Apprentice Machining Technician
Level: 3
Employer: THE UNIVERSITY OF MANCHESTER
Location: Oxford Road
The Technical Apprenticeship Programme will provide you with the ability to become the best version of yourself, taking your career with full support to the next level. As a Machining Technician at The University of Manchester, you will work in modern workshops with state-of-art equipment and highly skilled colleagues.
Duration: 4 Years
Expected start date: 07/09/2026
Hours per week: 35 hours
Wage: (Annually)
Job role includes
As an apprentice, you will receive detailed instruction, information and training surrounding many key aspects pivotal to the successful implementation of machining work within busy, dynamic workshops, based within the Faculty of Science & Engineering.
Training opportunities include:
- Producing components using hand-fitting techniques
- Preparing and using lathes for turning operations
- Preparing and using milling machines
- Using hand tools, such as pillar drills and band saws to aid in engineering prototype and build
- Mechanical workshop fabrication, including machining, fitting, welding, and general metal work to repair/modify and manufacture components from drawings
- Producing mechanical engineering drawings using CAD systems
- Use of computer-controlled (CNC) machines
- Use of 3D printing technologies
- Use of plasma, laser, and water cutters
- Maintaining mechanical devices and equipment
- General workshop housekeeping, including cleaning, monitoring and maintenance
- Working safely in an engineering environment
- Using and communicating technical information
- Carrying out engineering activities efficiently and effectively
- Supporting research projects including the manufacture of bespoke parts to desired specifications
- Design engineering concepts to resolve engineering challenges.
- Liaise with students, researchers, staff, and external personnel to achieve engineering requirements
- Undertake additional training and development to remain skilled and current
- Work with selected industries to complete live project work within an engineering specialism
- Learn project management skills for engineering projects
About employer
One of the world’s leading universities built on research and teaching practices, coupled with one of the most respected apprenticeship programmes in the UK. Our programme builds its success’s year-on-year and continues to develop, matching the needs of the university and our community. We are proud of our strong reputation, supporting each of our apprentices with individualised training, specialised projects, and targeted development to build a future career at the cutting edge of technology.
- You will spend a mixture of time working alongside experienced professionals, absorbing their wisdom and applying your learning in real-time situations
- Imagine being at the forefront of engineering innovation, where each day brings a new challenge and opportunity to excel
- The programme is a dynamic blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application. Picture yourself mastering the intricacies of producing engineering components, crafting precise CAD drawings, and sharpening your skills in sheet metal work
- You'll delve into the art of hand fitting and the precision of CNC programming, all while gaining an industry-recognised Level 3 Machine Technician qualification
- As you progress, your journey will be peppered with enriching experiences that foster not only technical proficiency but also professional growth
- By the end of this programme, you will have a robust portfolio showcasing your expertise, ready to impress in a competitive industry
- Upon completion of the apprenticeship in 4 years’ time, you will have a portfolio of key machining skills and a wealth of varied, relevant experience
- Most apprentices are successful in securing a role with the university or choose to continue their academic studies. Opportunities to progress onto a higher apprenticeship or degree apprenticeship exist for high-performing candidates upon completion of their first apprenticeship with us
- Whilst we cannot guarantee a permanent position at the University of Manchester, we endeavour to match apprentices with appropriate vacancies and support them through the entire application process
- Communication skills
- IT skills
- Attention to detail
- Organisation skills
- Problem solving skills
- Number skills
- Analytical skills
- Logical
- Team working
- Creative
- Initiative
- Non judgemental
- Patience
- Strong work-ethic
- Desire to progress
- Passion for Engineering
