Engineering Technician (Multiple Job Roles) Level 3 Apprenticeship
Joint Applications for apprenticeships and full-time courses have now closed.
If you are aged between 15 and 18 and interested in an Apprenticeship but do not yet have a contract of employment from an employer, we strongly advise you to apply for a full-time programme as well so you have a back-up. We process both your full-time application and apprenticeship application until you inform us that you have secured an employer and have an Apprenticeship contract in place, at which point your apprenticeship application will take priority.
As joint applications have now closed, if you have not previously made a joint full-time and apprenticeship application to study at Colchester Institute then you will need to book onto an Advice Session where you can speak to a course tutor post-results day.
Advice sessions are by appointment only and will be available to book from 10am on Thursday 12th August. As soon as bookings have opened, you will be able to use the appointment calendar to book an advice session. Information about our advice sessions and how to book can be accessed here:
Whilst we cannot guarantee that a place will be available on your preferred choice at this late stage in the application cycle, we will help to get you sorted for September.
If you have an employer ready to put an Apprenticeship contract of employment in place for you, then please fill in the apprenticeship late application form linked below:
An Engineering Technician in the Aerospace, Aviation, Automotive, Maritime Defence and the wider advanced Manufacturing and Engineering sectors will predominantly be involved in highly skilled and complex work.
An Engineering Technician takes responsibility for the quality and accuracy of the work they undertake within the limits of their personal authority. They also need to be able to demonstrate a core set of behaviours in order to be competent in their job role, complement wider business strategy and development. This will enable them to support their long term career development.
Engineered and manufactured products and systems that an Engineering Technician works on could involve mechanical, electrical, electronic, electromechanical and fluid power components/systems.
The Engineering Technician Apprenticeship standard is available in the following Pathways:
Role Profile
Product Design & Development Technicians primarily work on all stages of product creation and modification. They support activities ranging from early concept feasibility, design and development stages right through to final preparation for launch and customers. This includes working in concept studios, rapid prototyping, assembly, testing, validating and analysing performance. Typically they
work closely with engineers in bring new concepts to life or supporting redesigns of existing products.
Specific Specialist Knowledge and Skills
Specific Specialist Knowledge:
- understand mathematical techniques, formula and calculations in a product design and development environment
- understand material applications and methods of testing (destructive and non- destructive)
- understand Computer Aided Design (CAD) methods and applications
- understand material joining applications and systems
- understand mechanical, electrical, electronic and process control systems
- understand measurement, monitoring, testing and diagnostic methods and techniques
Specific Specialist Skills:
- read and interpret relevant data and documentation used in the design and development of components, assemblies and systems
- produce components and prototypes using a wide range of hand fitting techniques
- produce assemblies and rigs using a range of materials and techniques
- use mechanical, electrical and electronic testing devices and equipment
- produce components and prototypes using a wide range of hand fitting techniques
- prepare and using lathes, milling machines, as well as other general or specialist high technology equipment such as 3D printing/additive manufacturing techniques
produce assemblies and rigs using a range of materials and techniques - use a range of mechanical, electrical and electronic testing devices and equipment
- apply mechanical principles and joining techniques to develop products, devices and equipment
- apply electrical and electronic principles to develop products devices and equipment
- identify, diagnose and rectify design problems through the whole creation process including design studio, workshops, test environments or under laboratory conditions
- contribute to the business by identifying possible opportunities for improving working practices, processes and/or procedures
Mandatory Qualifications
After a period of foundation skills and technical knowledge development all apprentices will be required to achieve the following qualifications:
- Level 2 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (Foundation Competence)
- Level 2 Award for Foundation Phase Gateway Assessment
After a further period of skills and technical knowledge development all apprentices will be required to achieve the following qualifications:
- Level 3 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (Development Competence) – Product Design and Development
Plus one of the following
- Level 3 Diploma in Engineering Technology (QCF) – for starts up to June 2017 only
- Level 3 Extended Diploma in Engineering Technologies (QCF) – for starts up to June 2017 only
- Level 3 Diploma or Extended Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (Development Knowledge) – for all starts from 1st July 2017
Role Profile
Machinists in the Advanced Manufacturing Engineering sector are predominantly involved in highly skilled, complex and precision work, machining components from specialist materials using conventional and/or CNC machine tools such as centre lathes, vertical and horizontal milling machines, horizontal and cylindrical grinding machines, electro discharge machines, single and multi- axis CNC machine tools centres. They will be expected to be able set up, operate and adjust/edit equipment settings as applicable to the machine tool being used. When using CNC equipment they will be expected to be able to produce, prove and/or edit programmes. During and on completion of the machining operations they will be expected to measure and check the components being produced and make adjustments to the equipment/programme to ensure components meet the required specification.
