Level 3 Maintenance and Operations Engineering Technician

Throughout your apprenticeship you will be supported to develop specific knowledge, skills and behaviours which will help you develop as an engineer. These are outlined below.

You will work on developing the following knowledge:

• First principles relating to the operation and maintenance of appropriate plant and equipment
• Relevant industry health and safety standards, regulations, and environmental and regulatory requirements
• Maintenance and operational practices, processes and procedures covering a range of plant and equipment
• The relevant engineering theories and principles relative to their occupation

A Technician will apply their knowledge of plant and systems to safely perform maintenance and operational activities with minimum supervision. This will require them to develop the following core skills:

• Comply with industry health, safety and environmental working practices and regulations
• Prepare work areas to undertake work related activities and reinstate those areas after the completion of the work-related activities
• Inspect and maintain appropriate plant and equipment to meet operational requirements
• Locate, and rectify faults on plant and equipment
• Communicate with and provide information to stakeholders in line with personal role and responsibilities
• Read, understand and interpret information and work in compliance with technical specifications and supporting documentation
• Communicate, handover and confirm that the appropriate engineering process has been completed to specification

You will work on developing the following behaviours:

• A strong commitment to safety and quality
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Responsibility and accountability for their work
• Effective communication and teamwork
• A proactive approach to problem-solving
• Professionalism, organisation, and a commitment to continuous improvement

Specialist Roles

In addition, a Control and Instrumentation Technician will:

• Position, assemble, install and dismantle plant and equipment which will include instrumentation and control of temperature, pressure and flow systems to agree specifications
• Calibrate and configure instrument and control systems

In addition, an Electrical System and Process Control Technician will:

• Position, assemble, install and dismantle integrated electrical apparatus, systems and process control equipment
• Calibrate and configure integrated electrical apparatus, systems and process control equipment

In addition, an Electrical Technician will:

• Position, assemble, install and dismantle electrical plant and equipment, which will include motors, switchgear, cables & conductors, to agreed specifications

In addition, an Electromechanical Technician will:

• Position, assemble, install and dismantle integrated electromechanical power and control systems

In addition, a Mechanical Technician will:

• Position, assemble, install and dismantle mechanical plant and equipment which will include pumps, valves, gearboxes, pipework, to agreed specifications

In addition, a Plant Operations Technician will:

• Understand complex thermal, chemical, mechanical and electrical energy conversion processes
• Understand the principles, design and operation of plant, systems and equipment used for energy conversion and production
• Evaluate and solve complex problems within energy conversion plant and systems
• Rapidly and correctly respond to contingencies and abnormal conditions, to maintain energy conversion and production plant and equipment within operational parameters

In addition, a Wind Turbine Technician will be able to:

• Install, assemble and dismantle wind turbine plant and equipment, which will include pitch systems, yaw systems, switchgear, control systems to agreed specifications

Apprenticeships combine real work with training and study. You’ll apply what you learn directly on the job, gaining hands-on experience and skills. As an apprentice, you will spend a set amount of contracted working hours developing the skills, knowledge and behaviours illustrated on the Standard above. This is achieved via a flexible approach and also by using learning that occurs as part of the job role within the workplace.

You will be supported by your mentor and Apprenticeship Trainer to achieve the following before your final assessment:

• Complete a portfolio of evidence.
• Complete a minimum of 20% off-the-job training.

To ensure you are on-track and have the support you need, you will have the following sessions to attend:

• Regular Apprentice Trainer visits at workplace (Every 8-10 weeks)
• Reviews in the workplace with Line Manager
• Attend regular College sessions

End Point Assessment is the final test for apprentices during their apprenticeship. It is designed to be an objective and impartial assessment of your knowledge, skills and behaviours.  At the end of an apprenticeship, you will go through a ‘gateway’ process where you will be signed-off by your employer as ready for a final assessment of your knowledge and practical capabilities. The assessment will be conducted and graded by an independent End Point Assessment Organisation.

End Point Assessment Methods:

• A theoretical knowledge test.
• A practical observation
• A professional discussion

Upon completion of this apprenticeship, you will have developed a strong knowledge of engineering techniques and best practices. You also will have gained confidence which will be backed up by your impressive skill set. This will prepare you to get a job or apply for a higher-level apprenticeship.

Many of our learners have impressed their employers during their time as an apprentice and now work for that company full-time.

The entry requirement for this apprenticeship will be decided by each employer.

Learners may have experience in a similar course/job role and will hold a GCSE Grade 4/3 or Level 2 Functional Skills in Maths and English. Maths and English are a vital part of your apprenticeship and can really support your progression on your chosen course.

If you do not already hold these levels of Maths and English, we have a friendly and experienced team of lecturers; who can support you throughout and will arrange exams once you are ready. We deliver Functional Skills in a variety of ways; including classroom based and online study.

This standard will meet the professional standards of the Engineering Council for registration as Engineering Technician (Eng Tech) by an appropriate Professional Engineering Institution.