Apprentices will gain a deep understanding of precision engineering and advanced manufacturing techniques, applying industry best practices to produce high-quality components. They will develop expertise in machining processes, quality control, and engineering principles, ensuring they can manufacture complex parts with accuracy and efficiency.

Machining Technicians play a crucial role in the production of precision components used in industries such as aerospace, automotive, nuclear, and construction. They are responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining a range of machines, including CNC, milling, grinding, and lathe machines. By mastering these skills, they contribute to the seamless production of essential parts that meet strict industry standards.

Working closely with experienced engineers and industry professionals, apprentices will learn how to interpret technical drawings, apply engineering mathematics, and use measuring equipment to verify component quality. They will also gain hands-on experience in troubleshooting machining issues, optimising manufacturing processes, and adhering to strict health and safety regulations.

This apprenticeship provides a strong foundation for career progression, preparing apprentices for roles such as CNC Machinist, Precision Engineer, and Manufacturing Technician. With further training and experience, opportunities exist to advance into senior positions such as Production Engineer, Toolmaker, or Quality Control Specialist.

Key Facts

Duration

42 months plus End-Point Assessment (EPA)

Funding Band

£27,000

Delivery Location

National

Qualification

On successful completion, apprentices will achieve a Machine Technician Level 3 Apprenticeship.

Apprenticeship details

The Level 3 Machining Technician Apprenticeship is designed to develop skilled machinists within the Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering (AME) sector. This sector encompasses industries such as aerospace, automotive, maritime defence, nuclear, and construction. Machining Technicians are responsible for producing complex and precise components for machinery, including parts for aircraft, vehicles, home appliances, and medical equipment.

 

What it covers:

Knowledge:

  • Health and safety regulations pertinent to the occupation
  • Hazardous waste management and disposal procedures
  • Environmental and sustainability regulations
  • Interpretation of engineering drawings and representations
  • Engineering mathematics and scientific principles
  • Work planning and scheduling techniques
  • Properties and characteristics of engineering materials
  • Engineering standards and regulations
  • Tooling and work-holding devices
  • Machining processes and tools
  • Techniques for machining complex components
  • Quality assurance principles and practices
  • Fault-finding and diagnostic methods
  • Measurement and testing equipment
  • Effective communication techniques and terminology
  • Documentation practices
  • Housekeeping and maintenance practices
  • Organisational culture and process variations
  • Inspection processes and procedures
  • Technological advancements in the machining sector
  • Continuous improvement principles
  • Equality, diversity, and inclusion requirements
  • Stock management considerations

Skills:

  • Adherence to health, safety, environmental, and sustainability regulations
  • Machine preparation, setup, operation, and adjustment
  • Risk assessment application
  • Stock monitoring and verification
  • Accurate information recording
  • Technical information interpretation
  • Application of engineering principles
  • Work planning and organisation
  • Quality assurance procedure compliance
  • Selection of appropriate machining processes
  • Tooling and work-holding device setup
  • Machine parameter adjustment
  • Execution of machining operations to produce components
  • Component measurement and inspection
  • Identification and resolution of tool and equipment issues
  • Manufacturing process issue identification
  • Fault-finding procedure application
  • Work area and resource maintenance
  • Effective communication with colleagues
  • Machine shutdown and isolation procedure adherence
  • Continuous improvement technique application
  • Ethical principle application
  • Team collaboration to achieve goals

Behaviours:

  • Prioritisation of health and safety
  • Ethical conduct
  • Accountability for work
  • Teamwork to meet objectives
  • Commitment to ongoing professional development
  • Support for an inclusive workplace culture

 

Delivery

Our Skills Development Tutors will visit apprentices on-site, working with them to meet employer’s specific needs and expectations.

Entry requirements

  • Minimum of grades 9-4 (A*-C) in Maths and English
  • Employer commitment to support the apprenticeship through on-the-job training and mentorship

Progression

Apprentices can progress to roles such as CNC Machinist, Precision Engineer, or Manufacturing Technician. With further experience and training, they may advance to senior positions, including Production Engineer, Toolmaker, or Quality Control Specialist.

 

 

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