CNC Machine Shop Apprentice

Jonic Engineering Ltd; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 14,000 - 18,000; Full time

Job summary

Jonic Engineering Ltd in Birmingham offers a CNC Engineering Apprenticeship, focusing on CNC programming, engineering processes and quality checks for hydraulic cylinder components. You'll learn from experienced engineers and gain hands-on experience in a modern manufacturing setting.

Course information: Engineering and manufacturing support technician (level 3), Duration 4 years, Training provider: Birmingham Metropolitan College.

Qualifications

• GCSE English 4/C or above
• GCSE Science 4/C or above
• GCSE Maths 5/B or above
• GCSE Any Subject 4/C

Responsibilities

• Learn CNC programming using Fanuc control systems.
• Support operation and optimisation of long bed and short bed CNC machines.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications.
• Develop understanding of CNC programming, tooling, and processes.
• Use precision measuring equipment to inspect components and verify they meet specs.
• Assist with programme adjustments and process improvements.
• Support engineers with troubleshooting production and programming issues.
• Ensure components meet customer quality standards and tolerances.
• Maintain production and quality records.
• Follow quality procedures and health and safety requirements.
• Work with production and engineering teams to manufacture high-quality cylinders.
• Continue developing technical knowledge through apprenticeship training.

Skills

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Initiative

IT skills

Logical

Number skills

Organisation skills

Problem solving skills

Team working

Education

GCSE English 4/C or above

GCSE Science 4/C or above

GCSE Maths 5/B or above

GCSE Any Subject 4/C

Job description

Introduction

Train as a CNC Machine Shop Apprentice with Jonic Engineering, learning CNC programming, engineering processes and quality checks while supporting the manufacture of precision hydraulic cylinder components. Work with experienced engineers, gain hands‑on experience and develop your skills in a modern manufacturing environment.

About the Employer

Jonic Engineering Ltd is a well-established engineering company with a proud history of manufacturing quality hydraulic cylinders since 1966. Based in Birmingham, the business has built a strong reputation for technical expertise, high‑quality products and excellent customer service, and now supplies blue chip customers across a range of industries. We are particularly experienced in the design of hydraulic cylinders and offer a comprehensive CAD design service using the latest SolidWorks 3D CAD and CAM software. Our engineers are closely involved at every stage of the design process to ensure the best technical solution is delivered at a competitive price. With advanced modelling capabilities including motion study and FEA stress analysis, we combine innovation, precision and practical manufacturing expertise to deliver exceptional results. At Jonic Engineering, apprentices have the opportunity to learn in a modern, supportive environment where design, programming and production work closely together. This is an exciting chance to develop valuable skills, gain hands‑on experience and be part of a company committed to quality and continuous improvement.

What You'll Do

As a CNC Engineering Apprentice at Jonic Engineering, you will develop the knowledge and technical skills required to support the manufacture of precision hydraulic cylinder components. Working alongside experienced engineers, you will gain experience in CNC programming, engineering processes and quality assurance within a modern manufacturing environment.

Your duties will include:

• Learn how to programme CNC machines using Fanuc control systems
• Support the operation and optimisation of both long bed and short bed CNC machines
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, technical specifications and production documentation
• Develop an understanding of CNC programming principles, tooling, cutting data and manufacturing processes
• Use precision measuring equipment, including verniers, micrometres and gauges, to inspect components and verify they meet specifications
• Assist with programme adjustments and process improvements to enhance quality and production efficiency
• Support engineers with troubleshooting production and programming issues
• Ensure components meet customer quality standards and engineering tolerances
• Maintain accurate production and quality records where required
• Follow company quality procedures, engineering standards and health and safety requirements at all times
• Work collaboratively with production and engineering teams to support the manufacture of high‑quality hydraulic cylinders
• Continue developing technical knowledge through workplace experience and apprenticeship training

Training Outcome

On successful completion of the apprenticeship, there may be opportunities to progress into a more advanced engineering role within the company. As the apprentice develops further experience and technical knowledge, they may be able to take on additional responsibilities in CNC programming, machine operation, quality assurance and production support.

Skills Required

• Analytical skills
• Attention to detail
• Initiative
• IT skills
• Logical
• Number skills
• Organisation skills
• Problem solving skills
• Team working

Qualifications

• Essential - GCSE - English - 4/C or above
• Essential - GCSE - Science - 4/C or above
• Essential - GCSE - Maths - 5/B or above
• Essential - GCSE - Any Subject - 4/C

Course Information

Course: Engineering and manufacturing support technician (level 3)

Level: 3

Route: Engineering and manufacturing

Apprenticeship Level: Advanced

Working Arrangements

Working Week: Monday to Thursday, 9.00am to 5.00pm.Friday, 9.00am to 12.00pm.

Expected Duration: 4 Years

Training Provider: BIRMINGHAM METROPOLITAN COLLEGE