As an Apprentice Machinist

The successful candidate will learn how to manufacture bearing housings and other engineered components using CNC milling and turning machines. They will work alongside experienced engineers, gaining practical skills in machine operation, reading engineering drawings, measuring components, quality inspection.

Wage

• £16,224 for your first year, then could increase depending on your age
• National Minimum Wage rate for apprentices
• Minimum wage rates (opens in new tab)

Training course

• Engineering technician (level 3)

Hours

• Monday to Thursday 7:30am- 4:00pm
• Friday 6:30am- 1:30pm
• 39 hours a week

Start date

• Monday 7 September 2026

Duration

• 3 years 4 months

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

The apprentice will work closely with experienced colleagues, learning how to manufacture precision bearing housings and other machined components to customer specifications. They will gain experience of CNC machining processes, engineering drawings, quality control procedures and safe working practices within a professional engineering environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in the manufacture of precision-engineered components using CNC milling and turning machines
• Learn to interpret engineering drawings, specifications and production documentation
• Develop skills in machine set-up, tooling selection and machining principles
• Carry out dimensional inspections using a range of measuring equipment
• Support quality assurance activities to ensure components meet required standards
• Follow company procedures relating to health, safety and housekeeping
• Work effectively as part of a manufacturing team while developing independent working skills
• Participate fully in workplace and college-based training activities

Where you'll work

UNIT 17
THORNLEIGH TRADING ESTATE
DUDLEY
DY2 8UB

Apprenticeships include time away from working for specialist training. You’ll study to gain professional knowledge and skills.

Training provider

• DUDLEY COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY

Training course

• Engineering technician (level 3)

What you'll learn

Course contents

• obtaining, checking and using the appropriate documentation (such as job instructions, drawings, quality control documentation)
• working safely at all times, complying with health, safety and environmental legislation, regulations and organisational requirements planning and where applicable obtaining all the resources required to undertake the work activity
• undertaking the work activity using the correct processes, procedures and equipment
• carrying out the required checks (such as quality, compliance or testing) using the correct procedures, processes and/or equipment
• dealing promptly and effectively with engineering/manufacturing problems within the limits of their responsibility using approved diagnostic methods and techniques and report those which cannot be resolved to the appropriate personnel
• completing any required documentation using the defined recording systems at the appropriate stages of the work activity
• restoring the work area on completion of the activity and where applicable return any resources and consumables to the appropriate location
• read and interpret relevant data and documentation used to manufacture aerospace components/systems
• assemble and disassemble aerospace mechanical components, sub-assemblies and whole systems (new and in service) as required measure and mark out of materials to carry out precision machining and hand fitting processes
• precision drilling and finishing of holes in aircraft assemblies use mechanical and or electrical/electronic measuring and or test equipment used on aircraft assemblies and systems
• apply assembly techniques (such as mechanical fasteners, welding and bonding techniques)
• use sealing and jointing techniques: use of seals, gaskets, and jointing materials contribute to the business by identifying possible opportunities for improving working practices, processes and/or procedures
• assemble, disassemble and install aerospace components, sub-assemblies and whole systems (new and in service) as required such as wiring looms, anti-icing systems, electrical connectors, avionic units and using specified methods and procedures
• set up and use a range of measuring, testing, diagnostic tools, rigs and equipment, using approved methods and procedures install lighting, power supplies, engine control and instrumentation systems
• carry out testing and diagnostic activities on installed components, equipment and systems and making adjustment/rectification where applicable
• carry out precision drilling and finishing of holes in aerospace assemblies apply correct locking and securing methods and techniques (mechanical fasteners, locking and electrical bonding techniques)
• use sealing and jointing techniques: use of seals, gaskets, and jointing materials install and connect pipe-work systems and aerospace assemblies
• contribute to the business by identifying possible opportunities for improving working practices, processes and/or procedures
• read and interpret relevant data and documentation used to maintain aircraft components and systems
• select and use the correct hand and mechanical tools and equipment while carrying out maintenance of aircraft apply human factors in aviation – attitudes and behaviours to ensure aviation safety
• use mechanical and electrical measuring and or test equipment while carrying out aircraft maintenance activities
• carry out aircraft functional checks and fault diagnosis e.g. electrical bonding and earthing; flight control rigging
• use ground support equipment
• identify, control, repair and prevent damage, fatigue and corrosion of aircraft components
• maintain power-plant (piston or turbine engines), propellers or rotors
• use the correct bonding and assembly techniques e.g. in composite assembly
• carry out precision drilling and finishing of holes in aircraft assemblies
• identify and install mechanical fasteners
• use sealing and jointing techniques: use of seals, gaskets and jointing techniques
• assemble, repair and replace pipe work for aircraft and engine systems
• inspect, repair, remove and replace aircraft structures, components, sub-assemblies and systems
• undertake aircraft flight-line handling and operations
• carry out testing and diagnostic activities on components, sub – assemblies or whole systems, making adjustments where applicable
• maintain aerospace components, sub – assemblies or whole systems as required undertake aircraft role configuration activities/requirements
• prepare and maintain the aircraft maintenance programme
• apply Human Factors in aviation – developing attitudes and behaviours to ensure aviation safety
• maintain relationships between the aircraft operator and the aircraft maintenance organisation recognising the regulatory responsibilities of both parties
• use relevant computer software, information systems and documentation necessary to carry out the role
• use asset and inventory management systems within a continuing airworthiness environment