Automation Engineering Apprentice

AMAZON UK SERVICES LTD.

Dartford (DA1 5XU)

Closes on Saturday 28 February 2026

Posted on 7 November 2025


Summary

Ever wondered what it's like to orchestrate a symphony of robots? Imagine being at the controls of one of the world's most sophisticated automated networks, where thousands of robots dance in perfect harmony, artificial intelligence makes split-second decisions, and breakthrough technology comes to life.

Wage

Competitive

Competitive wage offered

Check minimum wage rates (opens in new tab)

Training course
Control systems engineer (degree) (level 6)
Hours
In year 1 you will work Monday - Friday from 8am to 5pm, in years 2-4 you will likely be working a Monday to Friday day shift pattern however there may be the requirement to work some night and weekend shifts. Shifts TBC.

40 hours a week

Start date

Monday 7 September 2026

Duration

4 years

Positions available

1

Work

Most of your apprenticeship is spent working. You’ll learn on the job by getting hands-on experience.

What you'll do at work

As an Automation Apprentice within our Reliability Maintenance Engineering (RME) team, you'll be hands-on with technology that most people only read about. You'll work alongside industry experts who are pushing the boundaries of what's possible in automation. This isn't just maintenance - it's about being part of a team that innovates, improves, and reimagines automation technology every single day. 

What Makes This Opportunity Unique?

  • Work with Amazon exclusive technology you won't find anywhere else
  • Experience automation at a scale that's transforming global logistics
  • Be part of teams developing and implementing next-generation robotics
  • Learn from engineers who are industry pioneers
  • See your ideas come to life in real-world applications
  • Shape the future of automation technology

Key job responsibilities:

  • 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 with:

  • Advanced robotics systems and controls
  • Industrial automation programming
  • Smart sensor technology and IoT integration
  • Predictive maintenance systems
  • Data analytics and performance optimisation
  • Safety systems for human-robot collaboration
  • Industry 4.0 technologies
  • Machine learning applications in automation

Where you'll work

Unit 1
Powerhouse Drive
Dartford
DA1 5XU

Training

Apprenticeships include time away from working for specialist training. You’ll study to gain professional knowledge and skills.

Training provider

SIEMENS PUBLIC LIMITED COMPANY

Training course

Control systems engineer (degree) (level 6)

Understanding apprenticeship levels (opens in new tab)

