Network Engineer Apprenticeship

Review of the Network Engineer Apprenticeship Opportunity at Babcock

Are you a forward-thinking individual with a passion for technology and a curiosity about how the digital world connects? This Network Engineer Apprenticeship at Babcock, based in Oakhanger, Bordon, Hampshire, presents a compelling opportunity for aspiring professionals to embark on a rewarding career journey. This 3-year Level 4 Apprenticeship is designed to provide a robust foundation in network engineering, offering a blend of practical experience and formal education while you earn.

Key Advantages for Aspiring Candidates:

• Earn While You Learn & Career Progression: This apprenticeship offers a significant advantage by allowing you to gain valuable work experience and earn a competitive salary of £23,776, with incremental increases each year as you progress. This structure ensures financial stability while you develop your skills.
• Impactful Work & National Security: As part of Babcock's Skynet Service Delivery Wrap (SDW) program, you will contribute to critical communication capabilities for the UK and NATO armed forces. This is a unique opportunity to work on projects with direct implications for national security and ensure service personnel can remain connected in any environment.
• Diverse Learning Experience: The program includes rotations through different Skynet SDW Infrastructure teams, exposing you to a variety of operations and tasks. This broad exposure will help you identify areas of interest and develop a well-rounded skillset.
• Comprehensive Technical Training: You will receive in-depth training encompassing the installation, configuration, and testing of network components, data analysis for performance monitoring, system maintenance and upgrades, and the interpretation of technical documentation. This hands-on and theoretical approach ensures you are well-equipped for the demands of the role.
• Future-Proof Skills in a Growing Sector: The space industry is experiencing remarkable growth, with projected tripling of its global value by 2035. The network engineering skills you acquire in this apprenticeship will be highly sought after, offering excellent long-term career prospects.
• Dedicated Career Development: Babcock is committed to your ongoing professional growth, providing continuous development opportunities beyond the apprenticeship. The integrated Apprentice Development Programme offers specialized sessions to equip you with the tools to excel both during and after your apprenticeship.
• Valuable Benefits Package: In addition to a fully funded qualification, you will benefit from personal development training, a generous holiday allowance, a competitive pension scheme, an employee share scheme, and access to flexible benefits such as a cycle-to-work scheme and shopping discounts.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Academic Prerequisites: A strong academic foundation is essential. Candidates are required to have achieved 5 GCSEs at Grade C/4 or above, specifically including Maths, English, and Science.
• Security Clearance Requirements: This role necessitates the ability to obtain Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and Security Check (SC) clearance. Due to potential security restrictions, your place of birth, nationality, citizenship, or residency history may impact your eligibility. Candidates should thoroughly research the requirements for UK Security Vetting.
• Commitment to Learning and Development: This is a 3-year program that requires dedication to both on-the-job learning and formal study. Successful candidates will demonstrate a proactive approach to acquiring new knowledge and skills.
• Adaptability and Problem-Solving: The role involves troubleshooting network issues, providing technical support, and working in diverse environments, which may include tasks at height and in confined spaces. Candidates should possess strong problem-solving abilities and a willingness to adapt to different working conditions.
• Early Application Recommended: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and the program may close early due to high interest. To maximize your chances of success, it is strongly advised to submit your application and complete any required online assessments as soon as possible.

This Network Engineer Apprenticeship offers an exceptional starting point for a dynamic career in a vital sector. For individuals with the right aptitude and dedication, it promises a pathway to acquiring highly valued skills, contributing to important national initiatives, and building a prosperous future.