Apprentice Mechanical Technician - Department of Engineering Science

You will work as an Apprentice Mechanical Technician. You will be required to complete a three-and-a-half-year training programme that will cover all aspects of the role delivered through in-house training, alongside day-release or other distance learning methods delivered by Abingdon & Witney college.

The apprenticeship includes an exciting opportunity to work across all the different mechanical workshops in the Engineering Department, workshops which support research in biomedical, turbo machinery, materials testing and various other areas of research. The university supports travel to different sites as required.

Hazard-specific / Safety-critical duties.

This job includes the following hazard-specific or safety-critical duties that will require successful pre-employment health screening through our Occupational Health Department before the successful candidate can commence work:

Work with sensitisers/work requiring health surveillance. Regular manual handling. Safety-critical work (refer to the Hazards' checklist for specific examples).

All tasks will be at a level appropriate to the apprentice’s developing skills, under the guidance of the Head of Workshop.

All skill areas will involve the identification, planning and performing of mechanical technician tasks across the Department, including the operation of specialist machinery. The apprentice will also support all aspects of the day-to-day running of the workshop. The apprentice will be supervised at all times when in workshops.

Key Duties:

Learn to use a wide range of machine tools, including three-axis CNC/manual milling machines and two-axis CNC/manual lathes. Learn to use a wide range of workshop equipment, including precision measuring instruments, lathes, milling machines, grinders, power saws, hand tools and sheet metal equipment. Assist with preparing drawings from sketches and discussions with researchers using Computer Aided Design (CAD) programs. Take stage-by-stage instructions from an experienced workshop technician in order to complete basic technician tasks independently. Liaise with staff in other workshops to develop confidence and interpersonal skills. Engage with academics, researchers, staff and students to offer advice on potential engineering solutions. Update/maintain a logbook of work/projects carried out in line with the requirements of the apprenticeship. Support students in taught sessions, where appropriate. Support Outreach and STEM activities, as well as University Open days. Assist with maintaining, servicing, and repairing workshop machinery and equipment when required. Check and maintain operating efficiency and cleanliness of tools, apparatus and workshop premises. Comply with Health & Safety procedures and work in a safe manner. Understand and record time and materials used on projects. Log details from customers and assist with providing quotes. Answer telephone calls, emails, handle routine enquiries and take messages as required. Meet at regular intervals with the head of the workshop to monitor progress. Attend training college to ensure that the required academic levels are achieved, and are on target to finish the course within the agreed time.

Training:

You will complete the L2 Engineering Operative Apprenticeship Standard as below: 

Duration:

13 months practical training period, plus 3 months for End Point Assessment

Delivery model:

Work-based training with your employer Day release during term time (approximately 2 days a week for 1 year) Regular meetings with your training coordinator to monitor progress and well-being Off-the-job training will count for at least 6 hours a week of an apprentice’s time at work

Qualifications included:

Level 2 Diploma in Engineering Operations (Skills) Level 2 Certificate in Engineering Operations (Knowledge) Level 2 Engineering Operative Apprenticeship

End Point Assessment:

Practical assessment  Professional discussion

This will be followed by the L3 Engineering Fitter Apprenticeship Standard on successful completion of level 2.

Training Outcome:

Over 80% of our apprentices continue with us in the role they have been trained for after their apprenticeship and that is just the start of their career.

Employer Description:
We are the largest employer in Oxfordshire with around 16,000 staff working in and around Oxford in a huge range of roles. Our apprentices are never on their own and will benefit from a supportive environment working in collaboration with the rest of our committed team. You will also be supported by the central apprenticeship team and you will join our growing network of apprentices within the university. You will have the opportunity to become an apprenticeship ambassador for the University and region. We will provide you with a welcoming and inclusive workplace, offering support and development opportunities that will enable you to progress and do your best work. We recognise diversity as our strength, vital for innovation and creativity, and we aspire to build a truly diverse community, which values and respects every individual’s unique contribution.

Working Hours :
Monday-Friday, 36.5hrs pw. Regular weekday hours are to be confirmed. This is a 16-month Level 2 apprenticeship, moving on to a further Level 3 apprenticeship within a 3.5-year fixed term employment contract.

Skills:
Communication skills,IT skills,Attention to detail,Problem solving skills,Logical,Willing to learn new skills,Safety conscious,Positive attitude,Strong work ethic,Passion for engineering