Machining Technician Apprenticeship

Reporting to the Head of Learning, Development & Safety, the successful candidates complete a structured apprenticeship programme to develop highly skilled machine operators within a growing manufacturing environment.

Duties will include:

Setting and operating CNC mills and lathes Learning and understanding how to set parameters on CNC mills and lathes Operating laser cutting machines Setting and operating CNC press brake machinery Learning CNC machining principles and machine operation Operating and programming robotic welding systems Working safely in accordance with health & safety legislation Reading and interpreting engineering drawings Conducting routine machine maintenance and safety checks Measuring and inspecting components to quality standards Apprentices will rotate through multiple departments and receive mentoring from experienced engineers, technicians and highly skilled operators

Training:

The candidate will follow a Level 3 Apprenticeship programme and study towards a full standard as a metal fabricator. This training will be structured and delivered by Cheshire College – South & West. If you do not already hold GCSEs at grades A-D / 8-4 in English and maths, you will complete Functional Skills in the related subjects to attain Level 2 Functional Skills.

Training Outcome:

To become a full-time and highly skilled member of the team following on from successful completion of the apprenticeship.

Employer Description:

Newfield Fabrication is a well-established company, with a 60+ year track record, with a highly experienced team who are keen to pass on their valuable skills to the next generation of machining technicians. During National Apprenticeship week in 2025 and 2026, the firm scooped top accolades at Cheshire College – South & West’s annual apprenticeship awards. Named as the college’s New Apprenticeship Employer of the Year 2025, and the college’s Large Employer of the Year 2026, the firm was recognised for the comprehensive training programme and support which has been implemented to train the company’s welding workforce of the future. Newfield’s work is used around the world in a range of dynamic industries, from automotive and defence to nuclear and power generation. The team offer a range of services including fabrication, engineering and design, robotic welding, CNC machining and laser cutting. It’s recognised as an industry leader in its fields and a trusted manufacturing partner to companies all over the world including Caterpillar, JCB, Scania and Leyland Trucks. Their Sandbach premises are home to the latest, cutting-edge equipment and technology, providing an ideal training ground for apprenticeships and the future stars of the workforce. The company, which more recently spent upwards of £1.2m on two pieces of equipment, has many team members who have worked for the firm for several decades. They are now poised ready to pass on their knowledge to the apprentice cohort. The company is accredited to ISO 9001 and IATF 16949 and welding accreditations to ISO 9606-1 and BS EN ISO 15614-1. The company mission is to exceed our customer expectations by providing the highest quality, value for money, support and service. This will be achieved by being innovative through continual investment in the latest technology, our people and processes.

Working Hours :
Monday to Thursday: 7.30am-4.30pm. Friday: 7.30am-12.30pm. Day shifts only.

Skills:
Attention to detail,Problem solving skills,Team working,Ability to use own initiative,Time management,Honest,Reliable,Good time-keeper,Personable,Polite