General Engineering and Manufacturing Operative
General engineering and manufacturing apprentices help make and build things in different workplaces.
This could include putting parts together, fixing machines, shaping and cutting materials, welding, or even using 3D printers. They’re needed in lots of industries like cars, planes, energy, and many types of manufacturing.
As an apprentice, you’ll learn how to do these jobs safely, plan and organise what you need, and complete tasks on time.
Apprenticeship information
Entry requirements
- A minimum of two GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above in English and Maths
- Foundation Apprenticeships are for learners aged 16-21
Where will I study?
Training 2000 Blackburn
Duration
- 8 months
- Six hours per week need to be dedicated towards portfolio work and training in the workplace
English and Maths
You may need to complete your English and Maths Functional Skills depending on your GCSE grades, or if you cannot provide evidence of your GCSE results.
The Functional Skills programme runs as an addition to the time you are already required to spend doing your off-the-job training. Following a thorough assessment process, we will select a learning plan suitable for you, which will be either 2-weeks full-time or 12-weeks (one day per-week) each for English and/or maths.
If a subject needs re-sitting, this will be additional time in the classroom on top of your learning plan.
What you'll learn
Health, Safety & Environment
- Know your responsibilities for health, safety, and wellbeing at work.
- Follow safety rules and care for the environment.
- Use and look after your safety gear (PPE).
- Work in a sustainable way, like recycling and disposing of waste safely.
Workplace Preparation & Maintenance
- Keep your work area clean and ready to use.
- Look after tools, machines, and equipment, doing simple checks and storing them properly.
Engineering Information & Communication
- Read and understand instructions, drawings, and technical documents.
- Communicate clearly with others—whether that’s talking, writing, or using digital tools.
Hand & Machine-Based Engineering Tasks
- Use hand tools to measure, mark out, and shape materials.
- Use machines for tasks like drilling, turning, milling, grinding, CNC, and 3D printing.
Components and Fastenings
- Learn about and use common parts, fixings, and materials when building or preparing components.
Quality Control
- Check your work to make sure it’s done right, using simple tests and visual checks.
Teamwork & Professional Conduct
- Work well with others to meet goals.
- Be professional: turn up on time and behave appropriately.
Personal Development
- Take feedback on board and keep improving.
- Be flexible, handle changes, and solve problems at work.
- Look after your health, wellbeing, and money using support when needed.
Next steps
On completion of this course you may want to consider the following options to further your career.
Where can you progress to?
Frequently asked questions
Most of our Apprenticeships are 4 years but can be shorter dependant on the type of engineering you are learning.
We offer engineering Apprenticeships in a range of areas, such as CAD (Computer Aided Design), Welding, Fire & Security systems, Electronics, Mechatronics and CNC.
We work with many local engineering companies, who advertise their vacancies on our website. These will change daily, so always check back for the latest ones.
As we are part of the University of Lancashire, you can easily progress onto a Degree Apprenticeship