Engineering Apprentice

Becton, Dickinson U.K. Limited

Devon (PL6 7BP)

Closes on Friday 20 February 2026

Posted on 18 December 2025

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Contents

Summary

Join BD Plymouth, a global leader in medical technology, as an Electrical & Mechanical (Dual Discipline) Apprentice. Gain hands-on experience, earn recognised qualifications and kick-start your career with a global leader in healthcare technology, helping deliver life-saving solutions worldwide.

Wage

£18,000 a year

Check minimum wage rates (opens in new tab)

Wage will rise to £24,000 after 12 months.

Training course
Engineering maintenance technician - dual discipline (level 3)
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.

38 hours a week

Start date

Monday 7 September 2026

Duration

3 years 6 months

Positions available

6

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

  • 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.

Where you'll work

Belliver Way, Belliver Industrial Estate
Roborough
Plymouth
Devon
PL6 7BP

Training

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

Training provider

CITY COLLEGE PLYMOUTH

Training course

Engineering maintenance technician - dual discipline (level 3)

Understanding apprenticeship levels (opens in new tab)

What you'll learn

Course contents
  • Review and use information. For example, work instructions, drawings, design specifications, and plant configurations.
  • Use planning, prioritising, organising, and time management techniques to plan tasks.
  • Identify and organise resources to complete tasks. For example, consumables.
  • Respond and adapt to work demands. For example, adapt working methods to reflect changes in working environment, re-prioritise workloads to react to breakdowns and fault scenarios.
  • Identify equipment to work on. Check plant configuration is as defined.
  • Prepare the work area for maintenance tasks.
  • Identify environmental and health and safety hazards and risks and apply control measures.
  • Apply health, safety, and environmental procedures in compliance with regulations, standards, and guidance. For example, signage and barriers, working at height, confined spaces, and COSHH.
  • Follow security procedures. For example, site access, document classification, and securing assets.
  • Follow emergency incident and response procedures.
  • Apply sustainability principles. For example, minimising waste.
  • Segregate items for reuse, recycling, and waste.
  • Use mathematical principles and formulae to support engineering maintenance.
  • Apply engineering maintenance standards and procedures.
  • Apply foreign material exclusion procedures.
  • Follow maintenance tools and equipment control procedures. For example, handling and storage.
  • Reinstate the work area.
  • Apply team working principles.
  • Communicate with others to give and receive information. For example, colleagues, customers, and stakeholders.
  • Escalate issues outside limits of responsibility.
  • Record information.
  • Produce or amend documents. For example, handover notes and reports.
  • Identify and highlight issues (red pen), with technical drawings.
  • Use digital and information technology. For example, databases, data sharing platforms, email, management information systems, and word processing. Follow cyber security and GDPR requirements.
  • Apply continuous improvement techniques to identify improvement suggestions.
  • Carry out and record planned and unplanned learning and development activities.
  • Electrical and control and instrumentation. Confirm safe electrical isolation lockout tagout method has been applied and test for dead.
  • Electrical and control and instrumentation. Select, check, and use electrical maintenance tools, measurement, and test equipment. Select, check, and use control and instrumentation maintenance tools, measurement, and test equipment.
  • Electrical and control and instrumentation. Use electrical diagnostic equipment and apply fault finding and rectification techniques. Use control and instrumentation diagnostic equipment and apply fault finding and rectification techniques.
  • Electrical and control and instrumentation. Apply problem solving and critical reasoning techniques.
  • Electrical and control and instrumentation. Inspect and test electrical aspects of plant. For example, visual checks, insulation and continuity checks, thermographic surveys, and voltage levels.
  • Electrical and control and instrumentation. Remove and replace electrical parts.
  • Electrical and control and instrumentation. Prepare and terminate electrical cables.
  • Electrical and control and instrumentation. Set up and adjust electrical aspects of plant.
  • Electrical and control and instrumentation. Clean parts. For example, removal of dust and debris.
  • Electrical and control and instrumentation. Conduct and confirm electrical and connected services isolation and deisolation.
  • Electrical and control and instrumentation. Conduct functional testing.
  • Electrical and control and instrumentation. Inspect and test control and instrumentation systems.
  • Electrical and control and instrumentation. Check calibration and make adjustments.
  • Electrical and control and instrumentation. Check loop function.
  • Electrical and control and instrumentation. Set up and adjust control and instrumentation systems.
  • Electrical and control and instrumentation. Remove and replace instruments and sensors.
  • Electrical and control and instrumentation. Re-connect instrumentation power supply, cables, pipework, and services.
  • Electrical and mechanical. Confirm safe electrical isolation lockout tagout method has been applied and test for dead.
  • Electrical and mechanical. Conduct and confirm electrical and connected services isolation and deisolation.
  • Electrical and mechanical. Select, check, and use electrical and mechanical maintenance tools, measurement, and test equipment.
  • Electrical and mechanical. Use electrical and mechanical diagnostic equipment and apply fault finding and rectification techniques.
  • Electrical and mechanical. Apply problem solving and critical reasoning techniques.
  • Electrical and mechanical. Inspect and test electrical aspects of plant. For example, visual checks, insulation and continuity checks, thermographic surveys, and voltage levels.
  • Electrical and mechanical. Remove and replace electrical parts.
  • Electrical and mechanical. Prepare and terminate electrical cables.
  • Electrical and mechanical. Set up, align, and adjust electrical aspects of plant.
  • Electrical and mechanical. Clean parts. For example, removal of dust and debris.
  • Electrical and mechanical. Conduct functional testing.
  • Electrical and mechanical. Check condition and operation of mechanical aspects of plant and equipment. For example, pumps.
  • Electrical and mechanical. Remove and replace mechanical parts.
  • Electrical and mechanical. Examine mechanical parts for defects. For example, pump seals.
  • Electrical and mechanical. Set up, align, and adjust mechanical aspects of plant.
  • Electrical and mechanical. Lubricate mechanical assemblies.
  • Electrical and mechanical. Apply bench fitting techniques.
  • Review and use information. For example, work instructions, drawings, design specifications, and plant configurations.
  • Use planning, prioritising, organising, and time management techniques to plan tasks.
  • Identify and organise resources to complete tasks. For example, consumables.
  • Respond and adapt to work demands. For example, adapt working methods to reflect changes in working environment, re-prioritise workloads to react to breakdowns and fault scenarios.
  • Identify equipment to work on. Check plant configuration is as defined.
  • Prepare the work area for maintenance tasks.
  • Identify environmental and health and safety hazards and risks and apply control measures.
  • Apply health, safety, and environmental procedures in compliance with regulations, standards, and guidance. For example, signage and barriers, working at height, confined spaces, and COSHH.
  • Follow security procedures. For example, site access, document classification, and securing assets.
  • Follow emergency incident and response procedures.
  • Apply sustainability principles. For example, minimising waste.
  • Segregate items for reuse, recycling, and waste.
  • Use mathematical principles and formulae to support engineering maintenance.
  • Apply engineering maintenance standards and procedures.
  • Apply foreign material exclusion procedures.
  • Follow maintenance tools and equipment control procedures. For example, handling and storage.
  • Reinstate the work area.
  • Apply team working principles.
  • Communicate with others to give and receive information. For example, colleagues, customers, and stakeholders.
  • Escalate issues outside limits of responsibility.
  • Record information.
  • Produce or amend documents. For example, handover notes and reports.
  • Identify and highlight issues (red pen), with technical drawings.
  • Use digital and information technology. For example, databases, data sharing platforms, email, management information systems, and word processing. Follow cyber security and GDPR requirements.
  • Apply continuous improvement techniques to identify improvement suggestions.
  • Carry out and record planned and unplanned learning and development activities.