What you'll learn

Course contents
  • Translate conceptual designs or technical specifications into operational process control systems.
  • Select, use and apply approved problem-solving methods to solve complex problems and determine appropriate solutions such as Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve, and Control (DMAIC), Failure Mode Effects Analysis (FMEA), Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) and fishbone diagrams.
  • Select the best method for collating and conveying complex information using a range of data sources and supporting documentation.
  • Interpret and produce technical documentation such as schematic diagrams, project plans, fault reports or data analytics using company documentation systems and guidelines.
  • Observe, record and draw accurate and auditable conclusions from data and or developmental or test evidence.
  • Manage assigned projects or programmes of work, taking into account factors such as safety, quality, cost and performance criteria. Apply techniques and processes for project or programme management including escalation, audit or risk management and risk mitigation.
  • Comply with statutory and organisational safety standards and requirements including supporting safety risk assessments and mitigating any risks identified within the control systems environment.
  • Identify resources required to complete control system projects, project tasks or programmes of work, with consideration to factors such as cost, quality, safety, security, environmental impact as applicable to the activity.
  • Create a project or work programme plan and develop activities in a logical process embedding mechanisms for adapting to changing circumstances or requirements.
  • Demonstrate leadership when undertaking control system engineering activities such as system design, integration, operational simulation, installation, testing, pre commissioning, commissioning and maintenance of control systems.
  • Ensure that all instrumentation has been correctly configured and calibrated before use.
  • Identify areas for improvement and lead continuous improvement activities such as improving safety, quality, technology solutions, operational processes, training and development, equipment performance or cost key performance indicators (KPIs).
  • Perform checks on control systems documentation to ensure it meets organisational compliance and traceability requirements. Report any non-conformances using the appropriate processes and procedures.
  • Interpret key performance indicators and utilise improvement techniques or processes to improve efficiency and effectiveness such as lean or six sigma.
  • Translate conceptual designs or technical specifications into operational process control systems.
  • Select, use and apply approved problem-solving methods to solve complex problems and determine appropriate solutions such as Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve, and Control (DMAIC), Failure Mode Effects Analysis (FMEA), Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) and fishbone diagrams.
  • Select the best method for collating and conveying complex information using a range of data sources and supporting documentation.
  • Interpret and produce technical documentation such as schematic diagrams, project plans, fault reports or data analytics using company documentation systems and guidelines.
  • Observe, record and draw accurate and auditable conclusions from data and or developmental or test evidence.
  • Manage assigned projects or programmes of work, taking into account factors such as safety, quality, cost and performance criteria. Apply techniques and processes for project or programme management including escalation, audit or risk management and risk mitigation.
  • Comply with statutory and organisational safety standards and requirements including supporting safety risk assessments and mitigating any risks identified within the control systems environment.
  • Identify resources required to complete control system projects, project tasks or programmes of work, with consideration to factors such as cost, quality, safety, security, environmental impact as applicable to the activity.
  • Create a project or work programme plan and develop activities in a logical process embedding mechanisms for adapting to changing circumstances or requirements.
  • Demonstrate leadership when undertaking control system engineering activities such as system design, integration, operational simulation, installation, testing, pre commissioning, commissioning and maintenance of control systems.
  • Ensure that all instrumentation has been correctly configured and calibrated before use.
  • Identify areas for improvement and lead continuous improvement activities such as improving safety, quality, technology solutions, operational processes, training and development, equipment performance or cost key performance indicators (KPIs).
  • Perform checks on control systems documentation to ensure it meets organisational compliance and traceability requirements. Report any non-conformances using the appropriate processes and procedures.
  • Interpret key performance indicators and utilise improvement techniques or processes to improve efficiency and effectiveness such as lean or six sigma.

Training schedule

Within this 48 month programme, you will 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 of a commutable distance, accommodation will be provided during term time for these first 12 months, and travel expenses will be supported. In later years you will have on-the-job training working towards a BSc in Controls and Automation Engineering and an HNC/D in Electrical/Controls Engineering. You'll support our 24/7 operation in shift covering days, nights and weekends in patterns that reflect the real-world schedules of 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 on 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.

Requirements

Essential qualifications

GCSE in:

5 GCSEs including Maths and English (grade 4-9 (A-C) or above)

A Level in:

3 A levels or equivalent in STEM subject (grade C/4 or above)

Share if you have other relevant qualifications and industry experience. The apprenticeship can be adjusted to reflect what you already know.

Skills

  • Communication skills
  • Problem solving skills
  • Number skills
  • Analytical skills
  • Logical
  • Team working

Other requirements

Applicants must be able to commit to spending the first academic year at a full-time residential training centre based either at one of our external training provider facilities or at our own world-class Amazon training centres. If you live outside of a commutable distance from the training centre, accommodation will be provided during term time for these first 12 months, and travel expenses will be supported.

About this employer

Amazon offers a range of opportunities to suit candidates with different backgrounds, qualifications and career aspirations. That is why we believe it is the perfect place to learn new skills. We believe that building a culture that is welcoming and inclusive is integral to people doing their best work and is essential to what we can achieve as a company. We take steps to ensure our colleagues have a sense of belonging, value, and opportunity.

http://www.amazonapprenticeships.co.uk (opens in new tab)

After this apprenticeship

Not only will you receive invaluable learning, development and professional experience, but you will also gain a number of externally recognised qualifications and your bachelor’s degree.

On completion successful completion of the apprenticeship you will be eligible to apply for Automation Engineering roles within the RME team.

Ask a question

The contact for this apprenticeship is:

SIEMENS PUBLIC LIMITED COMPANY

The reference code for this apprenticeship is VAC1000350365.

Apply now

Closes on Saturday 28 February 2026

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