Engineering operative

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• applying directly

Entry requirements:

College

You could take a college course to learn some of the skills needed for this job. Relevant courses include:

• Level 2 Certificate in Engineering Operations
• Level 2 Certificate in Engineering Technologies
• Level 2 Diploma in Engineering
• Level 2 Diploma in Mechanical Engineering

Entry requirements:

• 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course

Apprenticeship

You could start by doing an engineering operative intermediate apprenticeship.

Entry requirements:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship

DirectApplication

You can apply directly for jobs if you have engineering experience. This could be from mechanical servicing or maintenance, fitting, fabrication or electrical work.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Skills:

• the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• complex problem-solving skills
• the ability to work well with others
• maths knowledge
• the ability to use your initiative
• knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
• excellent verbal communication skills
• thinking and reasoning skills
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• analytical thinking skills
• the ability to read English
• design skills and knowledge
• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• active listening skills
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• the ability to monitor your own performance and that of your colleagues
• concentration skills
• a good memory

What you'll do:

Engineering operatives make, service and repair machinery and tools across different industries.

In this job, you could:

• build components and sub-assemblies into finished electrical or mechanical products
• fit parts to machinery and equipment
• service and repair machines and tools
• operate machine tools like lathes, cutters, grinders and borers
• set and operate computer-controlled machinery
• apply finishes and coatings to products
• make quality checks
• use forklift trucks, hoists or trolleys to move raw materials and finished products around the workplace

Location : You could work in a factory, on a construction site or in a workshop.
Environment : Your working environment may be dusty, hot and physically demanding.
Uniform : You may need to wear protective clothing.

Salary:

Starter : £18,000
Experienced : £25,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

42 - 44 hours a week

Working Pattern is evenings / weekends on shifts

Career Path:

With further training, you could become an engineering craftsperson or technician in your particular industry. You could also specialise, for example in CNC machining, welding or heavy vehicle mechanics.