About
Employer description
The University of Cambridge is one of the world’s oldest and most successful universities. They are a renowned centre for research, education, and scholarship that makes a significant contribution to society. The University is consistently ranked amongst the top universities in the world. Their affiliates have won more Nobel Prizes than any other University.
Main description
The Department of Engineering is the largest department in the University of Cambridge, representing approximately 10% of the University's activities by the majority of common metrics, and is one of Europe's largest integrated engineering departments.
The role holder will be based in the Department of Engineering, which has a significant technical workforce, engaged in the support of research, teaching and infrastructure. The role holder will support the work of the team in which they are based.
The successful candidate will be workshop based, undertaking a structured training programme in Mechanical or Electronics engineering, covering the use of equipment, machinery, software and Computer Aided Design (CAD).
Although based in one department, the apprentice may also have the opportunity to gain experience in another Department, institute or research group during the apprenticeship.
Key Responsibilities:
1) Use and care of the working environment
Understand common hazards and basic health and safety risks, and their mitigation, within the working environment. Learn and abide by standard operating procedures and risk assessments. (e.g. workshop safety, chemical safety). Understand and abide by basic Department or institution working practices (leave, hours of work, procurement, etc).
Beginning in year 2 and pending the apprenticeship progression: Understand when Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s) and risk assessments are out of date or in need of revision, and refer to supervisor. With time the candidate is expected to make suitable suggestions for improvement to such practices / assessments plus advise other students and / or other apprentices on such amendments and good practice.
2) Technical skill development
Learn basic skills of area of work (e.g. use of basic workshop tools, machinery and software), under the supervision of supervisor or allocated staff member. Apply skills in routine and straightforward tasks under supervision. (e.g material preparation, tool stock control).
Beginning in year 2 and pending the apprenticeship progression: Undertake more advanced jobs under supervision, or straightforward tasks independently, e.g. using a combination of tools and techniques, or working independently on a sub-component of a project.
Apply techniques and skills from college course in novel contexts, sharing skills with others, responsibility remaining with supervisor / more experienced staff member. Learn the use and maintenance of more sophisticated tools and equipment (e.g. CNC machines, CAD software, research apparatus). Learn and develop basic to more advanced trouble shooting skills with reference to key mechanical equipment and machining techniques and/or electrical components and assembly.
3) Contribute to projects
Observe projects and contribute to basic operations within a project, e.g. basic preparation of components or gathering materials; cleaning of instruments or tools.
Beginning in year 2 and pending the apprenticeship progression: Work more independently on elements of a project or task, referring all decisions to supervisor, applying new skills as appropriate.
Contribute to a team’s planning and execution of a project, perhaps of a few weeks’ duration, taking responsibility for small elements. (e.g in-design, execution of maintenance schedule, restocking) Advise students on elements of project design and construction or workshop practice.
4) Formal Training
Throughout the period of the apprenticeship, day release attendance at applicable course is required.
Prepare portfolio of evidence for on-going assessment and qualification throughout apprenticeship.
5) Other
Other duties appropriate with training that the Head of Department or nominee may occasionally require.
Entry requirements
Essential:
GCSEs at Grade C+ or above (or equivalent) in English, Mathematics and a science-based subject.
Skills required
- Communication skills
- IT skills
- Attention to detail
- Organisation skills
- Problem solving skills
- Team working
- Logical
Training to be provided
The learner will be studying the Engineering Technician Level 3 Apprenticeship Standard qualification.
Day release to West Suffolk College.
Things to consider
The role will be based on site.
Future prospects
This apprenticeship provides a strong foundation for a career in technical services. On completion, apprentices may have the opportunity to progress into more senior roles, such as Chief or Principal Technician positions, subject to experience and available opportunities.
Closing Date
The closing date for this job offer is on 07/06/2026
Salary
£ 20058 per year
Location
This job is located in Cambridge, Cambs
How to Apply
About West Suffolk College
West Suffolk College is an ambitious vocational and academic College, with a stunning main campus set in the heart of Bury St Edmunds. We are committed to providing outstanding education to all our students.
