Applications invited for E.ON’s first ever Sheffield-based engineering apprenticeships, supporting decarbonisation across the UK

As part of its commitment to developing the green workforce of tomorrow, E.ON is inviting applications for its national engineering apprenticeship programme. While apprentices will work across various locations in the UK, the Blackburn Meadows renewable energy plant in Sheffield will play a key role as a training hub, providing hands-on experience and support during their journey.

Developed in partnership with the University of Sheffield AMRC Training Centre, these apprenticeships aim to equip aspiring engineers with the skills they need to succeed in the green energy sector.

Apprentices will gain expertise in areas such as district heating networks, hydrogen innovation and low-carbon energy production, preparing them to tackle the challenges of decarbonisation and support the UK’s transition to a sustainable energy future.

E.ON, in partnership with the AMRC Training Centre, is offering two exciting apprenticeship options, both providing the opportunity to earn while gaining hands-on experience in the renewable energy sector:

• Level 6 – Control Systems Engineer Degree Apprenticeship: focuses on advanced automation and energy systems, including hydrogen and district heating. These roles will be based in Sheffield and Nottingham.
• Level 3 – Mechatronics Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship: offers practical training in mechanical, electrical and control systems. These roles will be based in Nottingham and London.

Jess Dhariwal, Plant Manager at Blackburn Meadows and Scheme Lead for E.ON’s Engineering and Technical Apprenticeships, said: “Sheffield is at the forefront of the UK’s engineering future, and we’re thrilled to support the launch of these exciting new engineering apprenticeships, helping to build the green workforce of tomorrow.

“At E.ON, we’ve proudly supported 1,000 apprentices over the past decade, and we continue to be recognised as one of the most inclusive and supportive apprenticeship employers in the UK.

“Our Blackburn Meadows renewable energy plant offers apprentices a unique opportunity to gain invaluable hands-on experience whilst undertaking their education at AMRC Training Centre. From ensuring the smooth operation of a plant that powers homes and businesses across South Yorkshire to contributing to key projects like the expansion of Sheffield’s district heating network and our pioneering HYDESS hydrogen initiative, this is an unparalleled start to a career in renewable energy.

“These apprenticeships are a fantastic opportunity for individuals to make a real impact in creating a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. We encourage anyone interested to explore the roles and apply today.”

Dan Swift, Business Development Executive at the AMRC Training Centre, was delighted to confirm the new collaboration, adding: “Both of the apprenticeship programmes E.ON have selected are well established with the AMRC Training Centre apprenticeship portfolio, covering a variety of employers and sectors, including aerospace, food and drink and automotive.

“We can now add the renewable energy sector to the group.”    

In addition to these opportunities, E.ON will be offering more apprenticeships in January.

How E.ON is leading the way on apprenticeships

• E.ON is committed to developing talent through apprenticeships, ranking number one apprenticeship employer within the UK energy and utilities sector, and one of the top 30 in the UK overall. This is based on reviews and feedback E.ON’s apprentices have submitted via the Rate My Apprenticeship scheme. 
• E.ON has been committed to apprenticeships for a decade, and the company is proud to have enrolled almost 1,000 new and existing colleagues onto over 90 different programmes, across a range of levels from intermediate to higher/degree level.
• E.ON provides all its apprentices with a comprehensive, structured and rewarding apprenticeship experience. Data shows that E.ON apprentices’ careers develop faster than their peers, with them being 13% more likely to be promoted, showcasing their potential for growth within the organisation.

Supporting diversity and inclusion

E.ON is one the UK’s most inclusive employers. As with all roles offered by the company, championing diversity and inclusion is core to E.ON’s apprenticeship programmes. In terms of E.ON’s current apprenticeship population:

• a quarter (25%) are from disadvantaged areas
• almost a quarter (23%) are from an ethnically diverse background
• 18% are aged 16-24
• 15% have learning needs

What’s more, almost half (45%) of individuals in STEM apprenticeships are women.

To find out more

For details and to apply, visit the E.ON Careers webpage today and register your interest.