Jobs and skills
What jobs are available and how do I apply?
Whether you’re looking for your first job, changing careers, or planning for your future, this defence investment creates opportunities for people like you.
Working in the defence industry can mean high-skilled, high-paid jobs in software, intellectual property, and equipment as well as jobs in the military.
Defence investment creates opportunities across a huge range of specialisms:
AI and autonomous systems
Roles in robotics, hardware testing, software engineering and coding
Cybersecurity and quantum technology
Jobs in data science, risk management and threat analysis
Advanced manufacturing and shipbuilding
Work as a mechanic, technician or production supervisor
Combat air and missile systems
Roles like flight instructors, supply chain specialists and simulation technicians
Nuclear submarines and space technology
Jobs for welders, pipefitters and physicists
Building Britain's future, one apprentice at a time
The Defence Technical Excellence Colleges represent more than skills training – they’re Britain’s investment in home-grown talent, security, and economic prosperity. As defence spending rises to 2.6% of GDP, we’re ensuring British talent drives British innovation through apprenticeships and other pathways.
Establishing five Defence Technical Excellence Colleges
Applications will go live by the end of 2025, with successful TECs to be launched in 2026, which will offer support for foundation apprenticeships, skills bootcamps and industry placements for school leavers.
STEM programmes, short courses, and Skills Passport
Enabling smoother transfer of mid-career professionals between the Armed Forces, the defence industry and those looking to re-enter from neighbouring industries to retain our professionals and keep British skills in Britain
Targeted short courses
For people working in specific defence industries looking to progress their careers by boosting their skills.
Launching a new Destination Defence campaign
These colleges will break down barriers to opportunity, working with the defence industry to promote the breadth of exciting apprenticeship opportunities available across the sector, as well as the pathways for people to earn while they learn and keep our nation safe.
With apprenticeships spanning from Level 2 technical skills to advanced Level 6 degree apprenticeships, every apprentice – whether they’re training as submarine engineers in Scotland, cyber warfare specialists, or advanced manufacturing technicians – earns a wage while gaining nationally recognised qualifications.