Training schedule

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.

More training information

What’s in it for you?

  • Industry-recognised qualifications: Gain formal engineering qualifications while learning on the job.
  • Hands-on experience: Work with cutting-edge automated equipment in a world-class manufacturing environment.
  • Structured training programme: Develop technical skills across multiple disciplines with expert guidance.
  • Career progression opportunities: Build a strong foundation for future roles in engineering and manufacturing.
  • Competitive salary and benefits: Earn while you learn and enjoy access to company benefits.

 

Supportive environment: Be part of a global organisation that values growth, innovation, and work-life balance.

Requirements

Desirable qualifications

GCSE in:

  • English (grade 4/C or Above)
  • Maths (grade 4/C or Above)
  • Science (grade 4/C 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
  • 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

Other requirements

Before applying, please check the location of BD Plymouth and make sure you have suitable travel arrangements to get to and from work. Public transport options may vary, so it’s important to plan ahead and ensure you can travel reliably.

Please note: Year 3 shift pattern includes weekends as part of a 24/7 schedule.

You’ll need to make sure you can attend both the in-person assessment at City College Plymouth and the tour and interview at BD Plymouth.

Selection Process Steps

  • Online Assessment – shortlisted applicants will begin with an online assessment.
  • Friday 13 March 2026: In-Person Assessment – successful candidates will attend an assessment at City College Plymouth, Kings Road campus.
  • Saturday 21 March 2026: Factory Tour – those who pass the college assessment will be invited to BD Plymouth for a factory tour and team-based activities.
  • Final Interview – candidates progressing from the tour will attend an interview on Friday 27 March or Saturday 28 March 2026

Additional Information:  Be ready to demonstrate teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills throughout the assessment activities.

About this employer

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.

https://www.bd.com (opens in new tab)

Company benefits

Benefits include: matched pension up to 10%, private medical cover, life assurance, share save up to £150/month, wellbeing support, flexible perks like cycle-to-work, free parking, subsidised canteen, and 240 hrs annual leave.

After this apprenticeship

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.

Ask a question

The contact for this apprenticeship is:

CITY COLLEGE PLYMOUTH

The reference code for this apprenticeship is VAC2000005598.

Apply now

Closes on Friday 20 February 2026