Mechanical Engineering Degree Apprentice

Location: Birchwood Park, Risley
Duration: 5 Years (Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship)
Provider: Wigan & Leigh College
Qualification: Level 5 Nuclear Technician including HND (Mechanical Engineering) followed by Level 6 Nuclear Engineer (Integrated Degree) Mechanical Engineering (accredited by UCLan)

Closing date for applications: 14th February 2026

Overview

As a Mechanical Engineering Degree Apprentice at NUVIA, you’ll join a five-year development programme that combines technical training with exposure to real-world nuclear projects while studying. From day one, you’ll contribute to projects involving nuclear technologies such as decommissioning, commissioning, waste management, defence, and power generation, gaining exposure to the full project lifecycle in highly regulated, safety-critical environments. Supported by experienced professionals and mentors, you’ll earn while you learn, develop technical expertise, and build the professional behaviours needed for a successful career in the nuclear industry.

As your apprenticeship progresses, you’ll take on increasingly complex responsibilities, applying your academic learning to real-world engineering challenges.

Your day-to-day tasks may include:

• Applying engineering principles to support design, performance optimisation, and operational management
• Producing technical documentation and drawings that meet industry and regulatory standards
• Performing engineering calculations and analysis using scientific and mathematical tools
• Applying theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges
• Ensuring compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards
• Engaging with the supply chain
• Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams
• Developing digital engineering skills through a range of digital software

Additional Opportunities

• Introduction to Nuclear course
• Membership in Nuvia’s Early Careers Group (ECG)
• Act as a STEM Ambassador in outreach activities
• Network through the Young Generation Network (YGN)
• Participate in industry competitions and awards (e.g., WorldSkills UK, NSAN)
• Visit nuclear sites and live projects
• Professional development training, including:

o   Professional Dialogue Skills

o   Report Writing

o   Commercial Awareness

o   Foundational Project Management Skills

Entry Requirements

• GCSEs: Grade 5-9 (A*-C) in Maths and English
• A-Levels: Minimum 3 A-Levels (A*-C), including Maths and preferably a science-related subject (or equivalent qualifications)
• Must be eligible for security and medical clearance

We’re seeking apprentices who are:

• Passionate about engineering and the nuclear industry
• Analytical and detail-oriented problem-solvers, able to tackle complex challenges with precision and creativity.
• Excellent communicators and collaborative team players, confident in sharing ideas and working with colleagues across different disciplines.
• Adaptable and resilient, ready to embrace change and thrive in dynamic environments.
• Committed to safety, ethics, and continuous professional development, prioritising responsibility and lifelong learning.
• Willing to travel and work across multiple UK sites