What knowledge and skills are covered?
Mandatory Qualifications
After a period of foundation skills and technical knowledge development all apprentices will be required to achieve the following qualifications:
- Level 2 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (Foundation Competence)
- Level 2 Diploma in Machining (Foundation Knowledge)
After a further period of skills and technical knowledge development all apprentices will be required to achieve the following qualifications:
- Level 3 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (Development Competence) – Machining
- Level 3 Diploma in Machining (Development Knowledge)
The Level 2 Knowledge and Competency Diplomas are delivered 1 day a week for 2 years. The knowledge and competency units covered are:
- Complying with statutory regulations and organisational safety requirements
- Working efficiently and effectively in an engineering environment
- Using and communicating technical information
- Conducting business improvement activities
- Producing components using hand fitting techniques
- Preparing and using lathes for turning operations
- Preparing and using milling machines
- Preparing and using CNC turning machines
- Preparing and using CNC milling machines
- Producing CAD models (drawings) using a CAD system
Apprentices will then study the Level 3 Knowledge Diploma, which is delivered for 1 day a week for 2 years. The Level 3 Competency Diploma will be assessed in the work place for 2 years and the competency qualification units will be discussed and agreed with the employer. The Level 3 knowledge qualification units are:
- Engineering and environmental health and safety
- Communication for machinists/engineers
- Properties and applications of engineering materials
- Engineering maths
- Advanced manufacturing CNC turning techniques
- Advanced manufacturing CNC milling techniques
- CAD/CAM
- Engineering inspection and quality control
What are the entry requirements?
Individual employers will set the selection criteria, but candidates will typically have 4 GCSEs at Grade C (4) or equivalent, including Mathematics, English and a Science subject
How often do I have to attend college?
College attendance of one day per week will be required over the duration of the course. This will be in conjunction with further assessment in the workplace. Our well-equipped workshops will allow apprentices to carry out practical work in a safe environment.
How will I be assessed?
College based assignments/examinations and accredited qualifications, work placed assessment in competency.
What can I do next?
Completion of the Apprenticeship is designed to be recognised by relevant Professional Engineering Institutions at the appropriate level of professional registration (EngTech). In the case of the Military specific pathway in the Aircraft Maintenance Fitter/Technician Standard, professional competence will be recognised by the Military Independent Assessment Authority (MIAA).
Possible progression into further training as a Higher Apprentice Level 4/5 or a Degree Apprenticeship level 6 with the support of a suitable employer.
Role Profile
Technical Support Technicians, work as part of a team to provide technical support and expertise for all areas of the Engineering and Manufacturing function including communications software, test, analysis tools, measurement, off line programming, process control, performance and continuous improvement solutions, capacity planning, production scheduling/planning, product technical applications and capability, technical sales and marketing support, product development and innovation, engineering drawing, purchasing and/or supply of goods or services for engineering activities, quality control, inspection and e-commerce technologies as required. The requirements are designed to offer stretch and progression. They will be able to work with minimum supervision, taking responsibility for the quality, accuracy and timely delivery of the work they undertake. They will be proactive in finding solutions to problems and identifying areas for improving the business.
Specific Specialist Knowledge and Skills
Specific Specialist Knowledge:
- understand mathematical techniques, formula and calculations used in a technical support environment
- understand the methods and techniques used to evaluate technical data and documentation
- understand how to identify that the data and documentation being used is current and up to date
- understand the procedure to be used for making changes to issued documentation
- understand where and how to source other areas of technical expertise/information to help solve technical problems
- understand the requirements of the customer (internal/external) and support using the appropriate tools, equipment and processes
Specific Specialist Skills:
- produce technical documentation that contains all the relevant and necessary data
and information required for the technical support activity being carried out - present the technical documentation in the required format
ensure that codes, symbols and other references used in the technical
documentation follows agreed uk/international conventions - save and store technical documentation in the correct format, location in accordance with organisational and/or customer requirements
- make any changes/amendments to the technical documentation using agreed quality
- assurance control procedures
- develop effective business and/or customer relationships
- provide technical advice and guidance to others
- contribute to the business by identifying possible opportunities for improving working practices, processes and/or procedures
Plus one of the following:
- produce engineering/manufacturing production plans
- obtain resources for engineering/manufacturing activities
- obtain and control materials used in engineering/manufacturing environments
implement quality control/assurance systems and procedures in an engineering/manufacturing environment - provide technical support services on products or services to internal and/or external customers
- produce documentation to supply or procure goods or services
- produce off line programs for computer numerical controlled machines
- produce programs for scanning/digitizing or co-ordinate measuring machines
- produce programs for programmable logic control equipment
- produce programs for industrial robot applications
- produce engineering software tools/programs for analysis, quality, configuration management, safety assessments, system security applications
- produce engineering drawings/models using computer aided design techniques
(such as mechanical, electrical, fabrication, fluid power, integrated systems or services) - undertake complex fault diagnostic and/or condition monitoring activities on equipment, plant or services
- carry out inspection activities on equipment/components/systems (such as mechanical, electrical, electronic, welded and fabricated.
