Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Apprenticeship

Embark on a Rewarding Engineering Career: Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Apprenticeship at HM Naval Base Clyde

Are you seeking a dynamic and practical route into a fulfilling engineering career? This Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Apprenticeship offers an exceptional opportunity to gain invaluable hands-on experience, industry-recognised qualifications, and a direct pathway to a skilled role supporting critical operations for the Royal Navy. This is more than just a job; it's a comprehensive training program designed to cultivate your engineering talents over four years.

Programme Highlights & Advantages:

• Earn While You Learn: Commence your career with a starting salary of £16,000, with significant annual increases reaching approximately £38,461 upon successful completion of your apprenticeship. This financial stability allows you to focus on your development.
• Comprehensive Training: Benefit from a blended learning approach, combining on-site practical experience at HM Naval Base Clyde with structured college education. You'll progress through recognised qualifications, including SVQ Level 2, SVQ Diploma (SCQF Level 7), and an HNC in Building Services.
• Vital Role in Defence: Play a crucial part in maintaining the operational readiness of Royal Navy vessels. Your work will directly impact the effectiveness of ships and submarines, providing a strong sense of purpose and contribution.
• Diverse Skill Development: Master the inspection, maintenance, and repair of complex refrigeration and air conditioning systems. This includes working with chilled water plants, cold rooms, and ensuring the integrity of systems through pressure testing and defect rectification.
• Structured Career Progression: Upon completion, you'll be well-equipped to step into the role of a Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineering Technician with Babcock, a testament to the robust training and development provided.
• Supportive Environment: Join a team dedicated to your growth, offering a supportive and engaging environment. You'll also have access to a comprehensive Apprentice Development Programme focused on wellbeing and performance.
• Attractive Benefits Package: Beyond your salary, enjoy fully funded qualifications, personal development opportunities, a minimum of 28 days holiday, a competitive pension scheme, an employee share scheme, and flexible benefits like cycle-to-work schemes and shopping discounts.

Key Considerations for Aspiring Candidates:

• Location and Commitment: This apprenticeship is based at HM Naval Base Clyde in Scotland and requires a 4-year commitment.
• Academic Requirements: A strong foundation in STEM is essential. You'll need National Level 5 qualifications (or equivalent) in Mathematics, English, and a Science or technical subject (grades A–C), plus two additional National Level 4 or 5 qualifications (or above) with grades A–C.
• Security Clearance: Please be aware that this role is subject to security clearance, including Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and Security Check (SC). Your place of birth, nationality, citizenship, or residency may be a factor in eligibility.
• Comfort with Confined Spaces: A significant aspect of this role involves working in confined spaces. Candidates must be comfortable performing tasks in restricted environments.
• Early Application Recommended: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and the programme may close early. To maximise your chances, submit your application and complete any online assessments promptly. The closing date for applications is 12th March 2026, with a programme start date in August 2026.

This Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Apprenticeship represents a significant opportunity for individuals eager to build a secure and rewarding career in engineering. By investing in your development, this programme offers a clear path to becoming a skilled professional in a vital sector.