Become an apprentice at Dstl

Start or switch careers by joining Dstl as an apprentice for your chance to make real contributions to critical projects.

What we look for

We look for a genuine interest in the area of study as well as a positive attitude. As an apprentice, we’re not expecting you to have high level technical skills yet, but as we’re potentially investing in you and your training, we want to see a genuine interest and motivation in your application.

Due to the nature of our work, all applicants must be aged 18 and over when starting the course.

What you get

You get the foundations of a career, variety and genuine pride in what you do. Check out what our current or recent employees have to say about being an apprentice at Dstl.

Apprenticeships at Dstl: Charlotte’s Story

Type of apprenticeships we offer

Apprenticeship cohorts include:

• Ordinance, Munitions & Explosives (OME)
• Software Engineering
• Laboratory Technician
• Business Administration

We offer apprenticeships from levels 3 to 7 (A-Level to Masters) and we can also help you develop through stages too. Many of our apprenticeships opt to do a second, higher level one after completing the first.

At the end of your apprenticeship, you could receive a HNC or even a degree.

When apprenticeships start

All of our opportunities are advertised on Civil Service jobs between December and March. Our apprenticeships usually start in September or October (at the beginning of the academic year) but sometimes in January.

Where you will work

The majority of apprenticeships are based at Porton Down near Salisbury, or Portsdown West near Fareham.

At least 75% of your time will be on site or in a classroom to enjoy our facilities and the support of your peers.

During your apprenticeship, you will learn from a blend of formal classroom-based study and hands-on training in our workshops, laboratories and offices, as well as mentoring from our technical experts.

Apprenticeships at Dstl: Stacie’s Story

Be yourself

Entering the workplace as an apprentice may feel daunting, but we want to ease this transition for you. You will be supported at work through our employee networks, your line managers and peers.

You will be encouraged to be yourself at work and be part of our emerging talent community.

How much you will earn

Your starting salary will depend on the apprenticeship level and will be in the job advert. Apprentices receive annual pay increases and enjoy our full range of benefits.

At the end of the apprenticeship, many people accept permanent roles at Dstl, with the option to progress further with additional training and development.