- check and calibrate control and test equipment used in an engineering and/or manufacturing environment
Mandatory Qualifications
After a period of foundation skills and technical knowledge development all apprentices will be required to achieve the following qualifications:
- Level 2 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (Foundation Competence)
After a further period of skills and technical knowledge development all apprentices will be required to achieve the following qualifications:
- Level 3 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (Development Competence) – Technical Support
- Level 3 Diploma or Extended Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (Development Knowledge) – for all starts from 1st July 2017
Pathway – Mechatronics Maintenance Technician
Role Profile
Mechatronics Maintenance Technicians ensure that plant and equipment perform to the required standard to facilitate production targets regarding Safety, Quality, Delivery and Cost within High Value Manufacturing environments. Typically the work would cover a broad range of activities include installation, testing, fault finding and the on-going planned maintenance of complex automated equipment. This requires the application of a complex blend of skills, knowledge and occupational behaviours across the electrical, electronic, mechanical, fluid power and control systems disciplines.
Specific Specialist Knowledge and Skills
Specific Specialist Knowledge:
- understand mathematical techniques, formula and calculations in a mechatronics maintenance environment and the type of equipment being maintained
- understand mechanical, electrical, electronic, fluid power and process control principles in a mechatronics maintenance environment
- understand how equipment being maintained functions and operating parameters in individual components and how they interact
- understand fault diagnostic methods, techniques and equipment used when maintaining equipment and systems
- understand condition monitoring methods and equipment used and understand how the information gained supports the planning of maintenance activities
- understand how to minimise machinery downtime by implementing planned preventative maintenance programmes
Specific Specialist Skills:
- read and interpret relevant data and documentation used to maintain components, equipment and systems
- carry out condition monitoring of plant and equipment
- carry out planned maintenance activities on plant and equipment
- carrying out complex fault diagnosis and repair activities on high technology engineered systems such as:
- Maintaining mechanical equipment
- Maintaining fluid & pneumatic power equipment
- Maintaining electrical & electronic equipment
- Maintaining process control equipment
- carrying out confirmation testing and subsequent smooth hand over of equipment & plant support the installation, testing and commissioning of equipment (where applicable).
- contribute to the business by identifying possible opportunities for improving working practices, processes and/or procedures
Mandatory Qualifications
After a period of foundation skills and technical knowledge development all apprentices will be required to achieve the following qualifications
- Level 2 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (Foundation Competence)
- Level 2 Award for Foundation Phase Gateway Assessment
After a further period of skills and technical knowledge development all apprentices will be required to achieve the following qualifications:
- Level 3 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (Development Competence) – Mechatronics Maintenance Technician
Plus one of the following
- Level 3 Diploma in Engineering Technology (QCF) – for starts up to June 2017 only
- Level 3 Extended Diploma in Engineering Technologies (QCF) – for starts up to June 2017 only
- Level 3 Diploma or Extended Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (Development Knowledge) – for all starts from 1st July 2017
Level 2 competency duration and times: Full time attendance, 5 days a week for 18 weeks, 09.00-17.00
Level 2 competency units delivered and covered are:
- Complying with statutory regulations and organisational safety requirements
- Working efficiently and effectively in an engineering environment
- Using and communicating technical information
- Conducting business improvement activities
- Producing components using hand fitting techniques
- Preparing and using lathes for turning operations
- Preparing and using milling machines
- Wiring and testing electrical equipment and circuits
- Maintaining electrical equipment and systems
- Producing mechanical engineering drawings using a CAD system
- Preparing and using TIG equipment
Level 2 competency duration and times: Part-time attendance, 2 days a week for 36 weeks, 09.00-17.00
Level 2 competency units covered are:
- Complying with statutory regulations and organisational safety requirements
- Working efficiently and effectively in an engineering environment
- Using and communicating technical information
- Conducting business improvement activities
- Producing components using hand fitting techniques
- Preparing and using lathes for turning operations
- Preparing and using milling machines
- Wiring and testing electrical equipment and circuits
- Preparing and using MIG/MAG equipment
- Maintaining Electrical Equipment and Systems
- Producing mechanical engineering drawings using a CAD system
All learners will have to undertake a Level 2 gateway assessment which may require a 1 week block assessment. Following this, learners shall attend at Colchester to study the modular delivery that occurs in each semester.
