Mechanical Engineering Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship 2026

Mbda Systems; Cambridge, Stevenage, Norton Green; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defense organization is seeking candidates for the Mechanical Engineering Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship 2026. This role offers structured training in engineering skills, with a focus on placements and study at Cambridge Regional College. Candidates must have 5 GCSEs including English Language and Mathematics, alongside A levels or equivalent qualifications. A £3,000 joining bonus is included alongside a salary of £18,750, with paths for progression into technical specialist roles.

Benefits

£3,000 joining bonus

Structured training program

Path to professional accreditation

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 GCSEs including English Language and Mathematics- level 5 and above.
• Completion of 3 x A levels with grades A* to C with Maths.
• BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Engineering with Distinction in Further Maths.

Responsibilities

• Participate in structured training in engineering design/analysis.
• Attend Cambridge Regional College for 1 day per week.
• Rotate through various placements in Mechanical Design, Analysis, etc.

Skills

GCSEs in English Language

GCSEs in Mathematics

GCSEs in Science or Technology

A levels including Maths

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Engineering

T-Level in Engineering

Education

5 GCSEs at grades 9-4

96 UCAS Tariff points

A levels or equivalent qualifications

Job description

Overview

Mechanical Engineering Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship 2026 – MBDA.

Join to apply for the Mechanical Engineering Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship 2026 role at MBDA.

Salary: £18,750 plus a £3,000 joining bonus.
Work Location: MBDA Stevenage.
Learning Provider Location: Cambridge Regional College, Cambridge Campus.
Security clearance: British Citizen or a Dual UK national with British citizenship.

Closing date: Midnight on 23 January 2026 (subject to application volumes).

This is a four-year apprenticeship designed to prepare you for graduation into the Mechanical Engineering Function. It provides structured training in industry standard software and engineering design/analysis skills, with placements and study at Cambridge Regional College and MBDA.

Programme and Placements

You will study towards a Level 4 Engineering Manufacturing Technician Apprenticeship, which includes a HNC in Mechanical Engineering. The course aligns with the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education. Throughout the 4 years, you will attend Cambridge Regional College for 1 day per week with work placements typically lasting three to six months. MBDA will assist in achieving professional accreditation through the IMechE, IET or RAeS.

Placement rotations may include: Mechanical Design, Mechanical Analysis, Materials and Processes, Design Definition Office, Configuration management, Environmental Engineering & Facilities, Industry Policy Supply Chain and Procurement.

What we’re looking for

This role has specific qualification and subject criteria. Please check eligibility before applying. If you are currently studying and predicted to meet these requirements by the start date you may apply.

GCSEs: A minimum of 5 GCSEs at grades 9-4. This must include:

• English Language
• Mathematics - level 5 and above
• Any Science or Technology subject

After GCSEs: You must have completed one of the following and achieved 96 UCAS Tariff points:

• 3 x A levels including Maths. Grades A* to C.
• BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Engineering at a minimum grade of MMM, including a Distinction in Further Maths module.
• T-Level at Pass in an Engineering subject

Please note: Entry criteria are based on your top three full A Levels or equivalent qualifications. We do not include UCAS points from Extended Project Qualification. Criteria may differ from university requirements.

MBDA is a leading defence organisation. We are proud to support the Armed Forces and partner with governments toward a common goal. We value diversity and provide networks and support for employees and applicants.

Careers and progression

This programme provides a path to roles such as technical specialist or project manager within MBDA’s Mechanical Engineering Function, and supports professional accreditation through IMechE, IET or RAeS.

Job details

Seniority level: Entry level. Employment type: Full-time. Job function: Training. Industries: Defense and Space Manufacturing.

Additional information: Follow MBDA on LinkedIn, X, Instagram and Glassdoor; visit the MBDA Careers site for more information.

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