Design Engineering Apprentice

Summary

An exciting opportunity to join Spaans Babcock Limited as an Engineering Operative Apprentice. You will work alongside experienced engineers, developing practical and technical skills across mechanical engineering, CAD, engineering documentation and project support whilst completing a recognised Level 2 Engineering Operative Apprenticeship.

Yearly Wage

Up to £18,000 per annum

Minimum wage rates (opens in new tab)

The pay may be negotiated and may rise after a probation period has been successfully completed.

Training course

Engineering Operative Level 2

Hours

Monday to Friday

8.00am – 4.00pm

37.5 hours per week.

The role is predominantly office-based, with some planned visits to customer and project sites when required.

Duration

24 Months

Positions available

Work

As an apprentice, you’ll work at a company and get hands-on experience. You’ll gain new skills and work alongside experienced staff.

What you’ll do at work

As an Engineering Operative Apprentice, you will become part of the engineering team, supporting the design, specification and development of mechanical equipment used within the wastewater and hydro-electric generation sectors.

The role is predominantly office-based, although you will have the opportunity to attend planned site visits when required. You will gain valuable experience working on real engineering projects and develop your technical knowledge with support from experienced engineers.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is keen to begin a career in engineering and is enthusiastic about developing their technical skills in a professional engineering environment.

Key Responsibilities

Assist with the design and specification of mechanical components and equipment.
Support the design of bearing assemblies, guards, lubrication systems and other mechanical components.
Help produce, amend and update engineering drawings using AutoCAD or similar CAD software.
Support engineers with the preparation of equipment layouts and lifting arrangements.
Assist with inspections and technical assessments of screw pumps and associated mechanical equipment.
Help compile technical reports, specifications and engineering documentation.
Obtain quotations from suppliers for repairs, refurbishment work and replacement parts.
Assist with organising project information and documentation.
Support the ordering of materials and engineering components.
Develop an understanding of engineering standards and technical requirements.
Learn about health and safety requirements and quality procedures.
Attend planned site visits when required.
Work collaboratively with engineers, suppliers and other members of the project team.
Contribute ideas to improve processes and ways of working.
Carry out other duties appropriate to the role and level of training.

Where you’ll work

Spaans Babcock Ltd, 305 Phoenix Close, Heywood, OL10 2JG

Training

An apprenticeship includes regular training with a college or other training organisation. At least 20% of your working hours will be spent training or studying.

College or training organisation

ROCHDALE TRAINING ASSOCIATION LIMITED

Your training course

Engineering Operative Level 2

Your training plan

You will complete the Level 2 Engineering Operative Apprenticeship through Rochdale Training Association.

The apprenticeship will support the development of skills and knowledge in areas including:

Engineering principles and practices.
Engineering drawings and technical documentation.
Mechanical components and systems.
Engineering materials and manufacturing processes.
Quality assurance and inspection.
Health and safety in engineering.
Engineering operations and processes.
Using engineering tools, equipment and technology.
Professional engineering behaviours.

You will receive regular support from your training provider alongside ongoing mentoring and development from experienced engineers at Spaans Babcock Limited.

Requirements

Essential qualifications

Essential
An interest in engineering, mechanical design or manufacturing.
GCSE Grade 4/C or above in English and Maths, or equivalent, is desirable.
Willingness to complete the Level 2 Engineering Operative Apprenticeship.
Desirable
Previous engineering work experience or work placement.
Experience using AutoCAD or other CAD software.
A relevant engineering qualification or experience from college, school or personal projects.

Let the company know about other relevant qualifications and industry experience you have. They can adjust the apprenticeship to reflect what you already know.

Skills

An interest in engineering and mechanical design.
Good attention to detail.
A methodical approach to work.
Good organisational skills.
Strong communication skills.
Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
Ability to manage time and organise tasks.
Basic computer skills.
Willingness to learn new technical skills.
A genuine interest in developing a career in engineering.

Other requirements

Enthusiastic and motivated.
Curious and eager to learn.
Positive attitude.
Reliable and punctual.
Hardworking.
Organised.
Methodical.
Team-focused.
Professional.
Confident asking questions and seeking support when required.

About this company

Spaans Babcock Limited is a specialist engineering company operating within the wastewater and hydro-electric generation sectors. The company forms part of an international group with over 120 years of engineering expertise.

This is an excellent opportunity for an enthusiastic individual to begin a career in engineering, gaining valuable hands-on experience while working alongside experienced engineers on real projects.

As an apprentice, you will benefit from structured training, mentoring and exposure to a wide range of engineering activities, including mechanical design, technical documentation, equipment inspections and project support.

After this apprenticeship

Successful completion of the apprenticeship could lead to a permanent engineering position within Spaans Babcock Limited.

Future opportunities may include progression into roles such as: