Tappex Thread - L3 Machining Technician Apprenticeship

Make UK; Stratford-upon-Avon; On-site; GBP 12,000 - 18,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PPE provided

Comprehensive training

Career progression opportunities

Job summary

Tappex Thread Inserts Ltd. invites candidates to join a busy precision engineering environment as an apprentice Davenport Machine Setter. You will learn to set up machines, perform changeovers, and use precision measuring tools. Training blocks include 6 weeks at Make UK and practical company placements.

Structured year-by-year development covers foundation and workplace skills, with progression as you complete Level 3 BTEC and related qualifications.

Qualifications

• 3 GCSEs at 9-4 / A, including maths and English, science preferred.
• Willingness to learn and proactive approach.
• Strong problem-solving with attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Assist with set-up and changeover of Davenport machines under supervision.
• Learn how to ensure machines run efficiently and produce quality components.
• Use measuring equipment (micrometers, verniers, shadowgraphs) to check accuracy.
• Read and understand engineering drawings.
• Support new team members and learn basic training techniques.
• Follow all company quality and safety procedures.

Skills

Willingness to learn

Problem solving

Interest in engineering

Communication skills

Education

3 GCSEs including Maths & English

Job description

You will work within a busy and supportive environment, learning essential skills to become part of our specialist team responsible for setting and maintaining multi-spindle Davenport machines.

What You Will Learn and Do

• Assist with the set-up and changeover of Davenport machines under supervision.
• Learn how to make sure machines are running efficiently and producing quality components.
• Use measuring equipment (e.g. micrometers, verniers, shadowgraphs) to check component accuracy.
• Read and understand engineering drawings.
• Support new team members and learn basic training techniques.
• Bar-up machines and assist with basic tooling when needed.
• Follow all company quality and safety procedures.

Working Environment: You'll work in our busy, industrial machine shop - it's noisy, oily, and fast-paced, but we'll provide all the PPE and training you need to work safely and confidently. You'll be part of a team that values attention to detail, learning, and teamwork.

Working Week AT the company

Mon - Fri 7 AM to 14:30 PM, On completion of your studies, you will achieve your full apprenticeship certification that will prove competence as a Level 3 Machining Technician

Future Prospects

Future Prospects of a Davenport Machine Setter Becoming a Davenport Machine Setter is an excellent starting point for a long-term career in precision engineering and manufacturing. With experience, skill development, and the right attitude, there are several clear progression routes within a company like Tappex:

1. Senior Machine Setter Take on responsibility for more complex changeovers and troubleshooting. Support junior setters and operators with training and mentoring. Help improve machine utilisation and reduce downtime.
2. Production Supervisor / Team Leader Step into a leadership role, managing a team of setters and operators. Oversee daily machine shop operations, shift planning, and performance metrics. Act as a key link between production and engineering.

3 GCSEs at 9 - 4 / A

• - C (5 or above preferred), must include maths, English language, and ideally Science, or equivalent related qualification.

Personal Qualities

• Dependable in both attendance and work ethic.
• Eager to develop skills and expand knowledge of a Davenport Machine Setter
• Open to feedback and proactive in seeking out learning opportunities.
• Uses initiative to find solutions efficiently and safely.
• Able to switch between different tasks and adapt to changing priorities.
• Works well under pressure, especially during breakdowns or urgent repairs.
• Communicates well with colleagues and works collaboratively.
• Supports team objectives and contributes positively to group tasks.
• Understands the importance of safety in a manufacturing environment.

Skills Required

• A willingness to learn and a proactive approach.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• An interest in engineering and maintenance.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team.

Training to be Provided

• Advanced Manufacturing Engineering Practical Foundation Training - in year 1, in 6 week blocks to include 4 weeks at Make UK and 2 weeks in company
• Advanced Manufacturing Engineering Workplace Competence Training - in years 2 to 4 in company
• Level 3 BTEC Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering Development Knowledge - in Years 1, 2 & 3 on block release to Make UK

Tappex Thread Inserts Ltd. is a leading manufacturer of high-quality threaded inserts and fasteners, serving industries worldwide, including automotive, aerospace, electronics, and manufacturing. Established over 60 years ago, we have built a strong reputation for innovation, quality, and precision engineering.