Level 4 Engineering Manufacturing Technician Apprentice

Pillarhouse International Ltd.; Chelmsford; On-site; GBP 15,000 - 20,000; Full time

Job summary

Pillarhouse International Ltd. offers a Level 4 Engineering Manufacturing Technician apprenticeship, providing hands-on training in assembling selective soldering systems. Apprentices will learn vital skills in both mechanical and electrical systems, with opportunities for career advancement. The role includes assembling components and testing systems, crucial for various sectors within the electronics industry.

Qualifications

• Apprentices will undergo training on soldering techniques and assembly procedures.
• Understanding of electronic controls and mechanical systems is vital.
• Training includes circuit testing and fault diagnosis.

Responsibilities

• Assemble precision sub-units like solder baths and pumps.
• Conduct circuit testing, power-up, and fault diagnosis.
• Participate in machine assembly before dispatch.

Skills

Good hand-eye coordination

Basic soldering techniques

Education

Level 4 Engineering Manufacturing Technician Standard

Tools

Standard test equipment

Multi-meters

Signal generators

Circuit analyzers

PC-controlled automated test rigs

Job description

Pillarhouse International is a leading international manufacturer of selective soldering systems for the electronics manufacturing industry.

Selective soldering is used throughout the electronics industry for joining large-scale components to printed circuit boards (PCBs). This technology is vital in industries such as aerospace, automotive, telecommunications, and medical sectors. Pillarhouse International Ltd specializes in designing and manufacturing these machines, with installations in over fifty countries worldwide.

Our machines feature 3-axis precision mechanical movement driven by electronic motors, utilizing proximity sensors and pneumatic actuators for position and movement control. All systems are managed through in-house designed multi-layer printed circuit boards (PCBs) and PC-based machine-specific software/firmware, effectively functioning as CNC soldering machines. The mechanics must seamlessly integrate with the electrical control systems to ensure speed and precision in selective soldering.

Opportunities for career progression include roles in Process Engineering, Support Services, Design, and Workshop supervision beyond the initial apprenticeship (mechanical). For those focusing on electrical apprenticeships, pathways include advancement into the test department, PCB and wiring circuit design, or software and firmware development.

The scope of work involves assembling precision sub-units such as solder pumps, solder baths, and Z-lift lead screw assemblies, as well as final machine wiring, assembly, setting, circuit testing, power-up, fault diagnosis, and functional testing before dispatch.

Electronics apprentices will be trained in using standard test equipment, from basic multi-meters to signal generators, circuit analyzers, and PC-controlled automated test rigs. During development and production testing, modifications or repairs to PCB assemblies may be necessary; apprentices will learn hand soldering techniques, emphasizing good hand-eye coordination.

The apprenticeship is based on the Level 4 Engineering Manufacturing Technician Standard. The working week is Monday to Friday, with shifts to be confirmed, and includes day release to college on Thursdays.