Jack
Apprentice Welder
"Being an apprentice in the nuclear sector at Rolls-Royce has changed my life. It’s an industry that challenges you to grow, and the work being done is extraordinary."
Discovering apprenticeships in nuclear
Considering applying for an apprenticeship in the nuclear sector, but unsure where to start or which specialism to choose? Inspired by his grandad, who worked in the industry, Jack explored apprenticeships through Destination Nuclear, where he came across an opportunity to learn welding at Rolls-Royce Submarines.
Jack talks us through his expectations of nuclear before starting his journey, the key milestones throughout his apprenticeship, and the advice he’d give to someone considering a career in the sector.
What is a nuclear apprenticeship really like? Expectation vs Reality
Before starting his apprenticeship at Rolls-Royce Submarines and joining the nuclear sector, Jack admits his knowledge was limited. “What really surprised me was the scale of the operation. Seeing the size of some components and understanding where my work fits into the production of safety-critical systems has been incredible. It makes me really proud to be part of a company that operates to such high standards and plays a role in keeping the UK and submariners safe,” he explains.
Like many, Jack expected to jump straight into highly complex tasks, given the sheer size and importance of the operation, with little room for error.
“While tolerances are small, the processes and procedures are well structured, which helps make them manageable in practice”
An apprenticeship full of opportunity
An apprenticeship at Rolls-Royce isn’t short of opportunities, as Jack explains, “I’ve tried to take every opportunity available to me, including entering WorldSkills UK. My tutor introduced me to the competition after I performed well in my first year at the Nuclear Skills Academy, and it quickly became a goal I wanted to work towards.”
Supporting young people across the UK through competition-based training, assessment, and benchmarking, WorldSkills UK helps challenge apprentices to achieve world-class standards in the biennial ‘skills olympics’.
Setting the target to enter the March 2025 competition after his first performance review, Jack admitted it felt ambitious at the time. Still, he progressed through the entry stage and regionals, eventually qualifying for the nationals in Wales. “After a lot of practice and preparation, I went on to win Gold. Hearing my name called was an incredibly rewarding moment and made all the hard work worthwhile,” Jack recalls.
He went on to say, “Winning Gold at the national finals was a highlight, but the experience also helped me build skills beyond welding, like working under pressure and adapting to different techniques.”
The milestones didn’t stop there. Jack remembers another proud moment of being mentioned by an MP in Parliament, following a conversation at Nuclear Week.
“That recognition made me very proud and highlights the impact apprenticeship schemes, especially in nuclear, can have.”
"Seeing my development, from welding entry-level joints to working on complex vessels and X-ray coupons, has been hugely satisfying."
Supporting the next wave of nuclear talent
With an estimated 40,000 new roles expected to open in nuclear by 2030, Jack suggests that more organisations should be talking to the younger generation about the benefits of nuclear. “
“Rolls-Royce does this well through exhibitions and open evenings, where apprentices can share their experiences. Speaking first-hand about what it’s really like to work in the sector helps make it feel more accessible and shows the range of opportunities available.” Jack went on to say.
“I think awareness is key. When I was looking for an apprenticeship, I wasn’t aware of many of the opportunities in the industry. But once I saw the role at Rolls-Royce, it immediately felt right.”
What Jack would tell someone considering a nuclear apprenticeship
Nuclear is a sector where ideas become impact. “It’s a real and exciting career option. If you’re not completely sure, my advice would be to spend some time researching the industry and the role it plays in energy security, defence and national security.”
Jack concludes,
“You might be surprised by how many transferable skills you already have that could help you get started in the sector.”
Your questions, answered honestly
Welding apprenticeship FAQs
What does a nuclear welder do?
Working as a nuclear welder, you’ll play a vital role in energy, defence, and advanced manufacturing.
You could be working at a nuclear power plant, naval shipyard, or defence manufacturing facility, constructing, maintaining, and repairing nuclear-powered vessels, or ensuring that systems meet safety standards, thereby reducing the risk of leaks or radiation exposure in nuclear facilities.
What is the average UK salary for a nuclear welder?
Nuclear welding apprenticeships generally range between £16,000 and £24,000, typically increasing with each year as you gain on-the-job experience.
If you’ve already got a relevant welding qualification and safety, an entry-level role has a baseline of £35,000. Most companies offer a shift allowance on top of salary, which is extra pay given to employees who work unusual hours, such as nights and weekends.
What apprenticeships are available in the nuclear sector?
Whether you’re just finishing school and hoping to earn a qualification through an apprenticeship, or are looking for a fresh start, you can browse our apprenticeships to find the pathway that’s right for you.
How do I know which pathway is right for me?
If you’re not sure whether a welding apprenticeship is right for you, there are plenty of other routes into nuclear. With roles in project management, cybersecurity, and engineering available, the sector offers a wide range of pathways for people ready to build a long‑term, future‑proof career.
Why not take our career fit quiz? It can help you identify where your skills could take you.
What are the top companies for hiring for nuclear careers?
The UK nuclear sector comprises a wide range of organisations, each playing a different role in supporting the future of clean energy.
If you’re exploring where you might fit, our organisation hub lets you browse opportunities across each company, compare roles, and get a clearer picture of the employers shaping the sector.
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