Non-Destructive Testing Apprenticeship

Embark on a High-Impact Technical Career: Non-Destructive Testing Apprenticeship at HM Naval Base Clyde

Are you looking to launch a dynamic and rewarding career in a critical technical field? This 4-year Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Apprenticeship offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable engineering qualifications while contributing to the vital operations of the Royal Navy's submarine fleet. Based at the prestigious HM Naval Base Clyde in Scotland, this apprenticeship promises a journey of significant professional growth and invaluable real-world experience.

Key Advantages for Aspiring Technicians:

• Meaningful Impact: Play a crucial role in the Fleet Time Support programme, directly contributing to the readiness and operational success of Vanguard and Astute-Class nuclear submarines. Your work ensures these critical assets are prepared for their important missions.
• Comprehensive Skill Development: This programme offers a robust blend of theoretical learning and practical application. You'll develop expertise in conducting detailed surveys, analysing complex reports, ensuring regulatory compliance, and producing essential technical documentation.
• Specialized Training in Radiography: As a key member of the Radiography Team, you'll receive dedicated training to become a skilled radiographer, a highly sought-after specialization within NDT.
• Structured Educational Pathway: The apprenticeship is meticulously designed with progressive learning, combining full-time study at West College Scotland in your first year with a blended approach of on-site work and college attendance in subsequent years. You will achieve qualifications up to SCQF Level 7 (HNC Engineering Systems).
• Lucrative Salary Progression: Begin on a competitive salary of £16,000, with annual increases that will see you earning approximately £38,461 upon successful completion of the apprenticeship, reflecting your growing expertise and value.
• Excellent Career Prospects: Upon completion, you will be well-prepared to step into a role such as Nuclear Procedures and Standards Inspector Trainee at Babcock, a testament to the high-calibre training you will receive. The programme is designed to equip you for a long and successful career in industry.
• Supportive and Rewarding Environment: Benefit from a fully funded qualification, personal development training, a generous holiday allowance (minimum 28 days), a competitive pension scheme, an employee share scheme, and a flexible benefits package. You'll also have opportunities to engage in STEM outreach and volunteering.
• Dedicated Development Programme: You'll be automatically enrolled in the Apprentice Development Programme, featuring digital and face-to-face sessions with experts to enhance your wellbeing and performance.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Location: This opportunity is based at HM Naval Base Clyde in Scotland. Candidates should be prepared for relocation or local commuting to this specific site.
• Commitment: This is a 4-year apprenticeship, requiring dedication to both academic study and practical work responsibilities.
• Academic Requirements: You will need National Level 5 qualifications (or equivalent) in Mathematics, English, and a Science or technical subject (grades A–C), plus two additional qualifications at National Level 4 or 5 (or above) (grades A–C).
• Security Clearance: A crucial aspect of this role involves obtaining Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and Security Check (SC) clearance. Due to potential trade control restrictions, your place of birth, nationality, citizenship, or residency may impact your eligibility. Candidates are strongly advised to research these requirements.
• Application Timeline: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and the programme may close early if a high volume of interest is received. To maximize your chances, it is highly recommended to submit your application and complete any required assessments as soon as possible. The application closing date is 12th March 2026, with the programme commencing in August 2026.

This Non-Destructive Testing Apprenticeship is an exceptional pathway for individuals seeking a challenging, secure, and highly skilled career in a sector vital to national security. If you are motivated, detail-oriented, and eager to learn, this programme offers a strong foundation for a successful future in engineering.