Technical Apprentice - Production and Prototyping

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Technical Apprentice - Production and Prototyping

Company: Roke

Location: Fareham, England, United Kingdom; Romsey, England, United Kingdom; Woking, England, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Operations - Production & Manufacturing Operations

Date Posted: 2026-05-11T00:00:00

Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This is an entry-level apprenticeship focused on hands-on production and prototyping within Roke's Defence Business Unit.

• The role requires active participation in the build, test, and assembly of both volume and prototype products, contributing to critical defence and national security missions.

• You will gain practical experience in manufacturing processes, quality control, and cross-functional collaboration with engineering, supply chain, and logistics teams.

• This position offers a structured pathway to develop technical skills and gain a degree qualification while contributing to Roke's mission of solving meaningful problems and building capability.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title suggests a "Technical Apprentice," the input data and description point towards a role focused on "Production and Prototyping" within a defence context. This enhancement focuses on the operational aspects of production, manufacturing, and assembly, with a strong emphasis on the apprenticeship learning model and its integration into a defence-oriented business unit. The category is refined to "Operations - Production & Manufacturing Operations" to accurately reflect the core duties.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Engage in the comprehensive build, test, and assembly of a variety of volume and prototype products within the Defence Business Unit.

• Support the achievement of yearly build and revenue targets through diligent execution of production tasks.

• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including Production, Planning, Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and Logistics, to ensure smooth operational flow.

• Adhere to stringent quality control standards and procedures throughout the production and assembly process.

• Participate in the manufacturing and upgrade of solutions designed to support customer missions globally, contributing to Roke's information advantage capabilities.

• Assist in the development and refinement of production processes to enhance efficiency and output quality.

• Maintain a safe and organized working environment in line with company health and safety regulations.

• Support the integration of human factors considerations into production and product design stages.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities have been expanded from the general description to detail the specific operational tasks involved in production and prototyping. This includes emphasizing cross-functional collaboration, quality adherence, and the direct contribution to business targets, all within the context of defence technology.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• As per apprenticeship partner (Chichester University) requirements: 3 x A-Levels with a grade C or above, specifically including Mathematics, OR

• Equivalent BTEC Level 3 vocational qualifications, OR

• Relevant demonstrable work experience in a production or technical environment.

Experience:

• While this is an apprenticeship role, prior exposure to production, assembly, or technical environments is beneficial.

• Proven ability to learn new technical skills and processes quickly.

Required Skills:

• Foundational understanding of production and manufacturing principles.

• Basic proficiency in technical problem-solving and troubleshooting.

• Ability to interpret technical drawings, schematics, or assembly instructions.

• Strong commitment to quality and attention to detail in execution.

• Effective communication skills for cross-functional team collaboration.

• Willingness to learn and adapt to new technologies and processes.

Preferred Skills:

• Hands-on experience with prototyping or small-scale manufacturing.

• Familiarity with testing and quality assurance procedures in a technical setting.

• Basic knowledge of supply chain and logistics principles.

• Exposure to engineering or technical documentation.

• Familiarity with lean manufacturing or process improvement concepts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications have been detailed to reflect both the academic requirements for the apprenticeship and the practical skills sought for operational roles in production and prototyping. The security clearance requirement is highlighted as a critical prerequisite.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly requested for an apprentice role, candidates are encouraged to highlight any projects, coursework, or personal initiatives demonstrating practical application of technical or production skills.

• Examples could include personal projects involving building or repairing electronics, model making, or contributions to any technical club or activity.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate an understanding of following documented procedures and work instructions.

• Ability to provide feedback on existing processes for potential improvement.

• Willingness to learn and contribute to process documentation as part of the apprenticeship.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an apprentice role, portfolio requirements are typically less formal. This section focuses on demonstrating potential and a methodical approach rather than a pre-built portfolio of past professional achievements. Emphasis is placed on the candidate's ability to learn and adapt to documented processes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• As this is an apprenticeship, specific salary details are typically aligned with national apprenticeship wage standards and Roke's internal apprenticeship program structure. A competitive rate for apprentices in the UK defence technology sector is expected.

• Estimated Apprenticeship Salary: £15,000 - £22,000 per annum (This is an estimate based on typical UK apprenticeship wages for technical roles and may vary based on Roke's specific program and the apprentice's progression.)

Benefits:

• Annual bonus: Based on profit share and personal performance.

• Healthcare Cash Plan Cover: To help cover the costs of routine healthcare.

• Holiday: 30 days per year (including a Festive shutdown period) plus public holidays.

• Opportunity to buy and sell annual leave.

• Chemring Share Save: Option to save monthly into a 3 or 5-year plan.

• 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme: To support mental wellbeing.

• Contributing to a mission that makes the world a safer place.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, likely around 37.5 hours per week, with potential for hybrid working arrangements.

• Includes dedicated time for university study (1.5 days/week in Year 1, 1 day/week in Years 2-4).

