Level 6 Non-Destructive Testing Engineer

Why Choose an NDT Engineer Apprenticeship?

Are you passionate about technology and engineering? The Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Engineer Apprenticeship is your gateway to a rewarding career where you get to inspect and test materials without causing damage. It’s an exciting field that’s crucial to industries like aerospace, automotive, and energy.  


What You’ll Learn

This apprenticeship combines hands-on experience with academic learning, ensuring you gain the skills and knowledge needed to excel in NDT. Here’s what you can expect:

On-the-Job Training:

Work alongside experienced engineers and get practical experience in real-world settings.

Formal Education:

Participate in classroom-based learning and online courses covering the latest NDT technologies and techniques.

Project Work:

Tackle real-world problems by working on projects that require innovative NDT solutions. Present your findings and demonstrate your problem-solving skills.



Assessment Plan

The assessment plan ensures you’re on the right track throughout your apprenticeship. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Continuous Assessment:

Regular reviews and assessments to track your progress and ensure you’re meeting learning objectives.

2. Project Presentation:

Develop and present a project that showcases your ability to apply NDT methods to solve practical problems.

3. Professional Discussion:

An interview with industry experts to discuss your knowledge, skills, and behaviours.


Close-up view of interlocking gears in an industrial machine.

Getting Started

To get started, you’ll need to: Be passionate about engineering and technology. Have a keen eye for detail and problem-solving skills. Be ready to commit to both practical and academic learning.

Individual employers will set their own selection criteria for the NDT Engineer apprentices. Typically, candidates will either have achieved grades A-C in three A-levels, including maths and a science or engineering subject, or hold a minimum of three NDT Level 2 methods, including at least one complex method, defined as ultrasonic, radiography, eddy current, shearography, vibration analysis, acoustic emission, oil analysis or thermography, or will hold advanced NDT qualifications, such as NDT Level 3 certification. Other relevant qualifications may be considered as an alternative.


The Benefits

Earn While You Learn:

Get paid as you gain valuable work experience and education

Industry Recognition:

Choosing an NDT Engineer Apprenticeship offers numerous benefits:

Completing the apprenticeship can lead to recognition as an Incorporated Engineer (IEng), boosting your career prospects. Open doors to various sectors, including aerospace, automotive, energy, and more.


Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re excited about the prospect of a dynamic and challenging career in engineering, the NDT Engineer Apprenticeship is the perfect choice.

Level 3 Water Industry Network Technician

Grey faucet dripping water

Don’t want to sit behind a desk for work? Would you rather be out working in a variety of different locations gaining hands on experience in an engineering field? Well, this may be an apprenticeship for you. This level 3 water industry network technician will not only allow you to do the above but open the door to many possible career paths.

What is a water industry network technician?

A water industry network technician is someone who works within the water industry. They mainly work outdoors in all weather conditions on water or wastewater networks however, they may also need to go into customer premises or spend time in the office.

They may also have to drive between sites or locations so a driving licence will usually be required.

What does a water industry network technician do?

They are responsible for meeting quality, industry regulations, safety, security, and environmental requirements as well as the health and safety of others.

The main purpose of this occupation is to ensure the continuity and efficiency of water or wastewater industry network services. As this is the case there are 24-hour, seven days a week operations, which may require them to take standby duties and work shifts outside normal working hours.

As a water industry network technician, you will work with operatives and other technicians either as part of a team or by yourself. You would also engage with customers and members of the public and sometimes internal and external stakeholders.

Water technician walking around a site located by water

Potential roles within this apprenticeship

This is a core and option apprenticeship. This means that apprentices will be trained and assessed against the core and one of the below options:

Water distribution network technician:

Water distribution network technicians carry out planned and unplanned valving operations. They will visit customers to resolve water quality enquiries. This could include taking water samples and giving advice on water quality. Also, they will need to undertake and provide advice on water fittings and will need to consider the Water Supply (Water Quality) Regulations.

Water leakage technician:

Water leakage technicians use systems to identify potential and actual leaks and undertake or identify actions required to reduce the leakage. They will also assist in the repairs and maintenance of meters and loggers, whilst providing advice to customers on pipework ownership and responsibility relating to leakage.

A water distribution network technician and a water leakage technician must have a National Water Hygiene (Blue) card. This involves training, assessment, and a health screening.

Wastewater network technician:

Wastewater technicians respond to incidents and monitor the wastewater network resolving issues or identifying actions that are required. They carry out or supervise system maintenance activities such as high-pressure water jetting and de-silting operations. They will also undertake surveys such as CCTV camera work or use Sonde tracing equipment to assist with fault diagnosis.

