Are you interested in engineering and want to work hands-on with the systems that power the cloud?

Are you curious about how the cloud really works?

Every time someone streams a film, shops online, or uses an app, vast networks of computers and specialised machines work quietly behind the scenes to make it happen. Those machines live inside data centres - and keeping them running is the heart of what our engineering teams do.

As a Data Centre Engineering Operations (DCEO) Apprentice, you’ll step into this world and learn how to operate and maintain the electrical and mechanical systems that keep Amazon Web Services (AWS) online. You won’t be watching from the side lines - you’ll be right there on the data centre floor, building the skills that keep the modern world connected.

About the role

From day one, you’ll be part of the team responsible for keeping our critical infrastructure running. That includes everything from power distribution and cooling systems to emergency backup equipment.

You’ll learn how a data centre really works - how power flows through the building, how equipment stays cool, how faults are prevented, and how engineers keep everything safe, stable, and ready for millions of customers who rely on AWS every second.

Guided by experienced engineers, you’ll gain hands-on experience with:

• Electrical systems that keep servers running 24/7
• Generators and UPS units that protect against power loss
• Cooling systems that maintain precise environmental conditions
• Building Management Systems that monitor performance across the site

• Safety procedures that ensure every action protects people and equipment

No two days are the same. One day you might be shadowing a senior engineer during a scheduled test on a generator. The next, you could be reviewing system readings to spot trends, supporting planned maintenance, or learning how cooling systems interact with power demand.

What You’ll Do

During your apprenticeship, you’ll gradually build capability across key areas of engineering operations. You’ll learn how to:

• Support the daily running of electrical and mechanical equipment
• Carry out essential checks that keep systems safe and reliable
• Monitor performance data and spot anything unusual
• Assist with planned maintenance on critical infrastructure
• Use Building Management Systems to oversee equipment health
• Help test power and cooling systems to ensure they’re ready when needed
• Follow engineering procedures that ensure safe, high-quality work
• Troubleshoot faults under the guidance of qualified engineers
• Keep accurate maintenance records and reports

• Understand how different engineering systems work together to support AWS

Every skill you build will be tied to real equipment, real systems, and real impact.

Eligibility requirements

To be eligible for this apprenticeship, you must:

• Be 18 years or older before the start date (September 2026)
• Have the right to live and work in England for the duration of the programme
• Have lived in the UK or EEA for the last 3 years
• Hold 5 GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above, including Maths and English
• Have one of the following:
  
  • An A Level in a STEM subject (grade C or above, including Maths)
  • A BTEC Diploma in a STEM field
  • A Level 3 IT apprenticeship plus Level 3 Maths
• Be willing to travel to Chester twice per month for required training

• Not already hold a qualification in a similar subject at the same or higher level

Programme Details

Who We’re Looking For

You’ll enjoy this apprenticeship if you are:

• Curious about how engineering systems work
• Motivated to learn practical, hands-on skills
• Comfortable working methodically and following procedures
• Someone who enjoys solving technical challenges
• Calm under pressure and focused on safety
• A good communicator and reliable team member
• Eager to learn and ready to take on new experiences

You don’t need previous engineering experience - just a genuine interest in how things work and the drive to develop your skills.

Career Progression

When you complete the programme, you’ll be ready to take on roles such as Data Centre Engineering Technician. With time and experience, many apprentices progress into specialist, senior, or leadership roles within AWS Data Centres - supporting essential cloud infrastructure used by millions of customers around the world.