Engineering Apprentice

Your work will involve a wide range of activities, including installation, testing, fault-finding, and planned maintenance of complex automated equipment.  This role requires applying a unique blend of skills and knowledge across electrical, electronic, mechanical, fluid power, along with the right professional behaviours to succeed in a dynamic engineering setting. Reading and interpreting technical data and documentation to maintain components, equipment, and systems. Monitoring the condition of plant and equipment to ensure optimal performance. Carrying out planned maintenance activities to keep machinery running smoothly. Diagnosing and repairing complex faults on advanced engineered systems, including mechanical equipment, fluid and pneumatic power systems, electrical and electronic equipment. Performing confirmation testing and ensuring a smooth handover of equipment and plant after maintenance or repair. Supporting installation, testing, and commissioning of new equipment (where applicable). Identifying opportunities for improvement in working practices, processes, and procedures to contribute to business efficiency.

Training:

During your apprenticeship, you’ll receive hands-on training and develop the skills needed to succeed in a high-tech engineering environment.

Year 1

Monday: College studies with City College Plymouth (at BD site). Tuesday & Wednesday: Working at BD Plymouth. Thursday & Friday: College studies at City College Plymouth.

Year 2

1 day per week at college. 4 days per week working at BD Plymouth.

Year 3

1 day per week at college. Remaining days working at BD Plymouth.

Standard Hours (Years 1–2)

Monday to Friday. Total: 37.5 hours per week.

Shift Pattern in Year 3

Continuous days: 11:00am to 11:00pm. 3 days on, 3 days off. Includes basic salary plus 22% shift premium.

Training Outcome:

On successful completion of the apprenticeship programme, you’ll have the opportunity to progress into a full-time role as a Technician within our operations team.

Technicians are responsible for all technical and processing activities involved in the manufacture of medical devices, as well as key operational responsibilities on the shop floor.

Towards the end of your apprenticeship and once you transition into a Technician role, you will work 12-hour continuous shifts on one of the following fixed patterns:

Continuous Days: 11:00 am – 11:00 pm, 3 days on / 3 days off (basic salary plus 22% shift premium) Continuous Nights: 11:00 pm – 11:00 am, 3 nights on / 3 nights off (basic salary plus 32% shift premium).

Please note: These shift patterns do not rotate between days and nights—you will work one or the other.

This is a fantastic opportunity to build a long-term career with a global leader in healthcare manufacturing.

Employer Description:

Become a Maker of Possible

BD is one of the largest global medical technology companies in the world. Our purpose—Advancing the World of Health™—drives everything we do. From design and engineering to manufacturing and marketing billions of MedTech products each year, we turn challenges into possibilities.

Now, we’re offering an exciting opportunity to join BD Plymouth as a Engineering Apprentice, where you’ll gain hands-on experience, industry-recognised qualifications, and the chance to build a rewarding career.

BD Plymouth is one of the leading facilities in Europe for producing evacuated tubes and needles, including BD Vacutainer® blood collection products used worldwide. Located in the stunning South West of England, our site has been operating since 1981 and now  employs over 850 talented people. Over the past 40+ years we’ve grown into a world-class operation, and we’re inviting you to be part of our journey.

Why Join Us?

BD is proud to be certified as a Top Employer 2025 in the UK reflecting our commitment to creating an exceptional working environment. A career at BD means learning alongside inspirational leaders and colleagues in a culture that values growth, inclusion, and innovation.

At BD Plymouth, you’ll be part of a company that truly makes a difference in global healthcare—saving and improving lives every day. We value creativity, innovation, and fresh ideas, and we’ll support you in developing solutions that benefit people everywhere.

We’re committed to giving back through charitable and community initiatives, and we provide a modern, supportive environment where you can learn, grow, and thrive.

What We Offer

A chance to start your career with a global healthcare leader

Training and development opportunities to help you reach your potential Recognition and rewards for your contributions A healthy work-life balance

 

Who Can Apply?

If you’re enthusiastic, eager to learn, and ready to make a real impact, we’d love to hear from you. Join BD Plymouth and help us continue to deliver world-class healthcare solutions.

Working Hours :
Year 1: 3 days at City College Plymouth, 2 days at BD Plymouth (Mon–Fri). Year 2: 1 day college, 4 days at BD (Mon–Fri). Year 3: 1 day college, work at BD on shifts: 11am–11pm, 3 days on /3 days off, includes weekend working.

Skills:
Communication skills,IT skills,Attention to detail,Organisation skills,Problem solving skills,Presentation skills,Number skills,Logical,Team working,Initiative,Non judgemental,Patience,Adaptable,Energy and enthusiasm,Self-motivation and discipline,Reliability and punctuality,Integrity and honesty,Creativity & practical ability,Commitment to safety,Initiative and ownership,Curiosity,Willingness to learn,Practical, hands-on ability