Wastewater technicians must take account of the Environmental Quality Standards relating to planned and unplanned discharges.

What might some of your day-to-day tasks involve?

Each of the above 3 options breaks down into their own responsibilities and roles however some of the common roles that you will undertake across all three are:

  • Conduct customer visits and liaise with customers.
  • Investigate network complaints.
  • Complete surveys of street works and traffic management requirements then make necessary arrangements.
  • Contribute to network continuous improvement and optimisation projects.
  • Maintain network digital data and documentation.
  • Ensure the maintenance of technician’s tools and equipment.

Entry requirements and possible jobs for a level 3 water industry network technician

The entry requirements for this apprenticeship are typically, 3 to 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or higher including English and mathematics, or equivalent qualifications.

After the completion of the learning stage in the apprenticeship, you will go through a process called EPA Gateway. This is when the End-point assessment organisation (EPAO) will check to confirm that all requirements have been achieved. If they have you will then be able to start the end point assessment (EPA).

The EPA requirements are:

  • Achieved English and mathematics qualifications in line with the above.
  • A submitted portfolio containing evidence of the work undertaken by the apprentice which will then be referred to in the interview.

The EPA consist of the following:

  • Being observed by an independent assessor for at least 6 hours whilst you complete your work. They will ask at least 5 questions during this time.
  • An interview up to 90 minuets long where you will be asked 10 questions. These questions will be around certain aspects of your work and will also be on the portfolio which would have been submitted at gateway.
  • Finally, you will complete a multiple-choice test that consists of 50 questions where there will be 90 minutes to complete it.

For some advice and tips on your EPA interview click here.

After you have finished your EPA you will then be given a grade and if you passed you will be qualified. After the apprenticeship has been completed you can then look to get a full time role in the water industry.

Some job roles are:

  • Water distribution network technician
  • Water field technician
  • Water recycling technician
  • Sewerage technician
  • Wastewater network technician

Conclusion

This Level 3 water industry network technician role is a great entry point for anyone looking to get into an engineering career within the water industry. You will gain valuable on the job experience whilst working towards completing your qualification with a bonus of earning while you learn.

There are multiple options that become available to you after this apprenticeship, these could be from the list of job opportunities that are available or even looking at completing a higher-level course to further your knowledge.

If you would like to find out any more information on engineering apprenticeships or apprenticeships in general then check out the other posts on ApprenticeTips.com here or if you would like to apply for any apprenticeships or see what other level 3 engineering apprenticeships are out there then check the government apprenticeship website here.

Civil Engineering Senior Technician – Level 4 Apprenticeship

Civil Engineers surveying site

If you’re passionate about creating the world around us and shaping the future, the Civil Engineering Senior Technician Level 4 Apprenticeship could be for you. It is a great option for those looking to do their part in a dynamic world.

The World of Civil Engineering

The Apprenticeship gives the opportunity to manage and offer expertise in the planning and construction of a range of structures. In particular buildings, bridges, transportation systems and more.

During the course, you will acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to face many civil engineering challenges. In other words, you will design solutions for real-world problems in the field.

Practical Work

Other than the theory, the practical is just as important. You’ll learn how to manage and improve civil engineering problems while following industry standards and laws. In addition, technology is a big part of this job too. You’ll use software such as Computer-Aided Design (CAD), which is modelling software that helps design processes. This is specifically used by different types of engineers and designers to create 2D or 3D drawings and models.

In addition to their professional collaborations, civil engineer technicians also engage with clients, suppliers, manufacturers, stakeholders, and regulatory bodies. As a result, this interaction improves their work environment and gives learning opportunities to ensure their engagement in their field.

Teamwork is also essential, civil engineers work with a wide range of people in their day to day. Such as site managers, engineers from different fields, project managers, and more. Their goal is to develop solutions that prioritise safety, security and sustainability.

The Work Environment

The Civil Engineering Senior Technician Level 4 Apprenticeship offers a flexible work environment. You time might be spent in the office, at construction sites, working remotely, or a combination of these. You may also have the opportunity to visit customers, suppliers, or manufacturers too.

Key Responsibilities of a Civil Engineer

Being a civil engineer is a big responsibility. Your job is to create effective solutions with accuracy and high quality. You are in charge of managing tasks to make sure they meet standards, stay on track, and follow industry rules. But above all, in this profession, keeping everyone safe, including yourself and your team, is the most important thing.

