Engineering Operative Apprentice
C.D.R. PUMPS UK LTD
3 Morris Close (NN8 6XF)
Closes on Sunday 14 June 2026
Posted on 13 May 2026
Contents
Summary
CDR Pumps in Wellingborough are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Engineering Apprentice to join their team. You will provide hands-on experience in the maintenance, repair, and build of industrial pump systems, supporting customer operations across high-specification environments, including top-tier COMAH sites.
- Wage
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£16,500 a year
- Training course
- Engineering operative (level 2)
- Hours
-
Monday – Thursday 08.30 – 17.00 and Friday 08.30 – 15.00 (with half an hour lunch each day).
38 hours a week
- Start date
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Tuesday 1 September 2026
- Duration
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2 years
- Positions available
-
1
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
Please look at the employer website https://www.cdrpumps.co.uk/ to find out more about this employer.
The role is ideal for individuals looking to build a strong foundation in mechanical engineering, machining, and maintenance practices within a fast-paced, safety-critical environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist with the maintenance, repair, and build of pump systems, including stripping, inspection, rebuilding, and performance testing in line with engineering specifications.
- Support fault finding, diagnostics, and failure analysis of pumps and associated components, progressively taking on greater responsibility.
- Carry out component manufacturing and machining tasks, including turning, milling, drilling, and minor modifications using manual machinery (e.g. lathes).
- Participate in the assembly, alignment, and installation of rotating equipment, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
- Undertake minor fabrication and welding tasks under supervision where required.
- Maintain high standards of workshop safety, housekeeping, and compliance with company and regulatory requirements.
Systems & Documentation:
- Ensure full traceability of components, materials, and processes throughout the repair and manufacturing lifecycle.
- Accurately record all work using the company’s ERP system (SAGE), keeping records up to date.
- Assist with technical documentation, reporting, and basic design updates, including the use of AutoCAD where applicable.
Working Environment:
- Support engineering operations servicing top-tier COMAH sites, adhering to strict safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
- Work closely with experienced engineers, gaining exposure to best practices across multiple engineering disciplines.
Expectations:
- Demonstrate a strong willingness to learn and develop practical engineering skills.
- Work methodically with attention to detail, particularly in documentation and traceability.
- Follow instructions while progressively developing independence, initiative, and problem-solving ability.
- Maintain high standards of professionalism, punctuality, and safety awareness.
- Contribute to continuous improvement within the workshop environment.
Skills & Attributes:
- Interest in mechanical engineering and manufacturing processes.
- Basic understanding of (or willingness to learn) machining techniques such as turning and milling.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
- IT literacy, with an interest in ERP systems and CAD software.
Training & Development:
- Structured on-the-job training combined with a Level 2
- Engineering Operative apprenticeship qualification.
- Exposure to a wide range of engineering disciplines and real-world industrial applications.
- Ongoing support and mentorship from experienced engineers.
- Long-term career progression opportunities, including potential pathways into technical, sales, or commercial roles.
Summary:
This apprenticeship offers a comprehensive introduction to engineering within a specialist pump service environment. The successful candidate will gain valuable, transferable skills while contributing to high-quality service delivery in critical industrial sectors, with clear opportunities for long-term career development.
Where you'll work
3 Morris Close
NN8 6XF
Training
Apprenticeships include time away from working for specialist training. You’ll study to gain professional knowledge and skills.
Training provider
BEDFORD COLLEGE
Training course
Engineering operative (level 2)
Understanding apprenticeship levels (opens in new tab)
Training schedule
- Level 2 Engineering Operative - Mechanical Manufacturing Pathway.
- Functional Skills in English or maths if required.
Requirements
Desirable qualifications
GCSE in:
- English (grade 9 - 3)
- maths (grade 9 - 3)
Share if you have other relevant qualifications and industry experience. The apprenticeship can be adjusted to reflect what you already know.
Skills
- communication skills
- Enthusiastic
- team player
- Hard working
- IT skills
Other requirements
Other Information: Candidates must attend an initial interview with a member of the Bedford College Apprenticeship Recruitment Team. Please note this is part of the recruitment process and must be completed in order for your application to be progressed to the next stage. Please consider how you will get to work and college which will the Corby Campus starting in September.
About this employer
Independent Chemical Pumps Manufacturer
CDR Pumps designs and manufactures robust chemical process pumps for the chemical, nuclear, pharmaceutical and other industrial sectors, with over 60 years of expertise and a UK presence since 1998.
After this apprenticeship
Looking to sustain the individual to remain as an engineer on the shop floor or to support customers as part of the sales team on completion of the apprenticeship.
Ask a question
The contact for this apprenticeship is:
BEDFORD COLLEGE
The reference code for this apprenticeship is VAC2000031440.
Apply now
Closes on Sunday 14 June 2026
After signing in, you’ll apply for this apprenticeship on the company's website.