STFC

This dual-discipline Level 3 Engineering Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship combines on-the-job training at the Mary Lyon Centre with block-release learning at Oxfordshire Advanced Skills to build mechanical, electrical, and high-tech facility maintenance capabilities.Are you passionate about how things work and love solving technical problems? Join us as an Engineering Apprentice and kick-start your future in a dynamic, hands-on role.The Medical Research Council’s Mary Lyon Centre (MLC) based at Harwell has an exciting vacancy for a Level 3 Engineering Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship. You’ll earn while you learn, gain real-world experience on exciting projects, work alongside expert engineers who will mentor and support you and build skills that open doors to a rewarding career in engineering where every day is different.  The support of scientific research through high-quality technical skills and training is paramount to robust, reproducible research. In genetics science we are faced with the challenge of unravelling and ultimately developing therapies for many human diseases. Central to all scientific progress is the delivery of high-quality technical support. This apprenticeship is an excellent pathway for someone who is keen to support the maintenance of the MLC’s facilities and equipment. You will be fully supported throughout your apprenticeship, with opportunities to grow your experience and confidence.  About The Department The Mary Lyon Centre at MRC Harwell (MLC) is located in an expanding science and innovation campus in Oxfordshire and is an internationally renowned centre at the forefront of genetics research. As the hub of the new National Mouse Genetics Network, the specialist facilities and capabilities of the MLC support a number of research groups across the UK to accelerate our understanding of human diseases, such as cancer, developmental disorders and neuro-degeneration.  The MRC is an excellent place to develop yourself further and a range of training & development opportunities will be available to you, including professional registration with the Science Council.The Medical Research Council is part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), the largest public sector funder of research and innovation with an annual budget of over £8bn and includes seven research councils. Click here to find out more about UKRI.   About an Apprenticeship at UKRI With training and support from experts in their fields, you’ll relish the opportunity to develop your knowledge, skills and behaviours whilst making a real difference in your role. You will be able to develop both professionally and as a critical member of the team in an environment you won’t find anywhere else.    We will support you every step of the way, helping you make the most of your opportunities and to achieve the goals you already have – and those you have yet to discover!    We provide an opportunity to really pursue your interests and passion, with access to a dedicated UKRI Early Careers Network. UKRI offers the following:  A benefits package designed to provide an excellent work/life balance including 30 days’ annual leave, 10.5 public and privilege holidays and an exceptional pension scheme  Cycle-2-work scheme  Discount vouchers for high street stores and attractions  About the RoleAs an engineering maintenance apprentice at the Mary Lyon Centre, the appointed individual will gain experience. They will learn to maintain and install many different engineering systems, including but not limited to:Air Handling Plant  Hot & Cold Water Piped SystemsLow Temperature Hot Water BoilersSteam Boilers & Associated PlantRobotic Cage Cleaning & Automation Process EquipmentLow Voltage Electrical SystemsBuilding Management System Controls monitoring Throughout the apprenticeship, the successful candidate will work with our in-house team of experienced engineers to deliver first-class levels of service and maintenance to one of the world’s leading facilities in animal research.   What You Wil LearnYou will undertake your apprenticeship training with Oxfordshire Advanced Skills (OAS), developing engineering maintenance competencies in both electrical and mechanical maintenance knowledge, skills and behaviours In partnership with the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) and OAS you will also have the opportunity to undertake the QuEST programme building a strong foundation in high-value skills such as:Scientific Vacuum Technology and CryogenicsPrecision fitting, milling and turningHigh purity gas systems and machine welding Throughout the apprenticeship you will gain hands-on experience in world-class facilities, helping to maintain the equipment and facilities that support cutting-edge science and innovation whilst building skills that will open doors to a rewarding career in Engineering.Programme StructureYear 1: Block-release training at OAS in Culham, rotating through 4-6 week blocks combined with on-the-job