Cloud displaying skills Civil engineering technician
The Crucial skills needed for a Civil engineering technician

What do I need to apply?

  • Maths and English GSCE at Grade C/Grade 4 or above    
  • Good IT skills
  • Strong communication skills
  • The ability to work under pressure
  • The ability to work within a team and build effective working relationships both internally and externally
  • Methodical and organised with great attention to detail
  • Self–disciplined, with good time management skills
  • Ability to multi-task and work efficiently

What will I receive?

  • Level 4 Civil Engineering Senior Technician Apprenticeship
  • BTEC Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Construction and the Built Environment
  • Functional Skills English and maths (if required)

For more information on the apprentice, find out more here

EPA gateway

The EPA gateway is when the EPAO checks and confirms that you have met any requirements required before you start the EPA. You will only enter the gateway when your employer says you are ready.

The gateway requirements for your EPA are:

  • achieved English and mathematics qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules
  • for the professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence, you must submit a portfolio of evidence
  • passed any other qualifications listed in the occupational standard

If you would like to some tips on the EPA process, sign up to the Apprentice Tips ebook: https://www.apprenticetips.com/download-epa-interview-tips-ebook/

The Civil Engineering Pathway

To conclude, The Civil Engineering Senior Technician Level 4 Apprenticeship is a path to an exciting career. You will also contribute to constructing sustainable environments, creating safer cities, and leaving a lasting positive impact on our society!

Level 4 Small Vessel Chief Engineer Apprenticeship

a large tanker boat at sea

Are you looking for an engineering career that combines technical expertise, hands-on experience and the thrill of the open seas? The Small Vessel Chief Engineer Apprenticeship might be right for you. Read on to find out more about this thrilling voyage of discovery and prepare to embark on a career that will take you to new horizons.

What does a Small Vessel Chief Engineer do?

A Small Vessel Chief Engineer is responsible for leading the day-to-day operation of the engineering functions of a small vessel both at sea and not at sea. They must prepare and check engineering systems, order stock and supplies and ready the vessel and systems for going to sea. When at sea, the engineer must monitor the engineering systems of the vessel and adjust certain parameters in order to maximise performance. They must also accurately diagnose faults and are responsible for conducting basic repairs and replacement of parts. The engineer must ensure that the vessel’s engine and other machinery is fully functional and maintained throughout the duration of the voyage. 

Once the vessel has returned from sea, the engineer must shut down the vessel and maintain operational availability. This means conducting checks to ensure that each part of the engine and other machinery is in good condition and working. They must also liaise with repair contractors, keep records and reporting as well as prepare for statutory surveys and dry dock. The role of a small vessel chief engineer is continuous.

It is also important to note that the engineer is a first responder to safety-related alarms and defects. This includes both when on duty and on emergency alarm call out. A Small Vessel Chief Engineer is required to act during emergencies.

What type of vessel can be worked on?

There are different types of vessels that the Small Vessel Chief Engineer may work on. As defined by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, the eight categories of small vessels are:

  • Fishing vessels
  • Yachts
  • Tugs
  • Workboats
  • Standby vessels
  • Seismic survey vessels
  • Oceanographic research vessels
  • Government patrol vessels

Who does a Small Vessel Chief Engineer work with?

The small vessel chief engineer will report directly to the vessel’s Master, who has overall responsibility for the vessel. As well as the Master, the engineer will work with other officers and crew responsible for the navigation of the vessel. Depending on the size and nature of the vessel, they may work on their own or with a small team of engineers.

How much time does a Chief Engineer spend at sea?

It varies between different types of vessels and companies but typically a chief engineer will work for several weeks at a time on board, followed by a similar length of time on leave.

a boat at sea during golden sunset

Where can I find out more information?

You can visit the Government website here to find out more about the Small Vessel Chief Engineer Apprenticeship Level 4.

For a list of other Engineering Apprenticeships, visit our page here.

Find Your Apprenticeship: Nuclear Reactor Desk Engineer – Operating the Heart of Power

Reference: ST0784 | Route: Engineering and Manufacturing | Gateway: 30 months (excluding EPA period) | Maximum funding: £27,000

Introduction

Explore the vital role of a Nuclear Reactor Desk Engineer, powering one-fifth of the UK’s electricity generation. Learn about their responsibilities in operating, monitoring, and controlling nuclear reactors in power plants and submarines. Discover the required qualifications, skills, and behaviours, emphasizing safety and professionalism in this dynamic field.