Colchester:Â Level 3 knowledge duration and times: 1 day a week, 36 weeks, 3 years, 09.00-17.00
Student will study the Level 3 Knowledge qualification, which is delivered for 1 day a week for 3 years and the Level 3 competency, which will be assessed in the work place. Level 3 competency qualification units will be discussed and agreed with the employer.
Level 3 Knowledge Units (All Pathways except Craft Machinist)
A selection of the Level 3 knowledge qualification units taught include:
- Health & Safety in the Engineering Workplace
- Communications for Engineering Technicians
- Mathematics for Engineering Technicians
- Engineering Project
- Mechanical Principles of Engineering Systems
- Electrical and Electronic Principles
- Properties and Applications of Engineering Materials
- Applications of Mechanical Systems in Engineering
- Engineering Organisational Efficiency and Improvement
- Computer Aided Design (CAD) Techniques
- Further Mathematics for Engineering Technicians
- Engineering Maintenance Procedures and Techniques
- Maintenance of Mechanical Systems
- Installation of Electrical Equipment
- Features and Applications of Electrical Machines
- Three Phase Motors and Drives
- Further Electrical and Electronic Principles
What knowledge and skills are covered?
- understanding the importance of complying with statutory, quality, organisational and health and safety regulations
- understanding of general engineering/manufacturing mathematical and scientific principles, methods, techniques, graphical expressions, symbols formulae and calculations used by engineering technicians
- understanding the structure, properties and characteristics of common materials used in the sector
- understanding the typical problems that may arise within their normal work activities/environment
- understanding approved diagnostic methods and techniques used to help solve engineering/manufacturing problems
- understanding the importance of only using current approved processes, procedures, documentation and the potential implications for the organisation if this is not adhered to
- understanding and interpreting relevant engineering/manufacturing data and documentation in order to complete their job role
- understanding the different roles and functions in the organisation and how they interact.
- understanding why it is important for an organisation to continually review their processes and procedures
- 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
What are the entry requirements?
Individual employers will set the selection criteria, but candidates will typically have 4 GCSEs at Grade C (4) or equivalent, including Mathematics, English and a Science subject
How often do I have to attend college?
College attendance of 2 day per week will be required for year one, with one day per week in years 2/3/4. This will be in conjunction with further assessment in the workplace. Our well-equipped workshops will allow apprentices to carry out practical work in a safe environment.
How will I be assessed?
College based assignments/examinations and accredited qualifications, work placed assessment in competency.
What can I do next?
Completion of the Engineering Technician Apprenticeship is designed to be recognised by relevant Professional Engineering Institutions at the appropriate level of professional registration (EngTech). In the case of the Military specific pathway in the Aircraft Maintenance Fitter/Technician Standard, professional competence will be recognised by the Military Independent Assessment Authority (MIAA).
Possible progression into further training as a Higher Apprentice Level 4/5 or a Degree Apprenticeship level 6 with the support of a suitable employer.
How is my business going to benefit from an Engineering Technician Apprentice?
Having an Apprentice Engineering Technician employee that can demonstrate the following behaviours:
- Personal responsibility, resilience and ethics. Comply with health and safety guidance and procedures, be disciplined and have a responsible approach to risk, work diligently at all times, accept responsibility for managing time and workload and stay motivated and committed when facing challenges. Comply with any organisational policies/codes of conduct in relation to ethical compliance
- Work effectively in teams. Integrate with the team, support other people, consider implications of their actions on other people and the business
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills. open and honest communicator, communicating clearly using appropriate methods, listening to others and have a positive and respectful attitude
- Focus on quality and problem solving. Follow instructions and guidance, demonstrates attention to detail, follow a logical approach to problem solving and seek opportunities to improve quality, speed and efficiency
- Continuous personal development. Reflect on skills, knowledge and behaviours and seeks opportunities to develop, adapt to different situations, environments or technologies and have a positive attitude to feedback and advice
What will this cost my business?
