Metrology technician
Level 3 · AdvancedHealth and science 3 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
Metrology technicians measure and inspect components and products to verify they meet precise engineering tolerances and quality standards. Apprentices learn to use coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), gauges, and optical instruments in manufacturing quality environments. The role is essential in aerospace, automotive, medical devices, and precision engineering.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Principles of measurement including uncertainty and traceability
Operating CMMs, surface measurement, and optical instruments
Reading engineering drawings and geometric tolerancing (GD&T)
Calibration methods and understanding of metrology standards
Statistical process control and sampling techniques
Reporting non-conformances and working with quality systems
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Measure components using CMMs and precision gauging
Interpret engineering drawings and tolerance specifications
Calibrate measuring instruments and maintain calibration records
Analyse measurement data and produce inspection reports
Identify out-of-tolerance parts and raise non-conformance reports
Support production teams with measurement advice
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
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