidates will have a minimum of 5 National 4s, including Maths and English. Join a company committed to delivering high-profile defense programmes and a culture that values diversity and inclusion.

Benefits

Competitive pension scheme

Employee share plans

Flexible discounted health benefits

Annual incentive eligibility

Qualifications

• Must have 5 National 4s or equivalent including Maths and English.
• Must complete Welding & Fabrication training.
• Must participate in Engineering Diploma pathway.

Responsibilities

• Learn fabrication techniques for steel structures.
• Align and install steelwork units using various tools.
• Operate equipment for lifting ship components.
• Engage in ship docking and mooring procedures.
• Work collaboratively in shipbuilding tasks.

Education

5 National 4s (or equivalent) including Maths, English, and a Science / Technical Subject

Performing Engineering Operations SVQ2

National Certificate in Welding & Fabrication

(Optional Higher National Certificate in Fabrication, Welding & Inspection)

Level 7 Engineering Diploma Pathway B: Engineering Manufacturing and Fabrication

Job description

Description

Job title: Advanced Apprentice Shipwright

Location: Glasgow

Salary: Starting from £18,667 with annual progression through the scheme duration.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Structural Steelwork Training: Learn fabrication techniques, Oxy Fuel Burning and MMA stick welding to build foundational skills for working with steel structures.
• Precision Alignment and Installation: Perform main alignment of steelwork units and install prefabricated seats using tools like thermal cutters, welding systems, and jack pumps.
• Heavy Lifting and Equipment Operation: Operate overhead cranes, lifting aids, MEWPs, and Scheuerle transporters, including driving and banksman duties for safe transport of ship components.
• Tidal and Dockside Operations: Engage in ship docking, mooring, and launching procedures, handling ropes and securing vessels with precision and care.
• Collaborative Shipbuilding Tasks: Work as part of a skilled team to transport, rotate, and erect ship units in the Ship Block Outfit Hall (SBOH) and Janet Harvey Hall, following detailed lift plans and ensuring safety and accuracy throughout the process.

What Qualifications Will You Get?

• Performing Engineering Operations SVQ2
• National Certificate in Welding & Fabrication
• (Optional Higher National Certificate in Fabrication, Welding & Inspection)
• Level 7 Engineering Diploma Pathway B: Engineering Manufacturing and Fabrication

Benefits

As well as a competitive pension scheme, BAE Systems also offers employee share plans, an extensive range of flexible discounted health, wellbeing & lifestyle benefits, including a green car scheme, private health plans and shopping discounts – you may also be eligible for an annual incentive.

The Naval Ships Team

We Design and Manufacture Naval Ships, as well as their state‑of‑the‑art Combat Systems. We offer an array of associated services, including training solutions, maintenance and modernisation programmes to support ships and equipment in service around the World and the management of supporting infrastructure. Trusted with the responsibility to deliver some of the UK’s most complex and high‑profile Defence programmes, providing our customers with the capability to fulfil extensive Naval Operations around the World and protect what matters most. As a Business at the forefront of Advanced Engineering and Technology, you can help us shape the future for Maritime Defence.

Why BAE Systems?

This is a place where you’ll be able to make a real difference. You’ll be part of an inclusive culture that values diversity of thought, rewards integrity, and merit, and where you’ll be empowered to fulfil your potential. We welcome people from all backgrounds and want to make sure that our recruitment processes are as inclusive as possible. If you have a disability or health condition (for example dyslexia, autism, an anxiety disorder etc.) that may affect your performance in certain assessment types, please speak to your recruiter about potential reasonable adjustments.

Export Control/Security

Please be aware that many roles at BAE Systems are subject to both security and export control restrictions. These restrictions mean that factors such as your nationality, any nationalities you may have previously held, and your place of birth can restrict the roles you are eligible to perform within the organisation. All applicants must as a minimum achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard. Many roles also require higher levels of National Security Vetting where applicants must typically have 5 to 10 years of continuous residency in the UK depending on the vetting level required for the role, to allow for meaningful security vetting checks. Click here for more information on national security vetting levels.

Qualification Requirements

5 National 4s (or equivalent) – which must include Maths (excluding Application of Maths) & English & a Science / Technical Subject.

Seniority level

Internship

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Management and Manufacturing

Industries

Defense and Space Manufacturing

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