Production Operative Apprentice

FREDERICK COOPER (BIRMINGHAM) LTD

Birmingham (B9 4TS)

Closes on Friday 29 May 2026

Posted on 17 February 2026

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Summary

Want to kick-start a successful career in the manufacturing sector? This role provides the chance to gain hands-on experience and develop specialist skills across a variety of areas, including parts preparation, wet paint spraying, powder coating, polishing, quality inspection and other duties.

Wage

£16,354 a year

Check minimum wage rates (opens in new tab)

Training course
Lean manufacturing operative (level 2)
Hours
Monday - Thursday 07.00- 15.30 Friday 07.00-12.00

37 hours a week

Start date

Tuesday 15 September 2026

Duration

1 year

Positions available

6

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

Day-to-day tasks include:

  • Work from job-specific processes and follow work instructions
  • Follow instructions without deviation unless instructed to do so by a supervisor
  • Where required, keep records and fill out paperwork accurately
  • Ensure quality standards and safety on the shopfloor are adhered to
  • Set up, prepare, check and set-down own work area
  • Check own equipment issued ahead of starting and finishing a job
  • Receive, handle and maintain consumables, jigs, parts and tool provided
  • Adhere to company standard operating procedures (SOP'S)
  • Keep a tidy work area including basic maintenance of machines / tools
  • Participate in all company training programs and team briefing sessions
  • Working in different areas throughout the factory to suit production needs
  • If required, to work additional hours over and above normal working hours to achieve targets
  • Carry out any reasonable request from a senior member of staff
  • Carry out task related duties related to the role within the maintenance team and business

Where you'll work

51 Bordesley Green
Birmingham
B9 4TS

Training

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

Training provider

IN-COMM TRAINING AND BUSINESS SERVICES LIMITED

Training course

Lean manufacturing operative (level 2)

Understanding apprenticeship levels (opens in new tab)

Training schedule

  • Level 2 Lean Manufacturing Apprenticeship delivered over a period of 12 months
  • All training will be held on site at the company
  • The successful candidate will complete their Lean Manufacturing Operative Level 2 Apprenticeship qualification
  • Dependent upon prior qualifications learners may also need to complete functional skills in maths and English

More training information

Please note the vacancy start date is August 2026 at the company. Training for the qualification will start in September 2026.

Requirements

Essential qualifications

GCSE in:

  • English (grade 4)
  • Maths (grade 4)

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
  • Team working
  • Physical fitness
  • Willingness to learn
  • Positive attitude
  • Mature attitude

Other requirements

Apprentice must be able to travel to the company for the required start time. A high level of attention to detail is required for this role as all tasks must be completed to a high standard. Candidate must be physically fit as the job role includes lifting and carry heavy items at times. Please inform your interviewer if you are Asthmatic or colourblind.

About this employer

Frederick Cooper is the trusted provider of specialist Wet Paint Spraying and Powder Coating solutions to the Automotive and other sectors worldwide. Since 1879 there has been a finishing company based in the Bordesley Green area of Birmingham. Initially operating as Metal Finishing Specialists, in 1982 the current owners took over and the company became known as Frederick Cooper Birmingham Ltd. Frederick Cooper is committed to being a sustainable company; effectively managing our resources to consistently deliver an excellent service, whilst providing a rewarding and enjoyable experience for all. We take corporate and social responsibility for our business activities with our people, community and environment in mind.

https://www.frederickcooper.co.uk/ (opens in new tab)

Company benefits

  • On-site "The Hub" facilities and vending machines
  • Parking on site
  • Regular social staff events
  • Employee rewards and recognition

After this apprenticeship

  • Potential to have a full time position at FCB and progress within the organisation from general operator to prepper / polisher / paint sprayer /powder coater or quality inspector. Further progression into leadership / management

Ask a question

The contact for this apprenticeship is:

IN-COMM TRAINING AND BUSINESS SERVICES LIMITED

The reference code for this apprenticeship is VAC2000014881.

Apply now

Closes on Friday 29 May 2026