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 1 year 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 DescriptionReporting to: The Apprenticeship Manager and Apprenticeship SupervisorJob purpose: Working with metals to create high-strength welds in 2 welding positions, using at least 1 arc welding process in order to support production at Navantia UK.What will you learn doing this apprenticeship: ·Gain hands-on experience through a safe workplace placement, providing vocational training and education Practical on the job trainingOne-to-one dedicated mentoringShipyard training facilitiesOpportunity to earn while you learnProgression: There are numerous pathways for General Welders who may wish to pursue higher level careers in welding. These include progression to Multi-Positional Welder, High Integrity Welder or Welding Instruction and Teaching, Welding Inspection and Managing and Supervising Welding Operations.Job DutiesLearn how to produce good quality welds using two welding process/material type combinations (TIG, MMA, MIG/MAG, FCAW) and (Carbon and Low Alloy steel, High Alloy Ferritic/Martensitic Steel, Austenitic Stainless Steel, Nickel and Nickel Alloys, Aluminium and Aluminium Alloys) in two welding positions (Downhand, Horizontal, Vertical, Overhead)Attain a qualification in accordance with one of the following standards: ISO 9606 / ASME IX / BS4872 / AWS D1.1 (these qualifications are regarded as licences to practice in welding)Achieve a quality of work to meet international standards for dimensional and surface inspection (Visual, Magnetic Particle Inspection and Dye Penetrant Inspection)Learn the proper procedure in positioning, preparing and checking the welding equipmentLearn the proper procedure in receiving, handling and maintaining consumablesLearn how to prepare, check and protect materials and work area ready for weldingLearn to complete and check the finished weld ready for inspection and report into the production control systemEnsure that health and safety requirements are fully accounted for in all the aboveQualificationsEssentialHold a minimum a of GCSE grade C/4, National 5 (or Equivalent) in Mathematics and EnglishExcellent communication skills with the ability to use your own initiative and a strong drive to succeed are all essentialEnthusiasm and determination to learnSelf-starter and motivated personAbility to get on with colleagues and customers. Commitment to upholding high health and safety standardsResponsibility, reliability and dedicationKey Interpersonal/Behavioural SkillsAbility to establish an appropriate course of action for self and/or others to accomplish a goalEffectiveness in identifying possible problems for upward reporting/investigationAbility to express ideas or facts in a clear mannerProfessional and pro-active work ethicAdditional InformationOn OfferCompetitive hourly rateCompany pensionHealth care cash plan (optional)33 days holidayLife assuranceGreat opportunity to kick start your careerWe 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@ and one of the team will be in contact to help you.
Job Title
Weld Apprenticeship (Belfast)