Entry Requirements:

Individual employers will set the selection criteria for their apprenticeships.

In order to optimise success, candidates will typically havefive  GCSE’s at Grade C Grade 4/5 in the new numerical GCSE grading system) or above, including maths*, English and a science, technology or engineering-related subject, or 90+ credits in an Engineering BTEC at level 3.

*As further guidance, the level of maths has an advisory GCSE level of grade B (Grade 5/6 in the new numerical GCSE grading system)

What will I learn?

• Deliver safe, compliant production to plan, following SOPs, H&S and regulatory standards.
• Plan and schedule work; coordinate stakeholders; manage SLAs, documentation and timelines.
• Collect and analyse data to produce reports, KPIs and costings; support quotes and budgeting.
• Support NPI and engineering changes, including testing, commissioning and gate reviews.
• Improve processes using lean (5S, Kaizen, Six Sigma), time/motion, line balancing and flow.
• Solve quality/manufacturing issues with RCA, PFMEA, PPS; implement corrective/preventive actions.
• Manage internal/supplier quality notifications to closure.
• Control assets, materials, stock and document/configuration management.
• Read drawings/specs/BOMs; use CAD, analytics and databases to create/update documentation.
• Apply core engineering principles and digital/Industry 4.0 tools across methods, materials and production modes.
• Maintain quality and compliance using measurement/testing (incl. NDT/DT) and QMS standards (e.g., ISO 9001/AS9100/14001).
• Safety‑first; systematic, proactive and transparent.
• Accountable, resilient and responsible in managing risk.
• Champions new technologies and continuous professional development.
• Builds ethical, professional relationships; communicates and collaborates effectively.
• Acts with integrity, respect and inclusivity; customer‑ and quality‑focused.

What skills will I gain?

Apprentices will gain the following skills:

• Read and extract relevant engineering and manufacturing related data and information (such as workplans/project plans ,schedules, drawings, specifications, production data, quality reports, costing data, statistical information) drawing accurate conclusions and making informed decisions.
• Use project management tools, such as Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats (SWOT), stakeholder matrices, risk mapping, radar chart and summary risk profiles
• Use problem solving tools such as Root Cause Analysis (RCA) Process Failure Modes Effects Analysis (PFMEA), Fishbone, Practical Problem Solving (PPS) and Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP).
• Analyse and interpret data and information in order to generate manufacturing engineering documentation such as Parts Per Million (PPM) quality adherence, cost analysis and test data.
• Communicate using the appropriate method for the audience such as, formal and informal presentations, written reports, verbal, electronic, social media and incorporating relevant and appropriate data and/or metrics.
• Use the approved process and quality compliance procedure to create or amend engineering and/or manufacturing documentation.
• Use lean tools and techniques, such as Six Sigma, 8 Wastes, Workplace organisation such as  5S’s (sort, set in order, shine, standardise and sustain), Kaizen and Poka-Yoke (Error proofing),
• Apply documentation control processes and procedures such as format, location, access, authorisation.
• Use financial planning, recording and review processes and documentation such as departmental budgets, estimating, cost control, cost forecasting, and investment appraisal
• Use computer based software system/packages such as Computer Aided Design (CAD), Data Analytics and Databases.

How will I be assessed?

Throughout the programme the apprentice will receive expert training from highly qualified staff. A qualified assessor will provide an induction and regular workplace assessments.

What can I do next?

Apprentices who successfully complete this qualification can progress to:

• Employment in the industry in an engineering maintenance-related role
• Higher National Diploma (HND) in Engineering
• Relevant undergraduate degree