DALES Marine Services has marked Scottish Apprenticeship Week by launching its 2026 apprenticeship recruitment programme.
The specialist in dry dock and ship repair, fabrication and conversion is looking for up to 12 apprentices to join its teams in facilities across Scotland, including docks in Aberdeen, Leith, and Greenock.
The apprenticeship programme has been running for more than 20 years, equipping young people with the skills and experience needed to thrive in the maritime engineering industry.
Dales Marine is inviting applications for two paid apprenticeship programmes focused on steelwork and fabrication and mechanical engineering.
Apprentices for the 2026 intake will split their time between on-site working and college learning, allowing them to gain practical experience while working towards achieving a recognised qualification. They will complete their training over a period of four years, supported by a mentor from the Dales Marine team.
Kevin Paterson, CEO at Dales Marine Services, said, “We are deeply committed to investing in the future of the ship fabrication, repair and maintenance industry. Our apprenticeship programme, which has been a great success for more than two decades, provides young talent with hands-on experience, expert mentorship and career pathways, and we are excited to meet this year’s intake of apprentices.
“Promoting our apprenticeship drive during Scottish Apprenticeship Week is an important opportunity to showcase the real-world benefits of apprenticeships, raise awareness of the high-quality training we offer and demonstrate our long-term dedication to developing skilled engineers, welders and more who can support Scotland’s offshore and energy sectors for many years to come.”
If selected, recruits will be invited to attend an assessment centre, expected to take place in April or May, in advance of the college term starting in August. Applicants must be over 16 and have achieved a minimum of a National 5 qualification (SCQF Level 5) in maths.
In recognition of its commitment to supporting future talent, Dales Marine was recently nominated for the Developing the Young Workforce Award at the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce Business Awards.
Kevin added, “Creating and supporting that pipeline of talented young people entering the maritime engineering industry is an important responsibility for us as a business. We are passionate about helping young people understand the breadth of opportunities available within the sector and demonstrating that apprenticeships can provide a rewarding and long-term career path.”
To find out more, visit: https://www.dalesmarine.co.uk/apprenticeships
