Navantia UK is a new force in British industry, supporting the UK’s defence, energy and maritime ambitions. We’re doing this by creating state-of-the-art sovereign defence capabilities, investing in the UK to modernise industrial facilities, and bolstering the nation's energy security. Established in 2022, Navantia UK is a subsidiary of Navantia SA, a Spanish state-owned company with over 300 years of naval shipbuilding history. In January 2025, Navantia UK completed the acquisition of Harland & Wolff and its four historic facilities in Belfast, Appledore, Methil, and Arnish. By combining Harland & Wolff’s proud heritage and facilities with Navantia’s global expertise, Navantia UK is well-positioned to strengthen Britain’s defence, maritime and energy industrial capabilities, supporting jobs and economic growth across the UK.

The 3-year apprenticeship programme will be a full Level 3 apprenticeship consisting of a EAL level 2 award in Engineering Operative technical certificate (embedded during year 1), followed by a 2-year EAL Level 3 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (year 2 & 3), alongside these college qualifications there will also be a EAL Level 3 Diploma in Maritime Defence (Portfolio). As an Apprentice you will attend college and receive both practical and theoretical training part of your working week. The remainder of your week will be spent in the workplace.

You learn the skills to support qualified pipe fitters in pipe fabrication and fitting tasks within the shipyard. You will learn to work with various pipe sizes, techniques and materials, gaining hands-on experience both in the workshop, onboard vessels or on heavy fabrication projects such as. and work on the yard the of your working week

You are required to attend college where you will undertake practical work and theory-based learning.

• Yard tour date Friday 27th March approx. 1hr long
• Interview & Assessment dates to be between 6th April - 17th April - Approx. 3hrs

Start dates will be around August/September 2026.

Reporting to: The Apprenticeship Supervisor and Manager

Job purpose: You learn the skills to support qualified pipe fitters in pipe fabrication and fitting tasks within the shipyard

What will you learn doing this apprenticeship:

You will learn the skills to support qualified pipe fitters in pipe fabrication and fitting tasks within the shipyard. You will learn to work with various pipe sizes, techniques and materials, gaining hands-on experience both in the workshop, onboard vessels or on heavy fabrication projects such as. and work on the yard the of your working week.

Job Duties

• Assist in profiling and shaping pipes using hand and power tools.
• Support the preparation and fitting of piping systems according to engineering drawings.
• Help assemble and connect piping systems including flanges, clamps and threaded pipes.
• Work as part of a team and follow guidance from experienced pipe fitters.
• Assist with diagnostics and testing of pipework and systems.
• Work safely at heights and in confined spaces under supervision.

Health, Safety & Environment

• Demonstrate a positive attitude to safety and report any concerns.
• Follow all safety, environmental and quality procedures.
• Maintain good housekeeping in all work areas.

Quality

• Assist in inspection of parts and assemblies for accuracy and quality.
• Support company standards including ISO 9001, 14001 and 45001 by following
  
  

Essential

• Hold a minimum of a grade (C)4/5 in GCSE Mathematics’s and English Language and a Science
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to use your own initiative and a strong drive to succeed.
• Enthusiasm and determination to learn and develop skills in Pipe fabrication.
• Ability to get on with colleagues and customers
• Commitment to complete all college work that is set within the programme requirements.
• To participate in scheduled reviews that will access competences, behaviours and college progression
• An agreement to complete your training diligently and punctually
• To at all times, conduct yourself at work, college and within the local community in a responsible manner and promote to the best of your ability, the interests of the company.

Key Interpersonal/Behavioural Skills

• Ability to establish an appropriate course of action for self and/or others to accomplish a goal
• Effectiveness in identifying possible problems for upward reporting/investigation
• Ability to express ideas or facts in a clear manner
• Professional and pro-active work ethic
  
  

On Offer

• Competitive hourly rate
• Company pension
• Health care cash plan (optional)
• 33 days holiday
• Life assurance
• Great opportunity to kick start your career

We are an Opening Doors employer, committed to equal opportunity and an inclusive workplace. Our approach, shaped by our values of service, trust, excellence, agility, dedication, and you, we focus on removing barriers and recognising potential. We are committed to fairness at every stage, including providing reasonable adjustments and actively working to eliminate discrimination.

We believe talent is everywhere, and by widening access to opportunity and welcoming diverse experiences, we aim to create a workplace where every person feels valued and has an equal chance.

We are an Opening Doors employer, committed to equal opportunity and an inclusive workplace. Our approach, shaped by our values of service, trust, excellence, agility, dedication, and you, we focus on removing barriers and recognising potential. We are committed to fairness at every stage, including providing reasonable adjustments and actively working to eliminate discrimination.

We believe talent is everywhere, and by widening access to opportunity and welcoming diverse experiences, we aim to create a workplace where every person feels valued and has an equal chance.

If you experience difficulties or are unable to apply for a role on-line please contact us at people.skills@harland-wolff.com and one of the team will be in contact to help you.