The introduction of the Apprenticeship Levy in April 2017 has changed the way that government funds apprenticeships in England. All businesses operating within the UK with a wage bill of over £3million are required to contribute to the apprenticeship levy. Speak to an advisor at CI Business Solutions on 01206 712727 to make your levy payments work for you. Non-levy paying employers will need to contribute 5% of the maximum funding band as published by the Skills Funding Agency for the delivery of training and assessment for their apprenticeship. Levy paying employers will pay the full cost of the agreed funding band using their Digital Apprenticeship account. Employers with less than 50 employees who are recruiting an apprentice aged 16-18 years old will not be required to pay the contribution fee. As the largest college provider of apprenticeships in Essex, we can provide expert advice and guidance on all areas of apprenticeship provision, including helping you find the right apprenticeship for your business, recruiting apprentices, quality delivery and assessment with on-going support and advice.
Any associated cost to the individual will be made clear at the interview.
Does the apprentice have to attend college?
College attendance of 2 day per week will be required for year one, with one day per week in years 2/3/4. This will be in conjunction with further assessment in the workplace. Our well-equipped workshops will allow apprentices to carry out practical work in a safe environment.
How is the apprentice assessed?
College based assignments/examinations and accredited qualifications, work placed assessment in competency.
What about support in the workplace?
Skilled and knowledgeable staff must be available to support the apprentice as they complete work- based tasks
Why should I choose Colchester Institute to support my recruitment and retention?
Colchester Institute is the largest college provider of apprenticeships in Greater Essex. We are expert at connecting the right people, to the right training, to the right business and when it comes to Apprenticeships, our Apprenticeship Advisors can support your business every step of the way.
As part of our service we can support your business with:
- Advertising the Apprenticeship vacancy
- Manage the applications received in line with your individual requirements
- Match prospective candidates already known to us
- Conduct initial pre-screening for candidates
- Carry out visits to your premises alongside regular reviews to support you, your staff and your apprentice
- Advice on any grants or funding where available
Our team will provide:
- A fee free recruitment service.
- Personal 1:1 Apprenticeship Levy advice and guidance.
- A dedicated Account Manager.
- Industry experienced, professional, technical tutors.
- Bespoke programmes available upon request.
- An Essex priority skills focus.
- Free employer events.
To apply for an apprenticeship please read through the information below and then select the correct application button from the menu located further down the page.
If you are aged between 15 and 18 years old then please click the button ’15 – 18 Years – Apply Online’ and you will be taken to the next stage of the application process.
If you are aged 19 years or older please click the button ‘19+ Years – How to Apply‘, where you will be taken to the application options and information relevant to you.
Starting employment as an apprentice can occur throughout the year however the start-date for attending college for training, where required, might vary depending on the type of apprenticeship and will be communicated post-employment and sign-up.
| Level | Level 3 |
|---|---|
| Location | Colchester Braintree |
| Duration | 42-48 months to complete |
| Campus | Colchester Campus |
| Apprenticeship Funding Band (Levy paying employers) | £26,000 |
| Employer Contribution Fee (Non-levy paying employers) | £1,300 |
Employer Information
Our Business Solutions team will work with you to recruit an Apprentice to your business, advertising the vacancy and managing applications, as well as providing a dedicated account manager and personal 1:1 advice and guidance on apprenticeships.
What will this cost my Business?
Non-levy paying employers will need to contribute 5% of the maximum funding band as published by the Skills Funding Agency for the delivery of training and assessment for their apprenticeship. Levy paying employers will pay the full cost of the agreed funding band using their Digital Apprenticeship account.
Apprenticeship Funding Bands
Apprenticeship Funding Bands
Employers with less than 50 employees who are recruiting an apprentice aged 16-18 years old will not be required to pay the contribution fee. Any associated cost to the individual will be made clear at the interview.
Disclaimer
All Fees and prices shown on this page are for courses starting in the 2021-22 academic year unless stated otherwise, and are correct at the time of entering/printing information, however these may be subject to change. The College cannot accept legal or financial liability as a result of any such changes.
The course information describes programmes offered by Colchester Institute. The College takes all reasonable steps to provide courses as described, but cannot guarantee provision. The information is for guidance and does not form any part of a contract.
The College reserves the right to update and amend information as and when necessary. Colchester Institute will do its best to provide the courses shown, but may have to modify or withdraw a course depending on customer demand and other factors.
