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Laser and Press Brake Engineering Apprentice

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OKAY Engineering Services - Laser and Press Brake Engineering Apprentice
OKAY Engineering Services in Desborough are looking for a Laser and Press Brake Engineering Apprentice. In this apprenticeship, you will work within the manufacturing team, developing the skills and knowledge required to programme, set up, and operate CNC laser cutting and press-brake machinery.
Wage: £16,224 a year
Training course: Engineering operative (level 2)
Hours: Monday to Thursday 07:30 – 16:45 / Friday 07:30 – 11:30 (39 hours a week)
Start date: Monday 14 September 2026
Duration: 2 years
Positions available: 1
Most of your apprenticeship is spent working. You’ll learn on the job by getting hands-on experience.
What you'll do at work
OKAY Engineering are based in Desborough. They design and build high performance recycling equipment and advanced waste processing plants to help operators become more efficient and the world more sustainable.
They are now looking for an apprentice to join them.
The Laser and Press Brake Engineer will work within the manufacturing team, developing the skills and knowledge required to programme, set up, and operate CNC laser cutting and press-brake machinery. The role will also involve supporting the production of high-quality steel components through a range of workshop activities, including sawing, grinding, and MIG welding. This is an excellent opportunity for an individual looking to build a career in engineering and manufacturing.
Key Responsibilities in this role:
Laser Cutting Operations:
- Learn how to programme, set up, and operate CNC laser cutting machines.
- Assist with the nesting of components to maximise material utilisation and minimise waste.
- Read and interpret engineering drawings and production schedules.
- Monitor machine performance and ensure components are produced to the required specifications.
- Conduct routine machine checks and basic maintenance tasks.
- Inspect finished parts and report any quality issues.
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Press Brake Operations:
- Learn how to programme, set up, and operate press-brake machinery.
- Assist in the bending and forming of sheet metal components to engineering specifications.
- Follow production instructions and technical drawings accurately.
- Measure and inspect finished components to ensure quality standards are met.
- Support continuous improvement of manufacturing processes.
Manufacturing Support:
- Assist in the production of steel components and assemblies.
- Carry out sawing, grinding, deburring, and finishing operations.
- Learn and perform MIG welding activities under supervision.
- Prepare materials and components for production.
- Support colleagues across the manufacturing department as required to meet production targets.
Health, Safety and Quality:
- Follow all company health, safety, and environmental procedures and wear and maintain appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Maintain a clean, organised, and safe working environment and adhere to quality standards and report any defects or non-conformances.
- Participate in training and development activities to enhance skills and knowledge.
Where you'll work
Eagle Avenue
Magnetic Park
NN14 2WD
Training
Apprenticeships include time away from working for specialist training. You’ll study to gain professional knowledge and skills.
Training provider
BEDFORD COLLEGE
Training course
Engineering operative (level 2)
Understanding apprenticeship levels (opens in new tab)
Training schedule
Level 2 Engineering Operative - Mechanical Manufacturing Pathway.
Functional Skills in English or maths if required.
Requirements
Desirable qualifications
- GCSE in:
- English (grade 9 - 3)
- Maths (grade 9 - 3)


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Skills
- Enthusiastic
- Team player
- Attention to detail
- Good communication skills
- Number skills
Other requirements
Candidates must attend an initial interview with a member of the Bedford College Apprenticeship Recruitment Team. Please note this is part of the recruitment process and must be completed in order for your application to be progressed to the next stage.
Please consider how you will get to work and the Corby College Campus.
Please be aware that the closing date is subject to change without prior notice.
About this employer
OKAY Engineering are based in Desborough. They design and build high performance recycling equipment and advanced waste processing plants to help operators become more efficient and the world more sustainable.
https://okay.co.uk/ (opens in new tab)
After this apprenticeship
Your earnings can increase over time with an apprenticeship. Find out about potential future pay (opens in new tab).
Training in CNC laser programming and operation.
Training in press-brake programming and operation.
Development of MIG welding skills.
Understanding of engineering drawings and manufacturing techniques.
A full time role and the end of your apprenticeship.
Ask a question
The contact for this apprenticeship is:
BEDFORD COLLEGE
Julie Carter
jcarter@bedford.ac.uk
(01536) 413508
The reference code for this apprenticeship is VAC2000042740.
Apply now
Closes in 14 days (Thursday 30 July 2026)
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