Digital engineering technician
Level 3 · AdvancedConstruction and the built environment 3 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
Digital engineering technicians support engineers in designing, modelling, and documenting engineering systems and assets using digital tools such as CAD software and BIM platforms. You will produce technical drawings, 3D models, and digital documentation that teams rely on to build and maintain complex projects. The role exists across sectors including construction, manufacturing, energy, and rail.
On the job
What you’ll learn
2D and 3D CAD software for engineering design and draughting
Building information modelling (BIM) standards and workflows
Engineering drawing standards, conventions, and tolerancing
Data management: file naming, version control, and document control
Basic engineering principles relevant to your sector
Collaborative digital working across multidisciplinary project teams
Quality checking of digital models and drawings
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Produce 2D engineering drawings from design specifications or sketches
Build and update 3D models in CAD or BIM software
Check drawings for errors and ensure they meet project standards
Manage and issue drawings using document control systems
Coordinate model files with other engineering disciplines
Attend design reviews and update models based on feedback
Archive completed drawing sets at project handover
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 3 (Advanced) - roughly A-level level. Employers usually look for some GCSEs (often English & maths around grade 4/C) or a Level 2 apprenticeship first. English & maths can sometimes be finished during training.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 4/5 (Higher) apprenticeship, or straight into the role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
No employer videos yet for this apprenticeship. Employers offering it can add one to show young people what the role is really like.