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on typical UK apprenticeship rates. Benefits are detailed directly from the provided text, emphasizing those most relevant to a long-term career development path. Working hours are clarified to include study time.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Technology, Engineering, Defence, National Security, Intelligence-as-a-Service. Roke operates at the forefront of technological innovation to support critical government and defence missions.

Company Size: Roke has been growing significantly, having doubled in size over the last few years, indicating a dynamic and expanding organization. This suggests opportunities for exposure to diverse projects and career paths.

Founded: Roke has a heritage spanning over 70 years, providing a strong foundation of expertise and reputation in its specialized fields.

Team Structure:

• The apprentice will join the Future Compute team within the Information Advantage area of the Defence Business Unit.

• They will work within the Production part of the Defence BU, focusing on build, test, and assembly.

• Collaboration is key, involving regular interaction with Production, Planning, Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and Logistics teams.

Methodology:

• Roke's approach involves solving meaningful problems and building capability that protects what matters most, often through dynamic insights derived from data analysis.

• They emphasize taking human factors into account at every stage of product and service design.

• Innovation in technology is a core driver, with a focus on shaping tomorrow's solutions.

• The company fosters an environment of trust, tools, and freedom for its employees to make a difference.

Company Website: https://www.roke.co.uk/

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides context on Roke's industry position, growth trajectory, and operational culture, highlighting the defence focus and collaborative environment relevant to an operations apprentice.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level apprenticeship position designed to build foundational skills in production and prototyping operations. It represents the initial step in a technical career path within a specialized defence industry.

Reporting Structure: The apprentice will report to a Production Team Lead or Manager, with guidance and mentorship provided by experienced professionals within the production and engineering teams. They will also have academic oversight from Chichester University.

Operations Impact: As an apprentice, your work directly contributes to Roke's ability to deliver critical products and solutions for defence and national security clients. You will play a role in meeting build targets, ensuring product quality, and supporting the overall operational efficiency of the Defence Business Unit.

Growth Opportunities:

• Structured Apprenticeship Program: Comprehensive on-the-job training combined with academic study for a Digital & Technology Solutions Degree.

• Skill Development: Gain practical experience in manufacturing, assembly, testing, quality control, and potentially basic engineering principles.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Opportunity to work with and learn from various departments, including Engineering, Supply Chain, and Quality Assurance.

• Career Progression: Potential to advance into roles such as Production Technician, Quality Inspector, Manufacturing Engineer, or other technical specializations within Roke upon successful completion of the apprenticeship.

• Security Clearance: Opportunity to gain valuable security clearances (BPSS, SC, DV), which are highly sought after in the defence sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: This analysis focuses on the specific growth trajectory of an apprentice in a technical operations role within Roke, emphasizing the structured learning, skill acquisition, and potential career paths available.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The primary work location in Romsey is described as a manor house site, offering a unique and pleasant working environment, distinct from a typical corporate setting. It is situated in the Hampshire countryside, close to the New Forest and the coast.

Office Location(s):

• Romsey, Hampshire, England (Primary production site)

• Fareham, Hampshire, England

• Woking, Surrey, England Workspace Context:

• The Romsey site offers ample parking, an on-site gym, and a scenic environment.

• The role involves hands-on work within production and prototyping areas, requiring a practical, workshop-style environment.

• Collaboration will occur within a team setting, with opportunities for interaction with engineers and other technical staff.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time employment, with dedicated days for university study.

• Potential for hybrid working arrangements, though hands-on production duties will require on-site presence.

• The schedule is designed to accommodate both practical work experience and academic learning.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description of the Romsey site as a "manor house" and its rural location provides unique context for the work environment, differentiating it from standard industrial settings.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Submit an up-to-date CV through the application portal.

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and academic qualifications against apprenticeship entry requirements.

• Assessment Day: If successful in the initial stage, candidates will be invited to an assessment day at the Romsey offices. This will likely include practical exercises, team-based activities, and interviews.

• Technical/Situational Interviews: Assess problem-solving skills, understanding of basic technical concepts, and suitability for the production environment.

• Cultural Fit Interview: Evaluate alignment with Roke's values, collaborative approach, and mission.

• Security Clearance Checks: Initiation of background checks for BPSS and SC clearance.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• While a formal portfolio isn't mandatory for an apprentice, be prepared to discuss any relevant projects from school, personal interests, or previous work experience that demonstrate technical aptitude, problem-solving skills, or an interest in production and manufacturing.

• Highlight any instances where you followed instructions meticulously, solved a technical challenge, or worked effectively in a team.

Challenge Preparation:

• For the assessment day, expect tasks that might involve:

  • Basic assembly or construction challenges.
  • Problem-solving scenarios related to technical tasks.
  • Team exercises to assess collaboration and communication.
  • Questions about your motivation, learning style, and understanding of Roke's mission.

• Prepare to discuss why you are interested in production, prototyping, and the defence industry.

