Level 2 Engineering Operative Apprenticeship – Fabrication & Welding

SMART MANUFACTURING LTD

DEVON (EX39 3HN)

Closes in 15 days (Friday 20 March 2026 at 11:59pm)

Posted on 5 March 2026

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Summary

A Level 2 Engineering Operative apprentice learns the basics of metalworking, including preparing materials, cutting, welding, and assembling components under supervision. They support skilled fabricators, interpret simple drawings, use tools safely, and develop accurate working practices to build a foundation for a career in fabrication and welding.

Wage

£15,311.40 for your first year, then could increase depending on your age

National Minimum Wage rate for apprentices

Check minimum wage rates (opens in new tab)

Training course
Engineering operative (level 2)
Hours
Monday - Thursday: 8:00am - 5:00pm Friday: 8:00am - 1:00pm Total: 39 hours per week

39 hours a week

Start date

Wednesday 8 April 2026

Duration

1 year 6 months

Positions available

3

Work

Most of your apprenticeship is spent working. You’ll learn on the job by getting hands-on experience.

What you'll do at work

What you’ll do at work:

As a Level 2 Fabrication & Welding Apprentice, you’ll gain hands-on experience in a workshop environment. Working alongside skilled fabricators, you will learn how to:

  • Prepare and measure materials
  • Carry out basic cutting and shaping
  • Assist with MIG/TIG welding tasks under supervision
  • Use hand tools and basic workshop machinery
  • Clean, maintain, and organise the workspace
  • Follow safe working practices at all times
  • Support senior fabricators on live projects

Daily tasks may include:

  • Measuring and marking out
  • Grinding, deburring, and finishing
  • Preparing materials for welding
  • Tack welding under supervision
  • Cleaning and maintaining equipment
  • Helping with assembly work
  • Learning techniques to improve accuracy and weld quality

Where you'll work

CLOVELLY ROAD INDUSTRIAL ESTATE
BIDEFORD
DEVON
EX39 3HN

Training

Apprenticeships include time away from working for specialist training. You’ll study to gain professional knowledge and skills.

Training provider

TRAIN'D UP RAILWAY RESOURCING LIMITED

Training course

Engineering operative (level 2)

Understanding apprenticeship levels (opens in new tab)

Training schedule

Engineering Operative Level 2.

The training will take place in a virtual classroom, once per week during term time through an independent training provider - Train’d Up. Assessor site visits will accompany this every 8-12 weeks.

More training information

12-months, plus 6-months EPA.

Requirements

Share if you have other relevant qualifications and industry experience. The apprenticeship can be adjusted to reflect what you already know.

Skills

  • Communication skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Organisation skills
  • Problem solving skills
  • Analytical skills
  • Logical
  • Team working
  • Creative
  • Patience
  • Physical fitness

Other requirements

  • Occasional travel to sites across the UK may be required
  • Predicted grades may be accepted at application stage
  • Final job offer depends on achieving required grades 

About this employer

This apprenticeship is an excellent opportunity to join one of North Devon’s longest-established engineering companies. Smart Manufacturing Ltd is a family-run business known for advanced automated equipment and high-quality engineering solutions.

Founded in 1986, the company operates from a modern 30,000 sq. ft facility and provides services across fabrication, sheet metal, machining, ventilation, dust extraction, and air handling systems. They work with a wide range of industries, including food, pharmaceutical, and high-tech sectors.

Smart Manufacturing prides itself on strong family values—trust, respect, honesty, and loyalty—and is fully accredited to BS EN ISO 9001 standards.

 

https://smart-manufacturing.co.uk/ (opens in new tab)

Company benefits

Future progression to a Level 3 apprenticeship.

After this apprenticeship

After completing the Level 2 apprenticeship, you may progress to:

  • Level 3 Metal Fabricator Apprenticeship
  • Team Leader
  • Shop Floor Supervisor
  • Quality Inspection roles

Ask a question

The contact for this apprenticeship is:

TRAIN'D UP RAILWAY RESOURCING LIMITED

Terri Lennon

Terri.Lennon@traindup.org

07341 092 253

The reference code for this apprenticeship is VAC2000018946.

Apply now

Closes in 15 days (Friday 20 March 2026 at 11:59pm)