engineering apprenticeships

Level 4 Apprenticeships: A Comprehensive Guide to Starting Your Career as a Building Services Engineering Technician

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Apprenticeships 101

Are you interested in getting some industry experience and training? Apprenticeships are just the right answer for you! They pair you with employers giving you the chance to learn not only in theory but also through hands-on practice. Links to further apprenticeships are below and if you’d like to know more do not hesitate to sign up to our mailing list below!

You can find plenty of apprenticeship opportunities on various online platforms like Indeed, Glassdoor, or directly on company or government websites. An apprenticeship is a win-win situation – you get trained while you earn a salary. After completion, you receive a nationally recognized qualification in your chosen field. The general requirements for an apprenticeship are being 16 or older and not currently engaged in full-time education. Employers value a positive attitude, eagerness to learn, and genuine interest in the industry. Strong communication skills, ability to solve problems, teamwork, and initiative also play a significant role. So, get ready to showcase these skills during your interview, displaying your readiness and interest in learning and changing.

Apprenticeships don’t just offer a salary and learning opportunities. You also gain practical experience, create a network of industry contacts, and earn an internationally recognized qualification. It’s a step towards a fulfilling career, blending academic training with real-world practice. If this suits your career goals, start your research and send in your applications today.

Level 4 – Building services & engineering technician

Let’s use Building services engineering technician (Level 4) as an example to illustrate what an apprenticeship entails. This role is common in the construction and engineering industries. The job ensures buildings cater to occupants’ needs, providing comfort, safety, security, and efficiency, while ensuring environmental protection. As a building services engineering senior technician, you manage building systems such as mechanical (heating, ventilation, and cooling), electrical (power and lighting), and public health systems (water services and drainage). Your job entails managing the systems’ manufacturing, installation, or addressing any issues related to these systems within a building.

Your technical expertise plays a significant role in developing and delivering engineering solutions. You analyze information, solve complex problems, and make advanced calculations. Moreover, you prepare and present engineering designs in line with industry standards like BSI Flex 8670 and ISO 19650, and health and safety guidelines. Pairing this with software like CAD or BIM for computational tasks, you ensure your projects align with environmental policies, legislation, and sustainability goals such as the UNSDG and net-zero carbon emissions targets. It’s not just about the technicalities.

You deal with managing tasks, teams, project and risk management techniques, conducting site inspections, reporting on project plans, and interacting with diverse teams. Also, you have to ensure the delivery of accurate and quality engineering solutions, manage technical aspects, and comply with health and safety regulations. This role offers its share of variety as you might work from offices, remote locations, sites, or even visit customers. With its multifaceted dimensions, the apprenticeship for a Building services engineering technician is a fulfilling career step.

For more details on this Level 4 Apprenticeship https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/building-services-engineering-technician/

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Level 5 – Rail & Rail Systems Apprenticeship

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Rail & Rail Systems Engineer Apprentices learning in a hands on environment

A Level 5 – Rail & Rail Systems Apprenticeship could set you on the right tracks for the future. Check out this post to find out everything you need to start a Level 5 Rail and Rail Systems Apprenticeship now…

The ideal Rail and Rail Systems Engineer works as part of a multi-disciplinary team, but with personal responsibility and accountability for projects related to their specialist area. They can work in multiple railway worksites or in technical offices. They have a strong understanding of how the railway works as a whole and are able to assess the impact of their work and its interfaces with other teams. This includes an understanding of conventional rail or high speed rail, or both. They are responsible for the provision of rail specific technical engineering knowledge relating to a specific aspect of the railway. Specialist areas include rail specific civil engineering, rail track, rail signalling and control, rail systems & integration, rail traction and rolling stock, rail telecommunications, network and digital and rail electrical, mechanical and building services. Regardless of specific role, the Rail and Rail Systems Engineer Apprentice should ensure the railway runs smoothly on a day to day basis and to provide rail specific engineering knowledge across their own organisation to ensure this is the case. This includes supporting work relating to the integrated safe design, construction, installation, maintenance, renewal, or decommissioning of assets and equipment, to provide a safe and reliable railway.

Key Duties

  • Planning, processing, maintenance and production of railway assets and equipment.
  • Rail specific input to operational processes.
  • Taking proactive actions and decisions to avoid railway asset, equipment, process and systems failures within their area of influence.
  • Working across the Organisation to identify areas for rail system improvement.
  • Supporting or supervising individuals and teams in the delivery of Rail Engineering and Rail System tasks within their designated discipline
  • Providing and sharing specialist knowledge across the Organisation and ensuring that the impact to the railway of any changes is identified.

Core Knowledge & Skills

Knowledge

  • Safe and Professional working practices including rail specific legislation, regulation (e.g. Common Safety Method Risk Assessment(CSM RA)), industry procedures, safety and quality requirements, risk management and environmental impact of rail construction work and rail equipment.
  • The scientific, technical, engineering, mathematical and design principles and practices relating to their area of expertise in the context of how the railway works as an integrated, complex system, including an appreciation of all specialisms.
  • How to contribute effectively to the delivery of rail specific engineering solutions, applying project management principles, asset, risk and quality management and assurance systems, processes and techniques.
  • How strategic decisions are made including financial planning, budget control, commercial impacts, contractual obligations, supply chain management and resource constraints within a railway / regulated industry.
  • How teams work effectively; supporting individuals/teams to contribute to high performance within a safety critical sector and understanding how the specialist rail areas link together and their dependencies.
  • How to attract, recruit, develop and retain people including organisational change theory and performance management techniques within the safety critical rail sector.

Skills

  • Keep themselves and others safe by demonstrating safe working practices.
  • Apply a range of technical skill sets within their area of expertise or discipline in order to support railway research, development, design, procurement, logistics, planning, delivery, quality assurance, inspection, testing, installation, commissioning, maintenance, life cycle management, decommissioning and environmental compliance.
  • Deliver Rail & Rail Systems Engineering solutions effectively including planning, resource allocation, and management and delivery to the required specification.
  • Provide input to technical, business planning, finance and commercial meetings.
  • Use creative thinking and problem solving techniques to challenge rail and rail systems engineering assumptions, make new proposals and build on existing ideas.
  • Lead and support single discipline teams. Able to work effectively and collaboratively, individually and as part of a team.
  • Manage relationships with a range of stakeholders. Able to apply collaborative working techniques.
  • Problem solving and continuous improvement tools / techniques in a railway context.

Behaviours

  • Communication and influencing skills, choosing an appropriate means for the audience and the situation, checking for understanding and considering and building on ideas of others.
  • Professionalism, dependability, determination, consistency, resilience, honesty and integrity. Accepts and exercises personal responsibility within a safety critical sector.
  • A self-disciplined, self-motivated and motivational approach to work, managing time effectively to ensure levels of commitment are understood and delivered.
  • Safe working practice, without close supervision, to approved rail industry standards. Identifies and takes responsibility for own obligations for health, safety, and welfare issues.
  • Collaborative working, being aware of their actions and the impact they may have on others, maintaining effective relationships with rail colleagues, clients, suppliers and the public.
  • A focus on quality, promoting a culture of continuous improvement.
  • Continuous Professional Development; receptive to giving and receiving constructive feedback, willing to learn new skills and learn from mistakes. Identifies, undertakes and records CPD necessary to maintain and enhance competence.

Entry Requirements

Individual employers will set the selection criteria for their Apprenticeships in conjunction with their chosen provider(s). Apprentices without Level 2 English and Maths will need to achieve this level prior to taking the end point assessment. For those with an education, health and care plan or a legacy statement, the apprenticeship’s English and Maths minimum requirement is Entry Level 3, and British Sign Language qualifications are an alternative to English qualifications for those whom this is their primary language.

The typical duration for the Level 5 – Rail & Rail Systems Apprenticeship is typically 24-30 months depending on the previous experience of the apprentice and access to opportunities to gain the full range of competence.

For a full overview of what this apprenticeship program could provide, check out the link below.

Level 5 Rail & Rail Systems Engineer Apprenticeship

For more information on a wide variety of apprenticeships, check out some of our other blogs below or follow us on X for regular updates on new apprenticeship programs as well as tips and tricks for finding and starting an apprenticeship…

Apprenticeships

The Level 3 Vehicle MET Technician Apprenticeship Breakdown

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man fixing car engine

In today’s rapidly evolving automotive landscape, the roles and responsibilities of apprentices in the industry are expanding at a swift pace. One such apprenticeship, the Vehicle Damage Mechanical, Electrical and Trim (MET) Technician, plays an indispensable role in the vehicle repair process.

Who is a MET Technician?

Commonly known by various titles such as Bodyshop Mechanic, Stripper/Fitters, MET Technician, and Bodyshop Technician, a MET specialist operates predominantly in the vehicle body repair sector. Their primary responsibility is to identify and manage damaged mechanical and electrical components in cars and light commercial vehicles, especially post-collision. This often happens within the controlled environment of a collision repair workshop.

Beyond mere identification, these technicians are tasked with removing and refitting these components both before and after body repair work. Their contribution ensures that vehicles involved in accidents or similar incidents are restored to their former glory, if not better.

What skills will you develop in this role?

The depth of knowledge required for this role is immense. MET Technicians:

  • Assess faults and prepare detailed job cards.
  • Remove and fit body panels with precision alignment.
  • Diagnose vehicle issues using advanced software.
  • Master engine, gearbox, and suspension systems.
  • Utilize industry-specific tools, including diagnostic and calibration equipment.
  • Understand both technical aspects and the business impact, emphasizing accuracy and cost-efficiency.

What is expected of you?

The technical prowess of a MET technician goes hand in hand with exemplary behavior:

  • Prioritize safety and adhere to business protocols.
  • Be a team player, accountable for deadlines and mishaps.
  • Stay updated with the latest automotive technologies.
  • Communicate effectively with customers and peers

The Path to Becoming a MET Technician

For those intrigued by this career path, a MET Technician apprenticeship typically requires a commitment of around three years for new entrants. Individual employers determine specific entry requirements. Furthermore, apprentices need to fulfil certain educational prerequisites, like attaining a level 2 in English and maths.

To learn more about Vehicle Damage MET Technician apprenticeships, and find out more about other offerings and the apprenticeship process, visit our pages on LinkedIn and Twitter, as well as signing up to our newsletter.

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Level 6 Apprenticeship – Ordnance Munitions & Explosives

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  • Career in Ordnance Munitions & Explosives

The technical, engineering, and scientific world. Doing lab research, making new products and everything in between. Does this sound like it’s for you? OME Professionals have important jobs that encompass all of these things. A career in Ordnance Munitions and Explosives, through an apprenticeship allows you paths into offers diverse opportunities in different sectors, such as defence, chemical, military, and more. Read on to find out more about this Level 6 degree apprenticeship, and how it could provide a smooth transition into the industry for you!

Entry Requirements

Every employer sets their specific criteria, although, given the job’s nature, it’s likely that you’ll need to be a minimum of 18 years old, as well as a likely requirement of three A-Levels, including Maths. Certain employers may consider alternative qualifications or relevant experience.

What Does an OME Apprentice Do?

Each specialization option within the apprenticeship program offers unique technical knowledge and skills. Over time, you will acquire the skills to interpret data, apply effective research methods, and collaborate successfully. You will have the chance to design efficient OME manufacturing processes, with a strong emphasis on the quality and safety of the products, alongside maintaining a steadfast commitment to the highest safety standards while offering technical advice to both internal and external customers.
Your core knowledge will include essential concepts related to safety, security, environmental considerations, materials science, and more. You must demonstrate the ability to implement safety measures, identify areas for improvement, and adapt to changing circumstances.