training at the MLCYear 2: Continued block-release training at OAS supplemented with QuEST modules delivered by STFC staff in collaboration with UKAEA, covering technologies for Quantum, Fusion and high-tech engineering. On-the-job training at the MLCYear 3-4: Fully embedded in the workplace, applying your skills in real-world engineering environments as you progress toward becoming a qualified Engineering Technician. Travel to OAS is required, with excess costs covered. What We Are Looking ForTo apply for this apprenticeship, you will need to demonstrate within your CV that you meet the following criteria. Evidence may be used from current or prior paid employment, voluntary roles or educational experiences. Where indicated, this detail will be assessed at shortlisting (S), interview (I) or both (S&I).  Essential:5 GCSEs including Maths and English (Grade 4/C or above) or equivalent qualifications (S)  An awareness of basic health and safety (I)Enthusiastic and motivated to learn, both in the workplace and through formal training (I)  A genuine interest in science, engineering, or technology and the work of MRC (S&I)An interest in how things work and a willingness to develop technical skills through hands-on experience (S&I)Enjoys solving problems, thinking things through, and coming up with ideas that work (I)Passion for technical projects related to this apprenticeship (S&I)  IT literacy and working with Microsoft Office applications such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint (S) We encourage you to be clear and specific about what motivates you about this apprenticeship role and how your interests align with the work of the MLC.  Apprenticeship Core Eligibility Requirements To be eligible to be considered for the apprenticeship programme you must:Have evidence of 5 GCSE including Maths and English GCSE at grade 4/C or above (or equivalent i.e. Level 2 Functional Skills).Have lived in the UK and/or EU for 3 consecutive years prior to the apprentice start date.Confirm that this apprenticeship offers substantive new skills and knowledge and that you have not already achieved an equivalent or higher-level qualification in a similar or related subject. If you already hold a Level 3 Engineering qualification i.e. BTEC Extended Diploma, or an Engineering T-Level, please include as an attachment your transcript(s) outlining the grade(s) achieved and modules covered.

Posted 3 days ago

This workplace-based modern apprenticeship at the UK Astronomy Technology Centre (UK ATC) combines hands-on project support operations—such as meeting coordination, travel management, and procurement paperwork—with structured training to earn an SCQF Level 6 Business Administration qualification.Together, our scientists, technologists, engineers, technicians and business support team explore the unknown and turn what they find into work that changes the world around us. Whether it’s sending probes into space or finding new ways to treat cancer, everyone here plays a vital role in making a positive difference to society.  As a science-driven, professional engineering organisation, we employ state-of-the-art technologies across all our products, including complex optical and infra-red detectors, vacuum-cryogenics, control electronics and software, for both astronomy and non-astronomy applications; and we manage collaborations with academic and industrial partners around the world.  Ready to take the first step into the world of business? Join us as a Business Administration Apprentice and build the skills that power modern organisations. Whether it's organising meetings, supporting teams, or streamlining processes, you’ll be at the heart of how things get done.   This is a brilliant opportunity to learn on the job while gaining a recognised qualification, all within a supportive team that values growth, initiative, and fresh thinking. If you're organised, eager to learn, and up for a challenge, we’d love to hear from you.    About an Apprenticeship at STFC We’re looking for enthusiastic and motivated individuals ready to develop their skills through formal training and hands-on experience. As an apprentice, you’ll gain real-world experience, build technical and professional skills, and contribute to cutting-edge research and innovation in a dynamic, supportive environment.   You’ll be fully supported throughout the programme with regular check-ins from a dedicated Apprenticeship Coordinator, structured training, practical experience, and mentorship from industry professionals. Plus, you’ll have access to workshops, a peer network, and career development support, helping you feel confident and prepared for new challenges.    Why join the Project Support Office Team at UK ATC? As we continue to develop our projects portfolio and processes, the Project Management Group at the UK ATC now seeks an exemplary Project Support Assistant to support the department and key stakeholders, by providing extensive administrative support to group leaders, project managers and project staffs where required.  