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Manufacturing Technician Apprentice
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Manufacturing Technician Apprentice
Encocam in Huntington are looking for a Manufacturing Technician Apprentice. You will undergo a structured, hands-on training program designed to turn you into a specialist in panel mechanics and precision machining. You will learn the exact science behind core-to-skin bonding, vacuum consolidation, and how to program and operate CNC routers.
Most of your apprenticeship is spent working. You’ll learn on the job by getting hands-on experience.
What will you be doing in the role?
Aluminium Honeycomb & Skin Preparation
- Learn to handle, degrease, and chemically or mechanically prepare material surfaces to ensure optimal surface energy for adhesive bonding.
- Master the handling of an array of different composite core types such as Aluminium honeycomb, learning how to cut, splice, and manipulate them before lay-up.
Structural Bonding & Assembly
- Understand the properties of structural film adhesives and paste adhesives.
- Learn to assemble the "sandwich" stack (Skin-Adhesive-Core-Adhesive-Skin) according to strict engineering blueprints.
- Gain expertise in vacuum bagging techniques, pressure application, and monitoring oven/heated press curing cycles.
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CNC Router Machining & Post-Processing
- Train on the industrial CNC routers to safely perform panel profiling, pocketing, and drilling.
- Learn to set up workpiece holding (vacuum beds, fixtures) specifically tailored for composite panels and structures to prevent vibration or damage and ensure accuracy.
- Progressively learn to operate CNC machinery, select correct tooling, and assist with basic CAD/CAM programming.
Panel Finishing & Hardware Integration
- Learn bespoke post-processing techniques, including edge-closing, potting, and installing inserts or edge members as part of the composite structure.
- Conduct visual and dimensional quality checks using vernier calipers, micrometres, and depth gauges to ensure compliance with client specifications.
Engineering Design & CAD Exposure
- Gain hands-on exposure to industry-standard design software (SolidWorks) to understand how 3D digital models are built.
- Learn to interpret and create technical engineering drawings, mastering geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) to ensure components meet strict standards.
- Work alongside our design team to learn how bespoke sandwich panels are engineered from concept to physical reality, understanding how material selection affects panel weight, stiffness, and CNC machining limitations.
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You will be required to attend the Bedford College campus from September 2026.
Apprenticeships include time away from working for specialist training. You’ll study to gain professional knowledge and skills.
Your earnings can increase over time with an apprenticeship. Find out about potential future pay.
Encocam Ltd have a proven track record in developing the skills and talents of their apprentices, who go on to have flourishing careers within the business. The invaluable skills and qualifications obtained throughout the apprenticeship journey have also enabled previous apprentices to move into different roles and departments.
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London
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