Engineering apprenticeships have been around for a long time and are one of the most popular industries for apprenticeships.
Could it be for you?
There are various branches of engineering with different apprenticeship qualification levels available. So, here is everything you need to know about engineering apprenticeships and some companies that are currently recruiting for their next intake.
What Is Engineering and the Different Types You Can Study?
Engineering is the branch of science and technology concerned with the design, building, and use of engines, machines, and structures. It is a massive industry that has different areas within the sector; see the list below:
Benefits of Engineering Apprenticeships
Engineering apprenticeships provide a unique opportunity to build meaningful job experience before graduating college. Apprenticeship programs allow students to gain technical skills while they work with experienced professionals who can provide valuable insights and mentorship along the way.
Furthermore, participants are often given important responsibilities, such as designing and building new technologies or systems, which can give them experience in areas which would be out of reach without an apprenticeship.
Apart from this, engineering apprenticeships can also help to develop leadership, communication and time management skills which are all essential for success within any engineering role.
Finally, participants may even receive generous academic awards, allowing graduates to embark on lucrative careers with no student debt hanging over their heads. Clearly, there are a host of benefits associated with undertaking engineering apprenticeships.
How much will I be paid in Engineering Apprenticeships in the UK?
Engineering Apprenticeships in the UK are a great way to learn a specialized trade and gain valuable work experience at the same time. The amount that you may be paid for such apprenticeships varies depending on who's offering them.
In the UK, The average engineering apprentice salary calculates £27,500/year or £14.10/hour. Entry level positions begin at £22,453/year.
Generally, you will be expected to receive at least or around the UK National Minimum Wage, however large engineering companies do have their own workforce agreements which can result in higher pay.
It is important that whatever field of engineering or company you are considering an apprenticeship with, to check their wages policies in order to ensure it meets your needs. Doing this extra research goes a long way when finding the right low-level job for you.
Levels of Engineering Apprenticeships
Engineering apprenticeships offer a range of qualification levels:
Companies We Work With Offering Engineering Apprenticeships
Engineers play a vital role in keeping the RAF moving forward. You will receive specialist training, helping to propel you into a fast-paced working environment like no other! As an engineer in the RAF, you will be able to seek unique and exciting opportunities to set you apart from the crowd.
Engineer Technicians ensure the maintenance of highly technical equipment, whether it's a fighter jet, support equipment or an information system, allowing you to unlock your full potential in one of the most exciting careers in the engineering industry.
They are looking for Mechanical, Electrical and Public Health (MEP) Engineers across the UK and Chemical Engineers in Manchester. At Mace, you have the power to create a long-lasting and diverse career. From London to Hong Kong, New York to Nairobi, they work with clients around the world to shape cities and build sustainable communities that meet the needs of the future.
Stantec is a top-tier global consultancy that plans, designs, delivers and manages the development and infrastructure to support sustainable, healthy, and prosperous communities.
From beautiful buildings to high-performance water, energy, and infrastructure projects, Stantec is helping to enhance cities, towns and countryside for our future. They are currently advertising for Structural, Transport, Building Services and Civil Engineers.
They are looking for Network and Software Engineers in Digital & Technology Solutions. Millions of people rely on BT every day to help them live their lives, power their businesses and keep their public services running.
They connect friends to family, clients to colleagues, and people to possibilities and keep the wheels of business spinning and the emergency services responding. And they use the power of technology to help solve big challenges like climate change and cyber security.
These are just some of the companies we have on our website. You can see the rest who offer engineering apprenticeships here. There are plenty of reasons why you should consider doing an engineering apprenticeship, and you can build a lifelong career with a good salary upon completion of your qualifications.
FAQs
What are the 5 key components of an apprenticeship?
Although apprenticeships may vary somewhat, five key components hold true for many of them. These include selecting and matching an apprentice to an employer; providing education on the rules and expectations specific to the job; offering technical and practical training; supervising and evaluating the apprentice's work; and transitioning the apprentice into full journeyman status upon completion.
How do I prepare for an apprenticeship?
Preparing for an apprenticeship is a great way to start your career in a hands-on way. Researching different apprenticeship opportunities, reaching out and networking with contacts, and evaluating the specific job requirements are all great ways to begin taking the necessary steps to land an apprenticeship position.
Participating in mock interviews and/or training courses, practicing interviewing and application techniques, and reviewing past samples of other successful applicants' proposals can also give you a leg up on the competition.
With careful preparation and strategy, you will succeed in gaining an apprenticeship position.
Can employers fire apprentices?
Surprisingly enough, yes - as long as they adhere to set procedures. Apprenticeships are still part of the employer-employee relationship, so an apprentice can be dismissed just as any other employee may be.
This normally happens if the apprentice fails to meet the standards that were set out in their agreement or contract at the start of the application.