Role and Responsibilities

Nuclear Reactor Desk Engineers are central to maintaining nuclear facilities’ safe operations. From control rooms to manoeuvring rooms, they operate, monitor, and respond to reactors under normal and abnormal conditions, ensuring health and safety. As the human interface for reactor systems, they make quick decisions, control operations, and liaise with other teams to ensure steady operation and safety.

Importance of Safety and Professionalism

Safety is paramount, and Reactor Desk Engineers play a crucial role in mitigating risks during incidents. Upholding professionalism, integrity, and courtesy, they promote safety culture, adhering to rules and procedures for reliable operations.

Qualifications and Skills

To become a Nuclear Reactor Desk Engineer, a Higher National Certificate (HNC) in engineering is typically required. Essential skills include monitoring plant conditions, effective communication, time management, and data analysis. They exhibit professionalism, adaptability, and commitment to safety.

Conclusion

The Nuclear Reactor Desk Engineer’s role is pivotal for safe and efficient nuclear operations. Equipped with qualifications, skills, and safety-first behaviors, they contribute to energy security and a sustainable future. Join the UK’s clean energy movement with ApprenticeTips.com – your source for approved apprenticeship standards.

Get InTouch

Discover the latest UK-approved apprenticeship standards at ApprenticeTips.com. Let us help you find your ideal apprenticeship!

Engineering Manufacturing Technician Career Paths

Male engineer in hard hat pointing

Are you looking to become an engineering manufacturing technician apprentice or currently in a training programme? If you answered yes to either of these, then it’s great to plan ahead and start looking at possible careers for your next steps. In this blog, we go through our top 3 career paths for engineers after their apprenticeship.

Costing engineer

As it says in the job role title, this career is focussed of the cost of working. Before working on a job, the costing engineer prices up the job based on the work that needs doing, tools required, and an approximate time that it would take to complete this job. This role is highly important, so the engineers know what they’re working with. They keep track of the project and ensure that the tools and project remain within the budget and is cost effective for the task they are completing.

Costing engineering is a great role to go into. You have high stakes in how engineering products go ahead by collecting data, analytics, proposals, and specifications for the engineer’s work and create templates for how the work will be competed, analysing the job again at the end to make sure that the budget was well kept, and everything went according to plan.

The required skills to become a costing engineer are good communication, negotiation, and influencing skills in order to work with the client to get what they want and the price you require. You also need to have good analysis skills, project management, and be good financially, knowing what prices things so nothing is over or under charged. Finally, you also need to be able to interpret technical data and be able to translate that to the other workers in your team, alongside the client.

With all of these, you’re on the path to becoming a costing engineer.

Production support engineer

Within this role, you are responsible for a lot of the faults or troubleshooting errors that may occur before or during jobs. They respond to any requests sent in my clients to ensure everything on there is up to scratch and ready for the engineers to go in and work on the job at hand. Once these errors have been found, they talk to the engineers about the issue, so they know for the current job and the future, as well as recording them on the system so these any faults that occur, don’t occur again or as regularly in the future. With these problems found, they work to find solutions or improvements that could be used – planning, designing, and testing their ideas. Production support engineers play a huge role in engineering, always having a job to do.

In order to become a production support engineer, you need to ensure that you have the required skills in order to do the job effectively and safely. These are problem solving in order to always find the correct solution that will take place of the fault and work safely. You also need to ensure that your customer service skills are highly trained so you can communicate with clients, receive feedback, and do all this in a professional and polite manner. Finally, you need to have a trained eye with a lot of attention to detail and technical expertise, so any errors or faults are resolved in a high-quality and timely manner.

Highly skilled, organised, confident, and calm? Maybe the production support engineer role is for you.

Process engineer

The role of a process engineer is very important in the engineering world. As a process engineer, you transform raw materials into everyday product by designing, implementing, controlling, and optimising the manufacturing process. Whilst doing this, you also ensure that the role that you are doing is time efficient, in order to get tasks done and tested before the job. You also have to ensure that you are cost effective, so you are not over exceeding the budget required. On top of all of this, you also work to ensure that what you do produce coincides with the health and safety standards.

This job, much like all engineering jobs, have a certain set of skills that are required in order to work effectively. These include problem solving. When something goes wrong while designing or creating, you have to ensure that you can figure out what the problem is and how it can be resolved in a timely matter to ensure all materials are ready when necessary. This also requires critical thinking. You also need to ensure that you have a good attention to detail so your products are to the highest standard possible, matching or exceeding the company standard for better customer reviews.

With these, you could be a process engineer after your apprenticeship.