Typical duration to gateway: 42 months
Delivery: Weekly day release and off-the-job training
Delivery Location: East Coast College – Lowestoft Campus
Machining Technicians: Operating and Maintaining Machinery to Fabricate Precision Parts and Components
Machining Technicians specialise in producing bespoke components or products for domestic appliances or medical equipment, as well as complex components for machinery such as vehicles and aeroplanes. As a machining technician, you will use a variety of machines to carry out your work such as centre lathes, vertical and horizontal milling machines and horizontal and cylindrical grinding machines. This also includes inspecting finished parts for quality, performing routine maintenance and ensuring safety and efficiency in the production process.
This role typically reports to an engineering or manufacturing team leader. This would be as part of a defined or cross functional team and may also interact with customers, suppliers, colleagues, quality auditors and regulators.
Course Content:
- Set up, operate, and adjust conventional machines
- Prove and validate CNC machining equipment settings and programs for the machine tool being used
- Machine high-quality complex components using a broad range of processes
- Inspect components produced and adjust the machining equipment or program and tooling to ensure components meet quality requirements
- Perform scheduled daily inspection and machine shut down/safe isolation
- Complete machining documentation at all stages of the work activity
Entry Requirements:
- GCSE grade 4 or Level 2 Functional Skills in English and Maths
If you do not possess these grades, you will need to achieve this level prior to taking the End Point Assessment.
Progression Opportunities:
- Level 4 Engineering Manufacturing Technician Apprenticeship Standard
- Specialising in advanced CNC machines: Learn to operate complex CNC machines like multi-axis mills, wire EDM, or laser cutting machines.
- CNC Programming: You can develop skills in CAD/CAM software to create CNC programs for complex parts.
- Supervisory roles: Become a machine shop lead, overseeing a team of machinists and ensuring production efficiency.
Contact Us:
Contact our Apprenticeships Team to find out when our next course start date is.
If you already have an employer for your apprenticeship or would like more information on how to find an apprenticeship, please click Apply Now.