Specialisation 1 : Research and Development Professional

As a Research and Development professional, you will need to solve challenges involving chemicals and formulations. You will need to stay updated on OME research and related fields, which will help in your decision making and management, documenting these processes for complex energetics programs, ensuring you adhere to standards and meet customer needs.
You will understand the breadth of OME studies, including propellant behavior, casing integrity, design, safety, emerging technologies, such a 3D printing, system thinking, and diverse research methods, which will help to advance the field.

Apprentices undertaking this option could typically be employed in these roles within the sector: 

  • Research and development Scientist/Engineer
  • Product Engineer/Designer
  • Explosives Chemist
  • Analytical Instrumentation
  • Industrial Explosives Chemist
  • Ballistician
  • Energetic Research Scientists
  • Terminal Effects Designer

Specialisation 2 : Safety Professional

As a Safety Professional, your job will be to enhance safety through audits and inspections. Your role will involve offering guidance on safety matters and how that can be used to facilitate safety education. You will take part in incident investigations to pinpoint root causes and distribute relevant lessons learned. Next, you will be responsible for the development and review of safety documents to uphold a culture of best safety practices.
You will gain proficiency in the safe management of OME hazards, enabling you to assess the severity of situations within OME facilities. This knowledge will empower you to effectively apply relevant regulations and industry best practices. This knowledge will allow you to oversee facility operations and infrastructure. From this, you will become familiar with addressing licensing and emergency planning, implementing safety management systems, and recognising the human impact on operations.

Apprentices undertaking this option could typically be employed in these roles within the sector: 

  •  Decontamination officer
  • Range Safety Officer
  • Explosive Safety Representative
  • Safety Advisor
  • Safety Manager
  • Training & Assessment Officer
  • Dangerous Goods Safety Advisor
  • Transport Manager
  • Custody Holder
  • Magazine Manager

Specialisation 3 : Manufacturing and Processing Professional

Manufacturing and Processing Professionals are responsible for ensuring safe and precise production of OME products, using efficient design tools and metrics to establish and ensure process capability. Overseeing compliant manufacturing processes, by using engineering and chemistry principles to promote safety and efficiency. Collaboration with other experts is crucial for optimising OME production, considering the product’s entire lifecycle, and ensuring safety throughout.
Your technical knowledge will include an understanding of OME product critical features, process requirements, and design options, evaluation and selection of the right design choice from various options using multi-criteria analysis, all of which will allow you to gain an understanding of end-to-end manufacturing processes. Ultimately, ensuring a balance between workplace and product safety and maintaining quality throughout the OME lifecycle.

Apprentices undertaking this option could typically be employed in these roles within the sector: 

  • Product Engineer / Designer / Operator
  • Manufacturing/Process Engineer
  • Quality Assurance/Control Engineer
  • Maintenance Engineer
  • Process Design Engineer, chemist or modeller

To summarise this, completing a level 6 OME Apprenticeship can provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to embark on a prosperous career in this industry. This career path allows you to leverage your unique personal attributes.
If you would like to learn more about apprenticeships, visit us online on Twitter or Linkedin!

Level 3 Heritage Engineering Technician

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Young Heritage Engineering Technician apprentices, working underneath a historical plane. Apprenticeship, heritage, historical, mechanical, machinery, work, learn
Young Heritage Engineering Technician apprentices, working underneath a historical plane. Source: Canva Magic Media

Level 3 Heritage Engineering Technician Apprenticeship

Does a career restoring and preserving historic vehicles and machinery sound fulfilling? With 6 standards to choose from within this Level 3 Heritage Engineering apprenticeship, your existing skills can be tailored to the area your most passionate about.

The standards for this apprenticeship have been accredited by businesses such as Jaguar Land Rover and The Royal Air Force Museum. Continue reading below to find out more about this fascinating apprenticeship opportunity.

The 6 options available within this apprenticeship:

  1. Aviation Technician: working with any type of aircraft, Civil or Military. Use traditional or new technology to conserve, repair or restore them.
  2. Marine Technician: carrying out maintenance or restoration on any vessels including sail, oar and engine powered.
  3. Steam (Mechanical Overhaul) Technician: repairing, modelling or manufacture of mechanical components, such as wheels or frames. Related to steam engines, for example locomotives and ships.
  4. Steam (Boiler-smith) Technician: also working on any steam engines, with a focus on the boiler design, restoration and manufacture.
  5. Vehicle Mechanical Technician: this includes a range of historic vehicles. Varying work complying with strict legislation.
  6. Coach-building & Trim Technician: ranging from repair to rebuilds of coaches and trims.

What will you do as a Heritage Engineering Technician?

Across all of the above options, the skills you will learn and work includes working on heritage artifices, researching their history and surveying the condition of them. Dissembling projects and recording insights, evaluating components, generate insights and methods to solve unique issues, and carrying out restoration and repairs.

What will you learn?

As a heritage engineering technician, you will gain a core knowledge and insight of

  • Regulations relevant to your specific area, as well as general organisational, statutory and health and safety.
  • The guide for Care of Larger and Working Historic Objects published by the Museums and Galleries commission.
  • The value of heritage engineering.
  • Materials, equipment and tools necessary for each project.
  • How to review and draft schedules and plans, and develop working strategy as it progresses.
  • Mathematical and scientific principles e.g. formulae, metric and imperial measurement.
  • The principles of supple chain management.
  • Non-destructive testing methods.
  • Methods used to inspect, restore, protect and manufacture- original methods and new.
  • Supply chain management principles.
  • How to identify forms of corrosion and degradation, and select the best restoration method in response.
  • Mechanical, non-mechanical and thermal jointing processes.
  • How to manage customers expectations, requirements and budgets.

What behaviours will you need to demonstrate?

  • Compliance with policies and and health and safety regulations, taking personal responsibility. This includes the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, and others. The apprentice will need to demonstrate high levels of personal resilience and responsibility as a core competency.
  • Good team working skills across internal and external teams. Managing people, responsibility and workloads through strong communication.
  • Hold strong ethical, diversity and equality values, and work at a high standard to promote these.
  • Demonstrate communication and interpersonal skills. Use appropriate channels of communication to be clear, and honest. Have a respectful manor always when navigating partnerships or suppliers.
  • Quality and problem solving. Identifies opportunities to improve processes, quality, output, speed and efficiency.
  • Continuous professional development. This is a strong drive and self-motivation to always improve, learn new skills and find challenges. Overall this is a passion to improve personal performance.
components historical engineering technician apprenticeship restoration repairs heritage

Interested in a Heritage Engineering Technician apprenticeship?

If this sounds fascinating to you, and you want to apply, you’ll need minimum entry level 3 maths and English qualifications.

The length of a Heritage Engineering technician apprenticeship ranges 42 to 48 months.

If you’d like to find out more about similar apprenticeships available, have a look here.

Level 6: Space Systems Engineering Apprenticeship

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Architectural photography of range hood Space systems engineering

Learn more about an exciting journey into space engineering with the Level 6 Space Systems Engineering Apprenticeship. With this program you can play a key role in designing, manufacturing, and testing advanced space equipment and ground support systems. Read on to find out more about the roles and responsibilities, progression routes and assessment methods for this apprenticeship. 

  • Contents:
  • Job summary
  • Job requirements
  • Duties
  • Progression Route
  • Assessment methods

Job Summary: Space Systems Engineering

This apprenticeship involves taking a leading role in the design, manufacturing and testing of complex, high value space hardware and ground support equipment.

This occupation operates within the space industry, mainly in the early stages of spacecraft production known as ‘upstream’ manufacturing. The main tasks involve designing and creating spacecraft and their components. You are also responsible for producing, operating, and maintaining specialised ground support equipment. This equipment is crucial for facilitating the development and testing of satellites and space technologies before their launch.

