Nuclear welding inspection technician
Level 4 · HigherEngineering and manufacturing 4 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
Nuclear welding inspection technicians inspect, test, and certify welding and related joining processes on nuclear plant and components, ensuring they meet stringent quality and safety standards. Apprentices gain welding inspection skills under nuclear-specific codes and standards, working on power stations, submarines, or decommissioning projects. The role can progress to senior inspector, welding engineer, or quality manager positions.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Welding processes and their application in nuclear construction
Nuclear-specific codes and standards for welds (ASME III, RCC-M, BS EN)
Weld inspection methods including visual, radiographic, and ultrasonic
Non-conformance identification and disposition
Documentation, certificates of conformity, and traceability
Nuclear quality assurance and safety culture
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Inspect welds visually and using NDT methods to nuclear codes
Review welding procedure specifications and welder qualifications
Witness and record weld tests and procedure qualification trials
Raise, track, and close non-conformance reports
Verify material traceability and certification documentation
Work within nuclear quality management systems
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 4 (Higher) - roughly Foundation-degree level. Usually needs Level 3 (A-levels, a T-Level, or an Advanced apprenticeship) or relevant experience.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 5/6 apprenticeship or a more senior role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
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What it’s really like
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