The project support office provides support to BOTH the operation of UK ATC and the portfolio of exciting astronomy instrumentation projects.    Working flexibly within a small team you will gain hand-on experience of the practicalities of business administration in a busy, dynamic project office.  Qualifications gained   Business Administration SCQF Level 6  What you’ll learnBusiness Administration candidates have a broad range of activities with significant complexity, responsibility and autonomy. Mandatory units will cover:  Undertaking allocated work: Managing tasks efficiently and responsibly.  Communicating in a business environment: Professional written and verbal communication.  Managing own performance: Time management, goal setting, and self-evaluation  There are a wide range of optional units available to enhance this apprenticeship further, 4 of these will be chosen and are in direct relation to the work we do here at UKATC. Examples include:  Producing business documents Organising meetings and events Using IT systems and software Delivering customer service Maintaining records and information systems Supporting financial functions  Learning Delivery: Delivery is fully based within the work environment, consisting of 2-3 weekly meetings with the assessor which is a mixture of remote (MS Teams) meetings and in-person observations within the office.   What You’ll Be Doing – Day-to-day responsibilities  Working with other Project Assistants your responsibilities could include:  Provide administrative support for a variety of project meetings, including management meetings. This involves preparing agendas, drafting papers, taking minutes, tracking action items and ensuring timely follow-up with action owners. There will also be an element of financial reporting where applicable. Build and maintain effective working relationships across all levels, both internally and externally, e.g.  all UKATC departments, the Public Engagement Team, onsite visitor centre and international stakeholders. Maintain and develop accurate records and documentation in accordance with internal processes standards. This will also involve running reports for the in-house management systems. Provide general administrative support as required, contributing to the smooth running of daily operations. Coordinate and manage travel arrangements (flights, accommodation, transport), ensuring cost-effective and safe options are selected in collaboration with relevant stakeholders. Supporting shipping and receiving for projects, handling relevant paperwork. Supporting office procurement needs by raising purchase orders in conjunction with our Shared Business Service function.     You will be a proactive and organised person, used to managing your time and responsibilities with the upmost professionalism. Our work involves people working collaboratively on our site and across various UK and international institutes. Therefore, good interpersonal skills and clear communication are needed to work effectively while managing conflicting needs in a busy office environment.  Entry RequirementsThe below criteria will be scored during Shortlisting (S), Interview (I) or both (S&I).We are looking for the following:Mathematics at National 5 (S) English at National 5 (S) Computer literate. (S) Excellent communication skills. (S&I) Proactive, organised with good attention to detail. (S) Able to work well under pressure when there are tight deadlines (I) An awareness of basic health and safety (I)  Enthusiastic and motivated to learn, both in the workplace and through formal training (I) Eligibility for SDS funding [student must be resident in Scotland and work in Scotland] - and you must not have completed the same or similar apprenticeship within the last 3 years.  Note: Funding is available for age 16-19, 20-24 or 25+   Important InformationTo complete the apprenticeship, you will need to evidence passes as detailed in the entry requirements above. For applicants sitting their exams in 2026, we would need evidence of your predicted grades at the point of application. When applying for an apprenticeship, there is a set residency eligibility criteria that must be met by the applicant. The training provider will also ask you to complete an initial assessment during the application process. If you already have a qualification in this subject area or similar please include, as an attachment, your transcript outlining the grade/s achieved and modules covered.  By applying for this apprenticeship, you are giving permission for your details to be shared with the relevant training provider. Employee BenefitsYour salary will increase annually as you progress through your apprenticeship, in line with policy.30 days holiday (in addition to 10.5 bank holidays and privilege days).Flexible working hours.An excellent defined average salary pension scheme.Easily accessible public transport links/ free parking.Excellent learning and development opportunities.Cycle to work scheme.

Posted 3 days ago