Space Systems Engineers are knowledgeable in engineering fields and mechanical disciplines. While you may have a broad understanding of these areas, you can typically specialise in one or more specific areas. 

Job Requirements

Space Systems Engineers work in secure and controlled environments, workshops and development areas. You may have to work at ground level and high level on walkways, and can also work in regular offices. These environments can involve working with high vacuum facilities and high pressure gas and fluid delivery systems. 

Their tasks include addressing customer and mission requirements, conducting research and development, providing technical support, and taking on leadership roles to ensure the successful execution of space-related projects. You are required to build and manage relationships with many stakeholders, such as project managers, engineering team members, technical specialists and other system engineers. You may also interact with external stakeholders like suppliers and customers.

You may have to carry out work in compliance with standards imposed by key customers such as the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) or the European Cooperation for Space Standardization (ECSS). It is also very important that you adhere to health and safety requirements and statutory regulations.

Person writing on brown wooden table near white ceramic mug. apprenticeships, space systems engineering

Duties: Space Systems Engineering

Requirements and Design: Define requirements and develop design and verification methods for spacecraft subsystems, including power, propulsion, attitude control, communications, and thermal control.

Materials Selection: Choose suitable techniques, components, and materials for the mission’s unique environment, such as vacuum-compatible materials and radiation-resistant electronic components.

Engineering Support: Provide engineering assistance for mission-specific and research projects, contributing insights on factors like vibration test levels and data interpretation.

Mission Expertise: Offer expertise during the launch and early mission phases.

Integration and Testing: Provide technical leadership and support for integration and testing across a range of projects.

System Trade-offs: Perform trade-offs at the system level, coordinating inputs from various disciplines to evaluate solutions and design changes.

Requirements Management: Ensure all requirements are addressed during project reviews and milestones.

Test Planning: Develop test plans and procedures, compile test reports, and manage test data for subsystem and spacecraft designs.

Documentation Management: Oversee technical and project documentation for control, monitoring, verification, and reporting during space projects.

Project Support: Assist project managers in risk assessments, budget formulation, and scheduling.

Resource Oversight: Manage resource budgets and margins within the project, considering mass, power, and volume.

Technical Solutions: Identify technical solutions for project-specific designs, materials, and manufacturing processes.

Team Leadership: Lead technical teams within projects, including line management of team members.

Project Coordination: Contribute to project management by coordinating technical staff allocation and working with project managers and lead systems engineers to ensure successful project delivery

Example progression Route:

  • Aerospace Engineer (degree)
  • Aerospace software development engineer (degree)
  • Systems engineer (degree)
  • Post graduate engineer 

Assessment methods:

One piece of evidence will be a project with a report. The title and scope of this will be agreed at gateway. You will need to prepare and give a presentation to an assessor in a slide format, and any supporting documentation should be submitted at the same time. You will also be required to answer at least 5 questions about the project and presentation. The typical duration of this apprenticeship is 48 months. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, a Level 6 space systems engineer apprenticeship is a great opportunity for you to demonstrate technical expertise, design and analysis skills, project management as well as essential communication and collaboration skills.

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Maritime Mechanical and Electrical Mechanic Apprenticeship – Level 2

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Mechanic undertaking maintenance of electrical equipment on ships. Image from Complete apprenticeship

Always wanted to work for the Navy? Keen for a practical learning approach? If so the Maritime mechanical and electrical mechanic Apprenticeship may be exactly what you need to kickstart your career in the Navy.

Read on to find out more about this course alongside future career progression within the Navy and more!

Contents

  • Roles and Responsibilities
  • Core Competencies
  • Career opportunities
  • Qualification
  • Conclusion

Roles and Responsibilities

As a Maritime mechanical and electrical mechanic you will play a critical role in ensuring the proper functioning of electrical, mechanical, and fluid power equipment on ships and submarines. You will work from engineering drawings, data and documentation in order to undertake the testing, fault diagnosis and maintenance of electrical, mechanical and fluid power equipment on ships and submarines.

