Technical Apprentice in Wallsend

Introduction

The Manufacturing Engineer Apprentice will work alongside experienced engineering and production teams to develop the skills, knowledge, and behaviours required to become a qualified Manufacturing Engineer.

About the Employer

Advanced, based at The Bridges on Balliol Business Park in Longbenton, is a specialist manufacturer of life-safety and fire protection technology. The company designs, develops and manufactures intelligent fire detection and alarm systems used in commercial, industrial and public buildings around the world.

Its product range includes fire alarm control panels, detection systems, emergency lighting, fire paging, false-alarm management and extinguishing control systems. Its equipment is designed to provide reliable early warning of fire and help protect people, buildings and critical infrastructure.

Advanced has a significant research, development and manufacturing operation at Balliol Business Park. The company brought its administration and operations together at the Longbenton site to support its manufacturing, R&D and commercial activities. Its products are installed internationally, including in major and high-profile buildings, and the company has developed systems capable of supporting anything from individual buildings to large, multi-site networks.

The company is part of Halma plc, a global group specialising in life-saving technologies. Advanced is therefore a particularly relevant local employer for engineering, electronics, electrical, manufacturing, testing, quality, maintenance and technical support skills.

In short: Advanced Electronics is a high-value engineering and manufacturing business in Longbenton, producing sophisticated electronic fire and life-safety systems for customers worldwide.

What You’ll Do

The role supports the improvement of manufacturing processes, equipment, production efficiency, quality, and safety while undertaking a structured apprenticeship programme.

This is an excellent opportunity for an individual interested in engineering, manufacturing, and continuous improvement to gain practical experience within a fast-paced production environment while working towards a recognised qualification.

Key Responsibilities

Manufacturing Support

• Assist in the development and improvement of manufacturing processes and production methods
• Support manufacturing engineers with process optimisation projects
• Participate in shop floor observations and process reviews to identify improvement opportunities
• Help investigate production issues and support the implementation of corrective actions
• Assist in the design and optimisation of production layouts and workflows

Continuous Improvement

• Participate in Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement activities
• Support 5S initiatives and workplace organisation projects
• Assist with waste reduction, efficiency improvement, and productivity projects
• Contribute to Kaizen events and problem-solving workshops
• Support data collection and analysis to identify trends and opportunities for improvement

Production & Quality

• Assist in the creation and maintenance of work instructions and standard operating procedures (SOPs)
• Support quality investigations and root cause analysis activities

Help monitor production KPIs such as:

• OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness)
• Scrap Rates
• Yield
• Downtime
• Productivity

Work with production teams to improve process consistency and product quality.

Training Outcome

Upon completion of this level 3 apprenticeship, there may be an opportunity for a permanent position.

Skills Required

• Communication skills
• IT skills
• Attention to detail
• Organisation skills
• Problem solving skills
• Presentation skills
• Administrative skills
• Number skills
• Analytical skills
• Logical
• Team working
• Initiative

Qualifications

• Essential - GCSE - maths and English - 5/C or above

Course Information

Course: Engineering and manufacturing support technician (level 3)

Level: 3

Route: Engineering and manufacturing

Apprenticeship Level: Advanced

Working Arrangements

Working Week: Monday - Friday, 8.00am - 4.30pm.

Expected Duration: 3 Years 6 Months

Training Provider: TDR TRAINING LIMITED