Engineering Design Apprentice

  • Company: DALES FABRICATION LTD
  • Location: DERBYS, DE7 4BG
  • Type: Apprenticeship
  • Salary: Apprenticeship Minimum Wage
  • Sector: Engineering and manufacturing
  • Ref: NAS-2000037161
  • Application Deadline Date: 30/06/2026
  • Start Date: 17/08/2026
  • Positions Available: 2
  • Working Week: Monday to Thursday - 7.00am - 3.30pm, Friday, 7.00am - 12.30pm 30 minutes lunch break.

Brief Description

Dales Fabrications Ltd are offering an exciting opportunity for two apprentices to join our established manufacturing business and begin a long-term career in engineering. This apprenticeship will provide hands-on experience across both design and manufacturing, with a structured pathway into our Production Processing department.

Training to be Provided


  • You will spend 4 days each week working alongside and learning from skilled professionals, and 1 day each week training at Derby College's Roundhouse campus

Future Prospects


  • Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship, there is the opportunity to progress into a Production Processor role within the business

  • This role involves producing detailed CAD drawings and manufacturing instructions, supporting the delivery of bespoke aluminium systems

  • We actively invest in our people, and this apprenticeship can also lead to further study, including a degree in Manufacturing Engineering

  • Our current Head of Production began his career with us as an apprentice and now leads the department, demonstrating the long-term opportunities available

Vacancy Detail

You will gain experience across multiple departments to develop a full understanding of our manufacturing processes:


Production Processing (2 days per week)



  • Learn CAD/CAM design techniques (2D and 3D)

  • Produce manufacturing drawings

  • Understand how designs are translated into production


Manufacturing (2 days per week) - You will rotate every 3 months between:



  • Powder coating on our Syntha Pulvin approved paint line

  • Factory operations including cutting, sawing, punching, bending and fabrication


College (1 day per week)



  • Attend Derby College to complete your qualification


This rotation will continue for at least the first two years, giving you a strong foundation in both practical and technical skills.

Other Information


  • Early start times (07:00)

  • Physically active role within a manufacturing environment

  • Commitment to both workplace learning and college study

Ready to start your adventure?