Engineering Design and Manufacture Graduate Apprenticeship - Quality Assurance and Control

Opportunity Review: Engineering Design and Manufacture Graduate Apprenticeship – Quality Assurance and Control

This 4-year Graduate Apprenticeship in Engineering Design and Manufacture, with a focus on Quality Assurance and Control, presents a compelling opportunity for driven individuals looking to build a robust career within a critical sector. Located in Rosyth, Scotland, this programme offers a unique blend of hands-on experience, academic study, and a clear pathway to professional development.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Meaningful Contribution: You'll be directly involved in significant UK defence programmes, including the construction of Type 31 frigates and the maintenance of Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers. This offers a sense of purpose and the chance to contribute to nationally important projects.
• Comprehensive Learning: The programme is meticulously designed for broad exposure to quality activities. Through planned rotations between Central Quality and live projects, you'll gain a holistic understanding of quality assurance and control, developing core skills in stakeholder management, data analysis, auditing, quality planning, and continuous improvement.
• Industry-Recognised Education: You will study for a BEng (Hons) in Engineering (Design and Manufacture) through Glasgow Caledonian University. This degree is co-designed with industry and accredited by leading professional bodies (IET, IMechE, InstMC), providing a strong academic foundation and setting you on the path to professional recognition.
• Structured Development & Mentorship: Beyond academic learning, you'll receive structured training from Babcock, including opportunities for Internal Auditor training. Regular coaching and support are integral to the programme, ensuring your learning objectives are met and your development stays on track.
• Clear Career Progression: Upon successful completion, you are poised to step into roles like Quality Controller, Advisor, or Engineer with a competitive starting salary exceeding £39,000. Furthermore, Babcock provides clear career pathways, professional development opportunities (e.g., CQI membership, Lead Auditor qualifications), and a structured framework for career advancement.
• Supportive Environment & Benefits: The programme offers a fully funded qualification, personal development training, a minimum of 28 days holiday, a competitive pension scheme, an employee share scheme, and a range of flexible benefits. You'll also have opportunities for STEM outreach and volunteering.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Academic Entry Requirements: Candidates will need to meet specific UCAS Tariff or Scottish Higher requirements, including Maths and a science or technology subject. Alternative qualifications like Foundation Apprenticeships or HNCs are also considered, so carefully review the specified criteria.
• Security Clearance: A significant consideration for this role is the requirement to achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and Security Check (SC) clearance. Eligibility may be impacted by nationality, citizenship, or residency. Candidates should familiarise themselves with UK government security vetting requirements.
• Commitment to Learning: This is a 4-year programme that requires dedication to both academic study (typically 1-2 days per week) and practical on-the-job learning. A proactive, detail-focused, and eager-to-learn attitude is essential for success.
• Application Timeline: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and the programme may close early due to high interest. It is strongly recommended to apply as soon as possible, well before the stated closing date of March 2026, to maximise your chances of consideration.

In summary, this Graduate Apprenticeship offers an exceptional launchpad for a career in quality assurance and control within a vital industry. For individuals who are passionate about precision, problem-solving, and are seeking a structured, well-supported, and rewarding career path, this opportunity in Rosyth is certainly worth serious consideration.