Engineering technician
Level 3 · AdvancedEngineering and manufacturing 3.5 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
An Engineering Technician apprenticeship develops the skills to install, test, maintain, and repair engineering systems and equipment across a wide range of industries, from manufacturing to utilities. Apprentices learn to diagnose faults and apply technical knowledge to solve real engineering problems. Completing this standard opens doors to senior technician, supervisor, or further professional engineering qualifications.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Principles of mechanical, electrical, or electronic engineering
Fault-finding and diagnostic techniques
Safe working practices and risk assessment
Reading technical drawings and engineering documentation
Installation and commissioning of engineering systems
Use of specialist tools, instruments, and test equipment
Relevant industry regulations and quality standards
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Install or commission engineering components and systems
Carry out planned and reactive maintenance tasks
Diagnose and repair equipment faults
Complete engineering documentation and work records
Test systems and verify they meet specifications
Liaise with colleagues and supervisors on technical issues
Follow safe working procedures at all times
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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