Apprentice Mechanical Engineering Technician
PRECISE COMPONENT MANUFACTURE LTD
MARCH (PE15 0BL)
Closes on Tuesday 31 March 2026
Posted on 13 January 2026
Contents
Summary
Join this hands-on apprenticeship in Precision Manufacturing! Working alongside skilled engineers, getting experience across CNC machining, manual machining and advanced finishing techniques while studying towards a recognised qualification. This is a rare opportunity to build a long-term career within a high-quality engineering environment.
- Wage
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£16,640 a year
Check minimum wage rates (opens in new tab)
You’ll have access to extra rewards and benefits. This includes the MyCI bonus scheme, where you can earn up to £1,000 per quarter based on performance above and beyond, which is decided by peer voting.
- Training course
- Engineering technician (level 3)
- Hours
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Monday to Thursday 07:30am- 4:15pm, Fridays 07:30am- 3:00pm.
40 hours a week
- Start date
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Tuesday 1 September 2026
- Duration
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4 years
- Positions available
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2
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
This role is ideal if you’re leaving school and looking to start a hands-on career rather than staying in the classroom full time or if you are looking for a change of career. Your day will be a mix of practical work and learning, with plenty of support from experienced engineers who will guide you every step of the way.
On a typical day or week, you’ll be learning.
- How to use workshop machinery.
- Helping to set up and operate manual and CNC machines.
- Assisting with assembling and finishing precision-engineered parts.
- You’ll be shown how to check parts for quality.
- Follow engineering drawings.
- How to work safely in a professional engineering environment.
You’ll also attend college as part of your apprenticeship and have regular reviews to help you build confidence, develop new skills, and track your progress. Over time, you’ll take on more responsibility as your knowledge grows, working towards becoming a fully qualified Mechanical Engineering Technician.
Where you'll work
UNIT 2
FENLAND BUSINESS CENTRE
LONGHILL ROAD
MARCH
PE15 0BL
Training
Apprenticeships include time away from working for specialist training. You’ll study to gain professional knowledge and skills.
Training provider
THE COLLEGE OF WEST ANGLIA
Training course
Engineering technician (level 3)
Understanding apprenticeship levels (opens in new tab)
Training schedule
On successful completion, the apprentice will achieve a Level 3 Engineering Technician qualification and the Engineering Technician Apprenticeship Standard.
Training will be delivered through a combination of work-based learning at PCML and college-based training. The apprentice will receive structured on-the-job training and mentoring from experienced engineers, developing skills in:
- Manual machining (milling and turning)
- CNC machining (milling and turning)
- Mechanical assembly
- EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining)
- Finishing processes (deburring, lapping, ENP, bead blasting)
- Production engineering (CAD/CAM)
College training will be completed on a day-release basis (one day per week). The apprentice will be assigned a college assessor who will visit the workplace to assess competence and a workplace mentor who will coach and support their development.
The apprenticeship also includes the completion of the End Point Assessment (EPA), which typically comprises a knowledge test, practical assessment, and professional discussion to demonstrate full occupational competence.
Practical training and learning components include:
- EAL Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (Foundation Competence) Level 2.
- EAL Diploma in Machining (Foundation Knowledge) Level 2.
- EAL Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering Machining (Development Competence) Level 3.
- EAL Diploma in Machining (Development Knowledge) Level 3.
- Functional Skills in Maths and English Level 2.
Requirements
Essential qualifications
GCSE in:
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
- Number skills
- Team working
- Interest in engineering
- Good literacy
- Willingness to learn
- Time aware
- Motivated & resilient
- Reliable & punctual
- Safety conscious
- Flexible & adaptable
Other requirements
A few things to keep in mind about this role:
- You’ll be working in a busy engineering workshop, so it can get noisy at times.
- The role is hands-on, which means standing for long periods, using machinery, and sometimes lifting or moving parts and materials safely.
- You’ll need to follow health & safety rules at all times and wear the correct protective equipment.
About this employer
PCML has been creating precision metal parts for over 20 years. We work with industries like motorsport, defence, medical devices, and cutting-edge technology, turning ideas and prototypes into real, working products. Across our sites, we have approximately 110 employees and around 68 machines, including 2 robot loaders and a 32-pallet automated milling machine, giving you the chance to work with some of the most advanced equipment in the industry.
At PCML, you’ll be part of a team that values learning, innovation, and teamwork. You’ll get hands-on experience, learn from skilled engineers, and see your work used in real-world projects that make a difference. We invest in our people, offering opportunities to develop skills, take on responsibility, and grow your career.
http://www.pcml.net (opens in new tab)
Company benefits
Enrolment onto the company health scheme - Healthshield (following successful probation).
After this apprenticeship
This apprenticeship is your first step into an exciting engineering career. Once qualified, you could move into roles such as CNC Programmer, Production Engineer, Quality Technician, or Senior Technician. As you gain experience, there are opportunities to become a team leader, supervisor, or specialise further in areas like CAD/CAM, precision finishing, production planning, or quality management.
Ask a question
The contact for this apprenticeship is:
THE COLLEGE OF WEST ANGLIA
The reference code for this apprenticeship is VAC2000008460.
Apply now
Closes on Tuesday 31 March 2026