If you’d like to be considered for this opportunity we encourage you to apply promptly to avoid disappointment as if applications are high the role will close before the closing date given.
Role title: Machine Tool Engineers
Closing date: 4th August 2026 (We would encourage you to apply as soon as possible, as roles will be filled on an on-going basis)
Location: RG7 4PR, located between Reading and Basingstoke, with free onsite parking.
Package: £44,000 - £55,000 (depending on your suitability, qualifications & level of experience)
Working pattern: AWE operates a 9-day working fortnight. We will consider flexible working requests so that your work may fit in with your lifestyle. Just let us know your preferred working pattern on your application.
Ready to play your part?
At AWE, it’s not just a job, it’s far more than that. Our shared purpose is to help keep the nation safe. Could this role be the opportunity for you to play your part?
Shape the Future of Precision Engineering at AWE
Are you a skilled Machine Tool Engineer looking to take your career to the next level? Join AWE’s Machine Tool Engineering (MTE) team, where you’ll work on cutting-edge, bespoke engineering projects across a range of highly specialised facilities.
These are unique opportunities to be involved in the full lifecycle of machine tools—from installation and commissioning to maintenance, optimisation, and advanced fault-finding while developing your expertise in machine tool design and innovation.
What You’ll Be Doing:
As a Machine Tool Engineer, you will play a vital role in ensuring the reliability and performance of critical plant and equipment.
Key responsibilities include:
-
Delivering high-quality maintenance and servicing activities on complex machinery
-
Diagnosing, designing and resolving faults across electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems
-
Supporting machine tool installations, disassembly/assembly, and precision alignment
-
Fulfilling the role of Subject Matter Expert (SME) in support of Capital and Facility-led projects
-
Contributing to technical data analysis, reporting, and continuous improvement
-
Implementing modifications in line with project and engineering requirements
-
Ensuring all work meets strict safety, quality, and regulatory standards
-
Mentoring and developing apprentices and junior team members
-
Collaborating with capital projects, applying the Machinery Directive and associated standards
Who are we looking for?
We’re seeking technically capable and proactive engineers with a passion for precision engineering and problem-solving.
Essential Skills & Experience:
-
Proven expertise in machine tool maintenance, servicing, and modification
-
Strong fault-finding capability across multi-disciplinary systems
-
Experience with machine tool controls (predominantly Siemens), servo systems, and diagnostics
-
Knowledge of PLC programming and integrated machine tool technologies
-
Experience in installation and alignment of complex mechanical assemblies
-
Strong technical writing skills, with the ability to produce clear, accurate and concise engineering documentation. Strong communication skills with the ability to mentor others
We do need you to have the following:
- ONC/HNC (or equivalent) in a relevant engineering discipline
-
Completed Engineering Apprenticeship (or equivalent experience)
-
Demonstrable knowledge of machine functionality and safety standards
-
Willingness to undertake AWE-specific training and security clearance requirements
Work hard, be rewarded:
We ask a lot and set the bar high because our work truly matters. In return we offer balance, with award winning benefits including:
-
9-day working fortnight – meaning you get every other Friday off work, in addition to 270 hours of annual leave.
-
Market leading contributory pension scheme (we will pay between 9% and 13% of your pensionable pay depending on your contributions)
-
Family friendly policies: Maternity Leave - 39 Weeks Full Pay and Paternity Leave - 4 Weeks Full Pay
-
Opportunities for Professional Career Development including funding for annual membership of a relevant professional body
-
Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services
-
Life Assurance (4 x annual salary)
-
Discounts – access to savings on a wide range of everyday spending
-
Special Leave Policy including paid time off for volunteering, public service (including reserve forces) and caring
The 'Working at AWE' page on our website is where you can find full details in the 'AWE Benefits Guide'.
You must be willing and able to obtain and maintain the security clearance required for the role and be willing and able to travel within the UK and overseas if required
Due to the classified nature of the work involved, there are limited opportunities to work from home in this role. It is anticipated that the successful candidate will spend the majority of their time working on site at AWE.
#LI-GD
Next steps:
Everyone who works at AWE brings unique skills and perspectives to the table. We recognise that great people don’t always ‘tick every box’. That’s why we focus on your potential, your fit with our values, your transferable skills as well as your experience. Even if you don’t meet every point above, but you feel that this role and AWE are a great fit for you, please go ahead and apply, we’d love to receive your application.
Important things you need to know:
-
We encourage you to apply promptly to avoid disappointment if applications are high and the role therefore closes.
-
You will need to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role. This will be funded by AWE. The nature of our work does mean you need to be a British Citizen who has been resident in the UK for the past 5 years in order to apply for SC clearance and 10 years for DV.
-
We want you to feel comfortable and able to shine during our recruitment process. Please let us know on your application form if you need any adjustments/accommodations during the process.
- Our interviews typically take place over Teams and for most roles are a 1 stage process.
Our ambition is to create workplaces where we recognise and celebrate differences, encourage diverse contributions and our employees feel able to be themselves at work. We strive to create a genuine culture of openness and inclusion and encourage diverse applicants. Any inclusion information you provide will be stored in accordance with GDPR and kept separate from your application form and CV, and the information will not be shared with anyone involved in interviewing or making hiring decisions.
Please note that you must be a British Citizen to apply for a role with us.
