Engineering
Automation Apprentice (RME)
Amazon
Location
Multiple sites across the UK and Ireland
Salary
Competitive
Duration
48 months
Hours per week
40h
Degree awarded
BSc in Controls Engineering
Start date
1 September 2026
Minimum grades
A Levels Grade A–C in Maths, IT, Physics, or Engineering (or BTEC Level 3 Engineering DMM or above), GCSEs Grade 4/C or above including Maths and English
About the role
As an Automation Apprentice within the Reliability Maintenance Engineering (RME) team, you'll work with cutting-edge robotics and automated systems that power Amazon's fulfilment centres and sortation sites. You'll gain experience maintaining and improving large-scale technology used by thousands of employees and millions of customers every day. Year 1 involves residential classroom training (Monday–Friday) at one of their training providers or Amazon training centres with accommodation and travel support provided. Years 2 & 3 involve on-the-job learning in operational sites combined with block-release study towards your HNC/D in Electrical or Controls Engineering. Year 4 involves completing a major work-based project and studying towards your BSc in Controls Engineering.
Requirements
Have the right to work in the UK before the start date. Be aged 18 or over by September 2026. Hold 2 A Levels (or equivalent) in Maths, IT, Physics, or Engineering (Grade A–C), or a BTEC Level 3 Engineering qualification (DMM or above, including Further Maths). Hold 5 GCSEs (Grade 4/C or above), including Maths and English. Be resident in the UK, EEA, or a British Overseas Territory for at least 3 years prior to September 2026. Hold a valid visa for the full duration of the programme. Not already hold or be studying towards a higher degree in a related subject. If qualifications were gained outside the UK, must provide a Statement of Comparability from UK ENIC.
Working week
40 hours per week, including potential night and weekend shifts, typically 14 shifts in 28 days
Skills
Robotics and automation systemsPLC programming and industrial controlsPredictive maintenance and diagnosticsSmart sensors and IoT integrationData analytics for performance improvementElectrical and mechanical fault-finding
Required qualifications
Essential
A Level · Maths, IT, Physics, or Engineering · Grade A-C
Essential
GCSE · Maths · Grade 4
Essential
GCSE · English · Grade 4
Desired
BTEC · Level 3 Engineering · Grade DMM
Training & development
Year 1: Residential classroom training (Monday–Friday) at training providers or Amazon training centres. Accommodation and travel support provided if based outside commutable distance. Years 2 & 3: On-the-job learning in operational sites combined with block-release study towards HNC/D in Electrical or Controls Engineering. Year 4: Major work-based project and BSc in Controls Engineering study.
Company benefits
Fully funded BSc in Controls Engineering. Accommodation and travel support provided for residential training if based outside commutable distance. Hands-on experience with cutting-edge robotics and automation technology.
Things to consider
You'll work on shift patterns that reflect real-world engineering schedules, including days, nights, and weekends - typically 14 shifts in 28 days, offering excellent work-life balance. No prior automation experience is needed - just enthusiasm, a growth mindset, and a desire to learn from industry experts.
About Amazon
Amazon is a global e-commerce and technology company operating fulfilment centres and sortation sites worldwide. The company is looking for curious, hands-on problem solvers who love understanding how things work and have a passion for technology, robotics, or engineering.