Level 3 Machining Technician Apprenticeship

Make An Enquiry

This qualification equips apprentices with precision machining skills to set up, operate, and monitor machine tools for producing high-quality components across various engineering and manufacturing sectors. The programme develops expertise in conventional and CNC machining operations, ensuring components meet exact specifications and quality standards.

This apprenticeship is designed for those working in or aspiring to machining roles who want to develop advanced technical skills in precision manufacturing and component production.

Typically this apprenticeship will take 42 months.

On completion, apprentices will achieve a Level 3 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering and Level 3 Diploma in Machining, with opportunities to progress to roles such as CNC Programmer, Tool and Die Maker, or move into supervisory positions within the manufacturing sector.

Qualitrain has delivered hundreds of engineering and manufacturing qualifications within many different organisations and industrial sectors, including aerospace, automotive, and precision engineering.

Precision Machining Operations

Setting up and operating CNC machines and conventional machine tools
Programming, proving, and editing CNC programmes for complex components
Operating centre lathes, milling machines, and grinding machines
Electro discharge machining and multi-axis CNC machining centres
Precision measuring and inspection using micrometers and calipers
Component production from specialist materials and alloys
Machine tool adjustment and equipment settings optimisation
Workholding and tooling selection for complex machining operations

Engineering Design & Quality Control

Interpreting and analysing engineering drawings and technical specifications
Blueprint reading and schematic analysis for component production
Quality control processes and inspection techniques
Dimensional accuracy and tolerance achievement
Surface finish requirements and measurement
Materials science and specialist material properties
Quality assurance systems and documentation
Component testing and validation procedures

Maintenance & Problem Solving

Routine maintenance and troubleshooting of machinery
Preventative maintenance scheduling and execution
Equipment fault diagnosis and repair techniques
Tool condition monitoring and replacement strategies
Machine calibration and accuracy verification
Health and safety protocols in machining environments
Lean manufacturing principles and waste reduction
Continuous improvement identification and implementation

Professional Behaviours

Personal responsibility and accountability for precision work
Attention to detail and commitment to quality standards
Effective communication with engineering teams and supervisors
Problem-solving approach to complex machining challenges
Teamwork and collaboration in manufacturing environments
Adaptability to new technologies and machining methods
Continuous professional development and skills enhancement
Safety-first approach to all machining operations

Entry Requirements

There are no official entry requirements for this qualification, however individual employers are able to set the selection criteria for their Apprenticeships.