Apprentice Design Engineer
LOCKMETAL LIMITED
Hemel Hempstead (HP2 7UB)
Closes in 25 days (Friday 31 July 2026 at 11:59pm)
Posted on 6 July 2026
Contents
Summary
Lockmetal Ltd is looking for a motivated and enthusiastic Apprentice Design Technician to join our team. This is an entry-level role designed for someone at the beginning of their career who is eager to learn about design within the construction and manufacturing industry.
- Wage
-
£15,600 for your first year, then could increase depending on your age
National Minimum Wage rate for apprentices
- Training course
- Engineering operative (level 2)
- Hours
-
Monday - Friday, 9am - 5pm.
37 hours 30 minutes a week
- Start date
-
Monday 5 October 2026
- Duration
-
1 year
- 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
Key Responsibilities
- Support the design and project teams with day-to-day tasks and project work
- Assist in creating and updating design drawings using CAD software (training will be provided)
- Learn how to interpret design briefs, technical information, and project requirements
- Help maintain organised and accurate design files and documentation
- Work collaboratively with colleagues, asking questions and learning from experienced team members
- Assist with basic project administration tasks and preparation of documents
- Attend design meetings and occasional site visits to build understanding of projects
- Gradually support more technical tasks such as drawing revisions, take-offs, and specifications as skills develop
What We’re Looking For
- A strong willingness to learn and develop new skills
- Good communication and teamwork skills
- A positive, reliable, and proactive approach to work
- Attention to detail and a willingness to take pride in your work
- Basic IT skills (e.g., Microsoft Office); interest in CAD/design software is a bonus
- Ability to follow instructions and manage time effectively
- An interest in construction, design, or engineering
Where you'll work
Noble House
Eaton Road, Hemel Hempstead Industrial Estate
Hemel Hempstead
HP2 7UB
Training
Apprenticeships include time away from working for specialist training. You’ll study to gain professional knowledge and skills.
Training provider
NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE COLLEGE
Training course
Engineering operative (level 2)
Understanding apprenticeship levels (opens in new tab)
Training schedule
This apprenticeship is taught over 12 months. You’ll gradually increase the amount of days working on-the-job as you progress through your learning journey and develop your understanding.
Months 1-3 (3 days a week in college)
You’ll learn the essentials of engineering:
- Staying safe at work
- Working efficiently
- Reading drawings
- Using tools and equipment
- Understanding engineering workplaces
Months 4-6 (2 days a week in college)
You’ll start to move into a specialist pathway:
Manufacturing / Mechanical:
- Machining
- Assembly
- Surface finishing
- Business improvement
Electrical / Mechanical:
- Electrical principles
- Electrical testing
- Mechanical assemblies
- Project planning
Months 7 – 9 (1 day a week in college)
You’ll complete your specialist units and start preparing for assessment:
- More advanced workshop tasks
- Project work
- Revision and consolidation
Months 10-12 (full-time in the workplace)
- Build your portfolio
- Demonstrate your skills
- Work with your mentor
- Prepare for your Apprenticeship Assessment.
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
- IT skills
- Attention to detail
- Organisation skills
- Customer care skills
- Problem solving skills
- Administrative skills
- Number skills
- Analytical skills
- Logical
- Team working
- Creative
- Initiative
- Non judgemental
- Patience
- Physical fitness
Other requirements
Must be able to commute between Hemel Hempstead for work and Stevenage for apprenticeship training. Driving is also advantageous for this reason and for future career progression.
About this employer
Lockmetal Ltd is a leading specialist in statement cladding design, supply, and installation, delivering major projects across London and the surrounding areas. We pride ourselves on quality, innovation, and developing our people to achieve their full potential.
https://www.lockmetal.com/ (opens in new tab)
Company benefits
- Structured training and development
- Opportunity to progress within the company
- Supportive team environment
After this apprenticeship
Your earnings can increase over time with an apprenticeship. Find out about potential future pay (opens in new tab).
This apprenticeship is designed to provide a structured pathway into a Design Technician role. As your skills grow, you will have the opportunity to gain experience using industry-standard design software (e.g. AutoCAD), take on more responsibility for producing drawings and technical information, support project delivery from design through to production, and develop knowledge of construction processes, materials, and standards.
Ask a question
The contact for this apprenticeship is:
NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE COLLEGE
The reference code for this apprenticeship is VAC2000039888.
Apply now
Closes in 25 days (Friday 31 July 2026 at 11:59pm)