AWE
Nuclear science, engineering and manufacturing for the UK's deterrent programme.
Defence & EngineeringApprenticeshipDegree ApprenticeshipGraduate SchemeIndustrial Placement
View live opportunities →About AWE
AWE runs the science and engineering behind the UK's nuclear deterrent, from materials research and high-performance computing to precision manufacturing and radiation safety.
It is one of very few UK employers where physics, chemistry and materials graduates work on classified, long-horizon research with genuinely large facilities behind them.
All roles are based around Aldermaston and Burghfield in Berkshire and require UK nationality plus full security clearance, which adds time to the hiring process.
Why work here
- Deep scientific work — laser physics, hydrodynamics, materials and modelling — not just process engineering.
- Very strong training and mentoring culture, with time protected for professional registration.
- Stable, long-term funded programmes rather than project-to-project contracts.
- Apprentices are trained in a dedicated technical academy on site.
STEM roles they hire
Physics & modellingChemistry & materialsMechanical engineeringElectrical & control systemsRadiation protectionHigh-performance computingManufacturing engineeringHealth, safety & environment
Entry routes
Engineering & Manufacturing Apprenticeship
- Starts
- September
- Duration
- 4 years
- Degree needed
- No
- Salary
- £18,000+
Degree Apprenticeship
- Starts
- September
- Duration
- 5 years
- Degree needed
- No
- Salary
- £21,000+, fees paid
Salary and benefits
Apprentice year 1£18,000 – £20,000
Graduate£32,000 – £36,000
Chartered scientist/engineer£45,000 – £60,000
- Nine-day fortnight options
- Generous pension
- Funded chartership
- On-site training academy
Application tips
- 1.Apply early — security clearance can take months, and offers are timed around it.
- 2.Show comfort with maths and modelling; many roles are simulation-heavy.
- 3.Be able to explain a science project you did in detail, including what went wrong.