Key responsibilities will include:

  • Undertaking various tests and inspections to ensure that the equipment is in proper working order. This includes functional testing, performance testing, and safety checks.
  • Completing daily rounds and checking machinery to ensure the ship remains operational.
  • The maintenance and fault diagnosis of all the ships machinery and support systems. This involves tasks such as lubrication, cleaning, calibration, and replacing worn or damaged parts to prevent breakdowns.

You will also learn to maintain and operate some of the most cutting-edge equipment on the planet this includes:

  • Propulsion machinery
  • Weapons, sensors and reactors
  • Auxiliary systems
  • Electronic equipment such as programmable logic controllers, power generation and distribution

Core competencies for a Maritime Mechanical and; Electrical Mechanic – Level 2

Modern Engineering organisations require their employees to have a set of core competencies that will ensure success both in their role and in the overall company objectives.  These competencies are the combination of knowledge, skills and behaviours required to carry out the work. These include:

Knowledge

  • Mathematical techniques, formula and calculation appropriate to their role.
  • Electrical, mechanical, pneumatic and fluid power engineering technology and principles
  • Correct selection and use of electrical and mechanical hand tools and test equipment.
  • Quality, safety, health and environment regulations

Skills

  • Read, analyse and interpret engineering data, drawings and documentation used in the operation and maintenance procedures.
  • Use hand and power tools to measure, mark out, cut, drill, shape and finish components to the required engineering tolerances
  • Assembly, removal, maintenance and overhaul components, equipment and systems.
  • Comply with correct entry procedures and precautions for confined spaces

Behaviours

  • Demonstrate a strong work ethic
  • Effective communication
  • Adaptability able to adjust to change including the use of shared facilities.
  • Collaborative and team player able to work and interact effectively within a team.
  • Dependability being reliable at all times especially for watch keeping
  • Follow safe working practices, committed to their own and their colleagues wellbeing at work and the precautions to prevent pollution of the marine and wider environment
Two mechanics undertaking tests on equipment
Two mechanics undertaking tests on equipment. Image from Seatechmarine.com

Career opportunities

Maritime mechanical and electrical mechanic are employed in either the Royal Navy as or in the Merchant Navy. You will form part of a team of Mechanics responsible to the Chief Engineer, for the maintenance and fault diagnosis of all the ships machinery and support systems.  The engineering knowledge and skills used in the role can be transferred to other entry level engineering roles in other industries. Setting you up for future success! See the job titles below:

Job Titles

Within the Royal Navy:

  • Marine Engineer
  • Weapons Engineer
  • Motorman/ Motorhand (Royal Fleet auxiliary)

Within the Merchant Navy:

  • Motorman/ Motorhand
  • Marine Engineer

Progression

Apprentices may progress to Mechanical and Electrical Maritime Fitter at level 3.

Marine mechanics from the Royal navy. Image from Royal Navy careers
Marine mechanics from the Royal navy. Image from Royal Navy careers

The Qualification

The following qualifications will be awarded

  • Level 2 Diploma in Maritime mechanical and electrical mechanic (Competence)
  • Level 2 Diploma in Maritime mechanical and electrical mechanic (Knowledge)

Duration of the Apprenticeship

Typically 18 to 24 months.

Assessment Plan

Please see link to the assessment plan for Level 2 Maritime Mechanical and Electrical Mechanic

Conclusion

Hopefully this blog has inspired you for a future career in the Navy. A great opportunity to get involved in the Engineering and manufacturing sector that leads you onto further learning opportunities with the support of the incredible training providers.

Not sure if it was for you? Not to worry, click the button below to see the variety of other Apprenticeships available at all different levels and sectors on our site.

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Level 3 Water Industry Network Technician

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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

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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

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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.