Engineering Apprenticeship Qualifications

Engineering Operative
Level 2

Qualification Level: Level 2
Duration: Typically 12-18 months
Funding: Up to £10,000 (funding band)
Professional Recognition: Provides foundational skills for progression in engineering roles.

The Engineering Operative Apprenticeship is designed for individuals aiming to start a career in the engineering and manufacturing sectors. This program equips apprentices with the essential skills and knowledge to perform a range of engineering operations, contributing to the success of various industries

What You Will Learn

Engineering Operations – Develop the ability to use tools, equipment, and techniques across different engineering disciplines.
Health & Safety Compliance – Understand and follow regulations to maintain a safe working environment.
Technical Drawings & Documentation – Learn how to interpret technical documents, diagrams, and specifications.
Equipment Maintenance & Setup – Gain hands-on experience in maintaining and setting up engineering tools and machinery.
Effective Communication – Work efficiently within teams and with stakeholders in engineering environments.

Assessment

Apprentices will complete:
On-the-Job Training – Learning and development within the workplace.
Portfolio of Evidence – Demonstrating knowledge, skills, and behaviors.
End-Point Assessment (EPA) – Includes a practical skills observation and a professional discussion informed by a reflective portfolio

Future Job Prospects & Learning Opportunities

Upon completion, apprentices can progress into roles such as:
Maintenance Operative
Machine Setter/Operative
Fabricator
Engineering Fitter

Further development options include:
Level 3 Engineering Apprenticeships
Specialist Engineering Training
Higher Education in Engineering Disciplines

Food and Drink Maintenance Engineer
Level 3

Qualification Level: Level 3
Duration: Typically 42 months
Funding: Up to £27,000 (funding band)
Professional Recognition: Provides a strong foundation for advanced roles in food and drink engineering.

The Food and Drink Maintenance Engineer Apprenticeship is tailored for individuals aiming to excel in the food and drink manufacturing sector. This program equips apprentices with the essential skills to maintain and optimize production machinery, ensuring efficiency and compliance with industry standards.

What You Will Learn

Food Processing & Manufacturing – Understand the specific processes used in food production, such as dairy, confectionery, and meat processing.
Health & Safety Compliance – Learn how to maintain strict food hygiene, safety regulations, and quality assurance.
Maintenance & Fault Diagnosis – Develop the ability to maintain and repair mechanical and electrical systems.
Technical Engineering Skills – Gain hands-on experience with machinery, fluid power systems, and electronic control systems.
Continuous Improvement & Sustainability – Implement best practices for efficiency and sustainable manufacturing.

Assessment

Apprentices will complete:
On-the-Job Training – Workplace-based training in a food production environment.
Portfolio of Evidence – A collection of work demonstrating knowledge, skills, and behaviors.
End-Point Assessment (EPA) – Includes a written knowledge test, practical observation, and professional discussion

Future Job Prospects & Learning Opportunities

Upon completion, apprentices can progress into roles such as:
Food and Drink Mechanical Maintenance Engineer
Food and Drink Multi-Skilled Maintenance Engineer
Food and Drink Advanced Engineer

Further development options include:
Higher-Level Engineering Apprenticeships
Specialized Training in Food Manufacturing Technologies
Progression to Engineering Leadership Roles

Maintenance Operations

Engineering Technician

Level 3

Qualification Level: Level 3
Duration: 36-42 months
Funding: Up to £27,000 (funding band)
Professional Recognition: Meets the Engineering Council standards for EngTech registration

The Maintenance and Operations Engineering Technician apprenticeship is designed for individuals who want to build a career in the engineering and manufacturing sectors. This program provides the skills and knowledge needed to maintain the safety, integrity, and effective operation of equipment in industries such as power generation, oil and gas, manufacturing, and pharmaceuticals.

What You Will Learn

Apprentices will develop skills and knowledge in:

Engineering Principles – Understanding mechanical, electrical, and control systems.
Health & Safety Compliance – Ensuring workplace safety and environmental sustainability.
Fault Diagnosis & Repair – Identifying and fixing equipment issues.
Technical Documentation – Reading and interpreting manuals and schematics.
Preventative Maintenance – Maintaining the efficiency of plant and machinery.
Effective Communication – Engaging with teams, supervisors, and stakeholders.

Assessment & Qualification

This apprenticeship follows a blended approach to learning, including on-the-job training, classroom-based sessions, and practical assessments. Apprentices must complete:

On-Programme Learning – Employer-led workplace training & skills development.
Portfolio of Evidence – Demonstrating knowledge, skills, and behaviours.
End-Point Assessment (EPA) – Includes a knowledge test, practical observation, and professional discussion.

Future Job Prospects & Learning Opportunities

Upon completion, apprentices can progress into roles such as:

  • Maintenance Engineer

  • Engineering Technician

  • Plant Operations Technician

  • Senior Engineer / Supervisor

Further progression could include a Level 4 Engineering Apprenticeship or a degree in Engineering.

Find out more about our Engineering Apprenticeships