Early careers
Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM)
Dounreay’s STEM Ambassadors volunteer their time, enthusiasm and experiences to encourage and inspire young people to achieve more and progress further in STEM. They are role models to the young people in our community, raising their aspirations and encouraging them to think about their future. They showcase different roles and career pathways into industry raising awareness of important skills in the workplace.
STEM Ambassadors are an important part of our efforts to increase the supply of people with STEM skills in the economy, attracting a diverse and skilled STEM workforce for the future.
Young Generation Network (YGN)
The YGN has been in existence for over 20 years and currently consists of approximately 1,250 members. The YGN benefits individuals and the wider industry through promoting communication, collaboration and professional development in the UK and around the world.
Apprenticeships
Engineering
Dounreay has been recruiting engineering apprentices for over 60 years and the 4-year engineering apprentice programme is approved by 2 of the largest professional engineering institutions in the UK; the Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET) and Institute of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE). By completing an approved apprenticeship scheme a graduating apprentice is entitled to apply for engineering technician status with the Engineering Council, a fundamental steppingstone to becoming an engineer.
Business and Administration
Built Environment: Quantity Surveying/Estimating
The apprenticeship is a comprehensive training programme lasting 2 years. During this period, you will undertake training and work experience at Dounreay within project teams, assisting with some of our new build projects on contracting and estimating works and project management support. You will also attend Inverness Highland College UHI on block release to gain additional skills and qualifications.
Carpentry and Joinery
The apprenticeship is s comprehensive training programme lasting up to 4 years. During this period you will undertake training and work experience at Dounreay with our Estate Services team and attend North Highland College UHI on block release to gain additional skills and qualifications. the programme requires you to complete SVQ3 (SCQF Level 6) Carpentry and Joinery and a Professional Development Award at Level 5.
Trainee Health Physics Surveyors
Health physics surveyor trainees support the ongoing decommissioning programme. The training programme lasts for 2 years and will include an NVQ in Radiological Protection. Throughout the training progress is monitored and assessed against Dounreay standards..
Work experience
Every year pupils from local secondary schools get the opportunity to come to Dounreay for a week to spend some time learning about careers they are interested in and getting some hands-on experience. This year the work experience is being carried out virtually, with our graduates creating projects and tasks for them to carry out.
Summer placements
Graduate development programme


Dounreay apprentices talk about their experiences

