General FAQs
Who can apply?
Please note that you must be a British Citizen to apply for a role with us and we’ll need to know if you’ve lived outside of the UK at any point in the last 10 years.
When do applications open?
Applications to all Early Careers programmes open on the 16th September 2024. If you would like to register your interest prior to this date, you can do so by clicking on one of the links below:
Please note: The roles Nuclear Engineering (Mechanical) and Nuclear Engineering (Electrical) are not going live until 14th October.
What would my start date be?
- Graduates: 29th September 2025
- Apprentices: 27th August 2025
- Year in Industry: 4th August 2025
- DSUS Placement Scheme: 1st July 2025
What does the recruitment process look like?
The steps in our recruitment process are the same across all programmes (graduates, undergraduates and apprentices). However, the questions you will see and the skills we are looking for are tailored to the programme you are applying to.
We have a simple three step process:
- All applicants are asked to complete the relevant online application form and upload requested information.
- If you are successful at this stage you’ll be invited to complete the online assessment for the role you are applying to.
- After that, successful candidates will be invited to participate in a virtual centres. Offers will then be made.
Please be assured that we’ll provide you with full information about each stage in the process when you receive your invitations.
We are very keen to know if you need any adjustments for any type of disability. We are here to help. AWE is committed to protecting the privacy and security of your personal information please see the DPA statement.
Can candidates contact you with queries?
For queries about an application or our recruitment process please contact: [email protected].
For queries after you receive your contract, please contact our onboarding team on 0118 982 9000 or by email [email protected].
How will I know my application has been received?
You will receive an acknowledgement from us via an automated email, which you will receive shortly after submitting your application.
How long will AWE hold my personal information for?
We will hold your application information for 12 months, after which time it will be removed from the system automatically. In line with GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) guidelines, if you are not successful at any stage, you’ll be asked if you would be happy for AWE to retain your information for future career matches. If the answer is no, we will remove your details from the system immediately. We are committed to protecting the privacy and security of your personal information. Privacy Notice – AWE
I haven’t been successful; can I re-apply?
You are only allowed to make one application per year. You can re-apply in future campaigns, although we would encourage you to only do so when you feel ready, having reflected on your previous application and any feedback provided.
I have heard about Security Clearance being a requirement at AWE. What is this and why do I need it?
Because of the nature of the work we do, we require all potential employees to go through a Security Clearance check if they are offered a role with us. This check is run by the UK Security Vetting Agency(UKSV). Depending on the level of clearance required you may be asked to complete some forms, upload ID and/or attend an in-person interview and/or medical assessment.
How long will the Security Vetting process take?
The Security Vetting process can take up to 6 months. We will advise you on how to get updates on this from UKSV.
What happens between accepting my offer and joining AWE?
We want to stay connected and for you to feel supported while you wait for your security clearance. Throughout the programme you will be provided with the opportunity to attend online sessions, meet your peers, and get to know the people at AWE.
My Security Clearance hasn’t come through yet, should I hold off on relocating?
We strongly recommend that you hold off on relocating until your Security Clearance has been received from UKSV and your start date has been confirmed by AWE.
What support do you give to new joiners on the graduate, undergraduate or apprentice programmes with regards to supporting health and wellbeing?
Underpinned by the AWE’s wellbeing strategy, we have a dedicated graduate, undergraduate and apprentice wellbeing programme that focuses on supporting the four pillars of wellbeing: physical, emotional, social, and financial. We have a variety of wellbeing initiatives and support tools to benefit you. These include an established network of Wellbeing Champions, a monthly wellbeing calendar of activities, a financial education platform and a comprehensive employee assistance programme. You can read more here.
Do you provide reasonable adjustments for candidates with a disability?
We are very keen to know if you need any adjustments for any type of disability. We are here to help. Please get in touch by email [email protected].
Graduate FAQs
Can I apply for more than one EVOLVE Graduate pathway at a time?
We strongly encourage you to take your time to decide which pathway best matches your skills and aspirations. Please note that we cannot accept more than one application per candidate.
What happens at the end of the graduate programme?
During the 2 year programme you will be assessed against a set of objectives and milestones to keep you on-track with the programme. We will engage with you long before your 2 years ends to help and advise you on role options.
Apprentice FAQs
Can I apply for more than one apprenticeship role at a time?
Please apply for no more than one roles. We encourage you to take the time to reflect on which apprenticeship you feel matches your aspirations and motivations.
What happens at the end of the apprenticeship programme?
You will move into a role within the business. From here, you will progress your career as an AWE employee.
Where will I study when I join a degree apprenticeship?
- Project Management- Weston College of Further and Higher Education, Weston-Super-Mare
- Manufacturing – New Bucks University (Newbury College satellite centre)
- Nuclear Eng Electrical – National College for Nuclear, Bridgwater
- Nuclear Eng Mechanical – National College for Nuclear, Bridgwater
- Electronic Design – Farnborough College Of Technology (FCOT).
- Building Services – South Bank University, London
- Design and Construction Management – South Bank University, London
Undergraduate FAQs
Can I apply for more than one undergraduate role at a time?
We strongly encourage you to take your time to decide which pathway best matches your skills and aspirations. Please note that we cannot accept more than one application per candidate.
What happens at the end of the undergraduate programme?
There will be two clear options for you at AWE after you graduate, depending on the potential you have shown during your placement: joining our flagship Evolve graduate programme or entering directly into a specific role. Either way, we will be engaging with you long before you leave your placement to help and advise you on your best course of action.
Working at AWE
By playing your part in keeping the nation safe and secure, you’ll have access to exceptional technologies, facilities and projects no ordinary company can provide