Apprentice Engineering Technician
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Company: SOUTH MIDLANDS COMMUNICATIONS CO LTD
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Location: EASTLEIGH, SO53 4BY
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Type: Apprenticeship
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Salary: £18,000.00 per year
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Sector: Engineering and manufacturing
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Ref: NAS-2000023652
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Application Deadline Date: 01/05/2026
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Start Date: 07/09/2026
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Positions Available: 2
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Working Week: Monday to Thursday 07:00 - 16:00. Friday 07:30 - 12:00. A total of 38.5-hours per week.
Brief Description
The Southampton Engineering Training Association (SETA) is supporting SMC Group recruit an Apprentice Engineering Technician to join their production team and develop within the company. This is an entry-level role designed to provide structured training, hands-on experience and a recognised qualification in manufacturing production.
Training to be Provided
Apprentices will undertake a Level 3 Engineering Fitter Apprenticeship Standard programme. This will include a full-time period of practical workshop based ‘off-the-job’ training at SETA’s Apprenticeship Centre in Southampton.
You will also undertake a knowledge qualification (depending on your prior attainments) where you will be required to attend SETA one day a week over two academic years. After your initial training at SETA, you will be with your employer working on developing your skills in relation to your job role.
Future Prospects
After successfully completing the apprenticeship, the apprentice would be offered a permanent role within the production team, subject to performance. This provides a strong foundation to build long-term experience within the business.
With increased experience and demonstrated competence, individuals can develop into a Senior Production Technician role, taking on greater responsibility, supporting complex tasks, and acting as a key point of knowledge within the team.
There may also be opportunities to progress into a Team Leader position should vacancies arise over time. In this role, individuals would take on supervisory responsibilities, including coordinating day-to-day activities, supporting team performance, and contributing to operational improvements.
In addition to formal progression, experienced technicians can further develop by mentoring new apprentices, playing an active role in training and knowledge sharing for future intakes. This provides a valuable leadership pathway and helps build coaching and supervisory skills.
Overall, the apprenticeship provides a strong platform for long-term career development, with opportunities to grow in responsibility, contribute to team success, and take on leadership or mentoring roles over time.
Vacancy Detail
You will learn how to work safely, follow procedures, produce quality products and maintain high workplace standards. Throughout the apprenticeship, you will be expected to demonstrate a strong commitment to health & safety, quality, housekeeping, and continuous improvement.
Key responsibilities and accountabilities will include:
Learning & Development:
- Completing a recognised apprenticeship qualifying in manufacturing production
- Actively engaging in learning activities and applying learning in the workplace
- Working towards achieving required competencies, skills and behaviours within agreed timescales
Manufacturing & Production Support:
- Supporting production activities under supervision, including assembly, preparation, and basic operation of equipment
- Following work instructions, Standard Operations Procedures, and technical guidance accurately
- Assisting in the assembly of products in line with quality and safety standards
- Supporting colleagues and Team Leaders to meet production schedules
Quality & ISO Awareness:
- Learning and applying ISO 9001 quality principles, including right first-time production and traceability
- Carrying out basic quality checks, once trained to do so
- Completing production and quality records accurately under supervision
- Reporting defects, errors or non-confirming items
Health & Safety:
- Working safely at all times and complying fully with all H&S rules, procedures and instructions
- Following safe systems of work and using machinery, tools and equipment when trained and authorised to do so
- Participation in risk assessments, toolbox talks and safety briefings
- Reporting of hazards, near misses, accidents, or unsafe conditions to the Team Leader
Housekeeping & Workplace Standards:
- Maintaining a clean, tidy, and organised work area at all times.
- Learning and following housekeeping standards
- Taking care of tools, equipment, and materials