Automation Engineering Apprentice - West Midlands (48-month fixed term contract)

Ever wondered what it's like to orchestrate a symphony of robots? Picture yourself at the controls of one of the world's most sophisticated automated networks - where thousands of robots work in perfect harmony, artificial intelligence makes split-second decisions, and breakthrough technology comes to life. This isn't science fiction. This is Amazon, and it could be your everyday workspace as an Automation Apprentice.

Our fulfilment centres are like living, breathing cities of automation: hundreds of autonomous robots collaborating to fulfil customer orders, AI and machine-learning systems making real-time decisions, conveyor systems spanning miles, robotic arms handling packages with incredible precision, and automated storage and retrieval systems redefining what efficiency looks like. As an Automation Apprentice within our Reliability Maintenance Engineering (RME) team, you'll be hands-on with technology most people only read about, working alongside industry pioneers. This isn't just maintenance - it's being part of a team that innovates, improves, and reimagines automation technology every single day, with the chance to see your own ideas come to life in real-world applications.

Are you the person who took things apart to see how they worked? Maybe you built a PC, fixed everyone's tech, loved robotics club or Lego Technic, tinkered with a car or bike, or found physics, electronics or design and technology just clicked. Or maybe you've spent a few years in a hands-on role and want to step up into cutting-edge automation. You don't need to be an engineer already - what matters is curiosity about how things work, a logical, problem-solving mind, and the patience to figure out why something's gone wrong and put it right. If that sounds like you, this could be the start of something extraordinary.

• A day in the life can involve:
• - Supporting maintenance and fault-finding on automated systems and robotics
• - Using diagnostic tools to keep conveyors and sortation equipment running smoothly
• - Planning preventative maintenance and safety checks
• - Collaborating with engineers to develop new process improvements and energy-efficient solutions

• Throughout your apprenticeship, you'll gain both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience across:
• - Advanced robotics systems, controls, and industrial automation programming
• - Smart sensor technology and IoT integration
• - Predictive maintenance and performance optimisation through data analytics
• - Safety systems for human-robot collaboration
• - Machine learning applications and wider Industry 4.0 technologies

Here at Amazon, it's in our nature to learn and be curious. Within this apprenticeship, you'll learn by doing, putting newfound knowledge into practice every day. Our first-class coaching, tailored development opportunities, and challenging, rewarding work will empower you to reach new heights. If you're a curious learner eager to grow, this is your chance to unlock your full potential and build the future you envision.

Within this 48-month programme, you'll work towards the Level 6 Control Technical Support Apprenticeship, combining practical, on-the-job experience with industry-recognised study. Your first 12 months will be a full-time residential programme, based either at one of our external training provider facilities or at our own world-class Amazon training centres - reflecting our significant investment in developing state-of-the-art facilities for the next generation of engineers. If you live outside a commutable distance, accommodation will be provided during term time for these first 12 months, and travel expenses will be supported. In later years, your on-the-job training will work towards a BSc in Controls and Automation Engineering and an HNC/D in Electrical/Controls Engineering.

This role supports our 24/7 operation, so you'll work shifts covering days, nights and weekends - patterns that reflect the real-world schedules of the engineers who keep Amazon operating around the clock.

You'll join a diverse and passionate team of engineers dedicated to driving results and pushing creative boundaries. We value different perspectives and experiences, and we're dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. Our employee-led affinity groups - including communities for women in tech, LGBTQ+ employees, and underrepresented minorities - foster a culture of inclusion that empowers us to be proud of our differences. These groups provide community, mentorship, and a platform for your voice to be heard. We're committed to building a workforce that reflects the customers and communities we serve.

We're continuously raising our performance bar as we strive to become Earth's Best Employer. That's why you'll find endless knowledge-sharing, mentorship, and other career-advancing resources here to help you develop into a well-rounded professional.

The robots are waiting - are you ready to take control? Turn your passion for technology into an extraordinary career at the forefront of engineering innovation. Apply now and be part of the team writing the future of automation.

Basic qualifications

• - To qualify for this programme, you must:
• - Be 18 years or over before the start date (September 2027)
• - Have the right to live and work in England at the point of enrolment (June 2027). If you are on a visa, this must enable you to legally work and reside in England for the entire duration of the programme from enrolment.
• - Have lived in the UK or in the European Economic Area (EEA) for the last 3 years prior to the start date
• - Not be registered to study on a UK government funded course ending August 2027 or later
• - Be prepared to travel for external/mandatory training as part of the apprenticeship
• - 5 GCSEs at grade 4-9 (A-C) or above (or equivalent) including Maths and English.
• - Three A levels (or equivalent) at C (grade 4) or above in either Mathematics, IT, Physics, or an Engineering related subject, OR have completed a BTEC level 3 engineering qualification of 180 credits which must include further mathematics
• - Please note, if you have received educational qualifications outside of the UK then we will require a Statement of Comparability to confirm your eligibility for the scheme. Please ensure you obtain one during the application process, through UK ENIC: https://www.enic.org.uk/
• - Previous qualifications will be reviewed for funding eligibility and offers are subject to funding approval
• - PLEASE NOTE: This position is a 48 month fixed-term contract. You must NOT already have a qualification in a similar subject at the same or higher level than this apprenticeship.
• - This Apprenticeship assumes the candidate has some or little knowledge/experience of the occupation

Preferred qualifications

• - A genuine interest in robotics, automation or engineering - whether that's through a hobby, a project, a club, or simply a habit of taking things apart to understand how they work
• - A foundation in a STEM subject such as physics, electronics, design and technology, maths or computing (through school, college, self-study or a previous role)
• - Confidence with basic diagnostic or problem-solving approaches - the instinct to work out why something has gone wrong, not just that it has
• - Familiarity with digital tools, coding or programming concepts, or a willingness to build these skills
• - Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to collaborate across a busy, fast-paced operation
• - A safety-first mindset and the reliability to work shift patterns, including days, nights and weekends

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