Engineering Technician Apprentice

Best Apprenticeships; England; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading apprenticeship provider in the UK is offering a rotating engineering apprenticeship specializing in mechanical, electrical, or electronic disciplines. Apprentices will engage in hands-on projects, supporting world-class scientists and practicing essential skills like CNC machining and soldering. Opportunities include working with CAD software and automation controls. This is an ideal entry point for those passionate about technology and innovation, with comprehensive training provided.

Qualifications

• Interest in machines, electronics, design, or innovation.
• No prior experience required; training provided.
• Willingness to learn and support team efforts.

Responsibilities

• Work on mechanical, electrical, or electronic projects.
• Support scientists in complex tasks.
• Practice skills in various workshops.

Skills

CNC machining

Soldering

Electrical design

Automation and controls

Using CAD software

Fault finding

Building circuits

Job description

Whether you’re fascinated by machines, electronics, design, or innovation, this is your chance to turn passion into profession. You will specialise in one of three disciplines: mechanical, electrical or electronic. Whichever path you take, you’ll progress to complex projects that support world‑leading science.

As a rotating engineering apprentice your main duties/responsibilities will include working under the guidance and support of your team within each placement. Throughout your apprenticeship you will be expected to support scientists from all over the world as they continue to push back the barriers of science.

Mechanical Apprentice

• You’ll help make mechanical parts and assemblies using both modern technology and traditional methods.
• At first, you’ll work in manual machining workshops to practice the skills you learned in your first year.
• CNC machining (computer‑controlled machines)
• Technician roles working with vacuum systems, gases, cryogenics, etc.
• Design work using a range of CAD and simulation engineering tools.

Electrical Apprentice

• You’ll learn how to install different types of cabling, from small control wires to large high‑voltage cables.
• You’ll practice soldering tiny components, sometimes under a microscope.
• You’ll also learn how to set up trunking and conduit (protective channels for cables), and how to test, repair, and maintain electrical systems.
• There are opportunities to:
• Work on electrical design using CAD software.
• Learn automation and controls, including programming PLC/HMI systems.
• Help commission (set up and test) these systems for real applications.

Electronic Apprentice

• You’ll work with advanced electronics, from small chips to large data systems used in global scientific research.
• Early on, you’ll practice core skills like soldering, crimping, building prototype boards, and using test equipment (multimeters, oscilloscopes, etc.).
• As you progress, you’ll move into fault finding, designing, and building circuits.
• You’ll handle a wide range of technologies, from high‑voltage circuits to printed circuit boards with components smaller than a grain of rice.