Electrician Apprentice

  • Full-time
  • Location: Belfast (New Build)
  • Department: Apprentice / Graduate / Intern
  • Employment Type: Apprenticeship

Company Description

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 apprenticeship journey starts with a Level 2 in Engineering Operations. This is a general engineering apprenticeship covering Electrical, Technical Design, Fabrication, Welding, Mechanical Engineering. On average this takes 12 months months to complete. If you have already completed a Level 2 in Engineering Operations or equivalent, you will not have to repeat this.

Once you have completed the Level 2 in Engineering Operations, you can proceed with a Level 3 in this specific trade area. The length of each apprenticeship depends on your ability, the type of apprenticeship and the location you complete it in. Level 3 Trade specific apprenticeship on average takes 2 – 2.5 years.

Your time will be split between study with your training provider and time putting your skills into practice in the yard. We have dedicated college partners at each yard where you can develop your skills and to provide you with support throughout your apprenticeship. 

  • Yard Tour Week Commencing 6th April - Approx. 1hrs 
  • Interview & Assessment dates to be between 13th April - 24th April - Approx. 3hrs 

Start dates will be around August/September 2026.

Job Description

The Apprentice Electrician will work under the supervision of qualified electricians and engineering staff to develop the knowledge, skills, and behaviours required to safely and effectively maintain electrical systems across the business. The role combines workplace learning with completion of the ETCAL Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Electrical and Electronic Engineering 1. 

The apprentice will support maintenance activities, learn fault‑finding techniques, gain competence in installation and testing tasks, and contribute to planned and reactive maintenance across plant equipment. 

Under supervision, the apprentice will learn to: 

  • Read and interpret electrical and electronic circuit diagrams and engineering documentation  
  • Assist in troubleshooting, diagnosing, and repairing electrical faults on motors, generators, controllers, switchboards, DC systems, and plant equipment 
  • Support installation and maintenance of electrical, electromechanical, and electronic components of machinery and equipment 
  • Carry out preventive maintenance tasks on plant electrical systems 
  • Follow safe working practices in accordance with statutory regulations and organisational safety requirements (aligned to NVQ mandatory units) 
  • Use tools, test equipment and diagnostic instruments safely and effectively 
  • Record maintenance activities in line with company procedures 

Health, Safety & Compliance 

  • Comply with RAMS / SSOW / Permits / LOTO procedures, all of these will be taught  
  • Follow site safety rules and relevant electrical legislation 

Qualifications

Entry Requirements 

  • Minimum GCSE C Mathematic, English Language and Science, plus 2 other GCSE (GCSE C or equivalent). Essential Skills, Functional Skills and Core skills can not be accepted for this role.  
  • Interest in electrical engineering, maintenance, or technical problem-solving 
  • Good practical and hands-on ability 

Behavioural Competencies 

  • Excellent problem-solving attitude 2 
  • Good communication skills 
  • Willingness to learn and follow instruction 
  • Commitment to teamwork and safe working 
  • Ability to work efficiently and manage tasks effectively (NVQ mandatory unit) 3 

Additional Information

On Offer

  • Competitive base pay
  • Company pension
  • 33 days holiday
  • Life assurance

Apprenticeship Details

  • Apprenticeship Level: Level 3 (Electrical & Electronic Engineering) 
  • Training Provider: (Northern Regional College) 
  • Duration: Typically 3–4 years 
  • Assessment: Portfolio, workplace observations, and competency assessments (NVQ is pass/fail) 4 
  • Off-the-Job Training: Minimum 20% as per funding requirements 

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 [email protected] and one of the team will be in contact to help you.

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