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CNC Machine Shop Apprentice

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Train as a CNC Machine Shop Apprentice with Jonic Engineering
Learn CNC programming, engineering processes, and quality checks while supporting the manufacture of precision hydraulic cylinder components. Work with experienced engineers, gain hands-on experience, and develop your skills in a modern manufacturing environment.
What you'll do at work
As a CNC Engineering Apprentice at Jonic Engineering, you will develop the knowledge and technical skills required to support the manufacture of precision hydraulic cylinder components. Working alongside experienced engineers, you will gain experience in CNC programming, engineering processes, and quality assurance within a modern manufacturing environment.
Your duties will include:
- Learn how to programme CNC machines using Fanuc control systems
- Support the operation and optimisation of both long bed and short bed CNC machines
- Read and interpret engineering drawings, technical specifications, and production documentation
- Develop an understanding of CNC programming principles, tooling, cutting data, and manufacturing processes
- Use precision measuring equipment, including verniers, micrometres, and gauges, to inspect components and verify they meet specifications
- Assist with programme adjustments and process improvements to enhance quality and production efficiency
- Support engineers with troubleshooting production and programming issues
- Ensure components meet customer quality standards and engineering tolerances
- Maintain accurate production and quality records where required
- Follow company quality procedures, engineering standards, and health and safety requirements at all times
- Work collaboratively with production and engineering teams to support the manufacture of high-quality hydraulic cylinders
- Continue developing technical knowledge through workplace experience and apprenticeship training
Where you'll work
Jonic Engineering Ltd, 237 Speedwell Road, Yardley, Birmingham, B25 8EU
Training
Apprenticeships include time away from working for specialist training. You’ll study to gain professional knowledge and skills.
Training provider
BIRMINGHAM METROPOLITAN COLLEGE
Training course
Engineering and manufacturing support technician (level 3)
What you'll learn
Course contents
- Follow health and safety regulations, standards, and guidance.
- Follow procedures in line with environmental and sustainability regulations, standards, and guidance. For example, segregation of resources for reuse, recycling, and disposal.
- Comply with engineering standards and regulations. For example, British Standards (BS), International Organisation for Standardisation standards (ISO), European Norm (EN).
- Analyse engineering and manufacturing data and information to support technical outputs. For example, read and interpret text, data, engineering drawings, work instructions, method statements, operation manuals.
- Apply scientific, technical, or engineering principles.
- Apply problem-solving techniques to solutions for identified technical problems.
- Organise, plan, and prioritise workflow and scheduling of work with stakeholders.
- Identify, organise, and use resources to complete tasks, considering cost, quality, safety, security, and environmental impact.
- Produce job-specific technical outputs. For example, engineering drawings, quality control management, computer control programming, business improvement, adverse incident reports, technical investigations, equipment appraisals, and specifications.
- Provide support and guidance for handover of work to stakeholders. For example, checklists, product or process status, access to supporting documents.
- Record information - paper-based or electronic. For example, energy usage, equipment service records, test results, handover documents, checklists.
- Follow standard operating procedures.
- Follow manufacturer's instructions. For example, safe instructions for use of products, processes, and machinery.
- Apply quality assurance and control principles and practices. For example, conduct physical checks, take samples, inspections, or tests.
- Apply continuous improvement techniques.
- Apply team working principles.
- Communicate in writing with others, for example, stakeholders, colleagues, and managers.
- Communicate with others verbally, for example, colleagues and stakeholders.
- Use information and digital technology. Comply with GDPR and cyber security regulations and policies.
- Carry out and record learning and development activities.
- Apply equity, diversity, and inclusion procedures.
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Training schedule
The apprentice will train through a combination of workplace learning and academic study. They will develop practical skills and knowledge by working on real engineering projects with their employer, supported by experienced engineers. This hands-on experience is complemented by structured academic learning.
Training will be delivered from James Watt College in Great Barr, Birmingham. On successful completion of this apprenticeship, apprentices will achieve the Level 3 Engineering and Manufacturing Support Technician Apprenticeship Standard and a Level 3 Diploma in Engineering and Manufacturing Support Technologies (awarded by EAL or Pearson BTEC).
Apprentices will also complete the End-Point Assessment and meet any applicable English and mathematics requirements. This apprenticeship provides a recognised route towards professional registration as an Engineering Technician (EngTech), supporting future career progression within the engineering and manufacturing sector.


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Requirements
Essential qualifications
- GCSE in:
- English (grade 4/C or above)
- Science (grade 4/C or above)
- Maths (grade 5/B or above)
- Any Subject (grade 4/C)
Share if you have other relevant qualifications and industry experience. The apprenticeship can be adjusted to reflect what you already know.
Other requirements
You will be required to travel between the employer's site in Yardley and James Watt College in Great Barr, Birmingham. Before applying, please ensure you have researched the travel arrangements and can reliably commute to both locations.
About this employer
Jonic Engineering Ltd is a well-established engineering company with a proud history of manufacturing quality hydraulic cylinders since 1966. Based in Birmingham, the business has built a strong reputation for technical expertise, high-quality products, and excellent customer service, and now supplies blue chip customers across a range of industries. We are particularly experienced in the design of hydraulic cylinders and offer a comprehensive CAD design service using the latest SolidWorks 3D CAD and CAM software. Our engineers are closely involved at every stage of the design process to ensure the best technical solution is delivered at a competitive price. With advanced modelling capabilities including motion study and FEA stress analysis, we combine innovation, precision, and practical manufacturing expertise to deliver exceptional results. At Jonic Engineering, apprentices have the opportunity to learn in a modern, supportive environment where design, programming, and production work closely together. This is an exciting chance to develop valuable skills, gain hands-on experience, and be part of a company committed to quality and continuous improvement.
After this apprenticeship
Your earnings can increase over time with an apprenticeship. On successful completion of the apprenticeship, there may be opportunities to progress into a more advanced engineering role within the company. As the apprentice develops further experience and technical knowledge, they may be able to take on additional responsibilities in CNC programming, machine operation, quality assurance, and production support.
Ask a question
The contact for this apprenticeship is:
BIRMINGHAM METROPOLITAN COLLEGE
BMet Recruitment
recruitment@bmet.ac.uk
0121 362 1122
The reference code for this apprenticeship is VAC2000049021.
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