• Research Roke's work and its impact on national security.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process details are based on typical apprenticeship recruitment, with a focus on the assessment day and what to expect in terms of practical and interview components.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Manufacturing & Assembly Equipment: Various tools and machinery for building, testing, and assembling electronic and mechanical products.

• Prototyping Tools: Equipment for creating functional prototypes, potentially including 3D printers, CNC machines, or specialized fabrication tools.

• Measurement & Testing Equipment: Tools such as oscilloscopes, multimeters, signal generators, and other diagnostic equipment for product verification.

• Hand Tools & Power Tools: Standard workshop tools required for assembly and modification tasks.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary focus for an apprentice, exposure to basic reporting on build progress, test results, or quality metrics may occur.

CRM & Automation:

• Familiarity with basic data entry and system navigation will be beneficial.

• Exposure to ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) or MRP (Material Requirements Planning) systems may occur as part of supply chain and production planning.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section speculates on the likely tools and technologies an apprentice in a production and prototyping role would encounter, focusing on hands-on equipment and basic system interaction.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Mission-Driven: A strong commitment to Roke's purpose of solving meaningful problems and protecting what matters most, especially in the defence sector.

• Collaboration: Emphasis on teamwork, with engineers, scientists, analysts, and creatives working together to achieve common goals.

• Innovation: A culture that encourages pushing technical boundaries and developing solutions for tomorrow's challenges.

• Integrity & Trust: Building confidence and trust with governments and organizations worldwide.

• Quality Focus: Dedication to high standards in all aspects of production, testing, and assembly.

• Continuous Learning: Encouragement of professional and technical development, essential for an apprenticeship.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional teamwork is essential, requiring seamless interaction between production, engineering, quality, supply chain, and logistics.

• Open communication and a willingness to share knowledge and provide feedback are valued.

• A supportive environment where team members mentor and guide each other, particularly in an apprenticeship context.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section extrapolates Roke's likely team culture and values based on its industry, mission, and description, framing them through the lens of an operations apprentice.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Theory and Practice: Effectively integrating academic learning from Chichester University with hands-on production work.

• Security Clearance Requirements: Meeting the stringent residency and background requirements for BPSS, SC, and DV clearances.

• Pace of Defence Technology: Keeping up with the evolving technological landscape in defence and national security.

• Complex Projects: Working on intricate defence systems that demand precision and attention to detail.

• Cross-Functional Communication: Navigating the communication needs between different departments.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Apprenticeship Degree Program: Formal academic training leading to a Digital & Technology Solutions Degree.

• Specialized Technical Training: Hands-on experience with advanced production, prototyping, and testing equipment.

• Mentorship: Guidance and support from experienced professionals in the production and engineering fields.

• Exposure to Cutting-Edge Technology: Working with technologies relevant to defence, cyber, AI, and ML.

• Security Clearance Attainment: Gaining valuable, career-enhancing security clearances.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section identifies potential challenges specific to an apprentice in a defence operations role and outlines the significant growth and development opportunities available through Roke's program.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Prepare to discuss your motivation for becoming a Technical Apprentice in Production and Prototyping at Roke, specifically mentioning your interest in defence and technology.

• Be ready to explain how your academic qualifications (A-Levels/BTEC) and any prior experience align with the role's requirements.

• Articulate your understanding of the importance of quality, accuracy, and safety in a production environment.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Research Roke's mission, its role in national security and defence, and its technological specializations (sensors, communications, cyber, AI/ML).

• Understand Roke's values and how they translate into a collaborative and mission-driven work environment.

• Be prepared to explain why you are drawn to Roke's unique work environment (e.g., manor house site, countryside location).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• While a formal portfolio is not required, have examples ready to discuss:

  • Any projects where you built, assembled, or repaired something.
  • Instances where you followed detailed instructions or plans.
  • Situations where you identified and solved a technical problem.
  • Experiences working collaboratively on a team project.

• Clearly articulate the process you followed, the tools you used, and the outcome. Focus on your learning and problem-solving approach.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation advice is tailored for an apprentice, focusing on motivation, learning potential, and basic technical understanding rather than extensive prior experience.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Technical Apprentice position:

• Submit your application: Click "apply" and submit an up-to-date CV through the designated portal.

• Prepare your CV: Ensure your CV clearly highlights your academic achievements (especially in Mathematics), any relevant technical interests or projects, and demonstrates your enthusiasm for a career in production and defence technology. Tailor it to emphasize problem-solving and a willingness to learn.

• Research Roke: Familiarize yourself with Roke's company mission, its work in defence and national security, and its technological capabilities. Understand what makes Roke unique.

• Practice for the Assessment Day: Be ready for practical exercises, team activities, and interviews. Prepare specific examples to showcase your skills, learning aptitude, and collaborative spirit. Understand the importance of security clearances.

• Understand the Apprenticeship: Be clear about the commitment to studying at Chichester University alongside your on-the-job training.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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