At a Glance
- Tasks: Support automation systems and learn hands-on engineering skills in a modern manufacturing environment.
- Company: Join Altro, a family-owned British business with a focus on innovation and wellbeing.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn, enjoy 25 days holiday, and access various employee support services.
- Other info: Clear progression opportunities into engineering roles and a supportive team culture.
- Why this job: Kickstart your engineering career with real-world experience and a recognised qualification.
- Qualifications: GCSE Maths and English, strong problem-solving skills, and a passion for engineering.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 £ per year.
Join Altro and build your future in engineering. At Altro, we’ve been manufacturing innovative flooring and wall cladding systems since 1919. As a family-owned British business, we take pride in creating environments that improve people’s wellbeing, while supporting our people to grow, develop and thrive.
We’re now looking for an Automation & Controls Engineering Apprentice to join our Letchworth site and start an exciting career in advanced manufacturing.
About the Apprenticeship
You’ll complete the Level 4 Automation & Controls Engineering Technician Apprenticeship with Harlow College, attending one day per week on day release while gaining hands-on experience on site. The apprenticeship will take approximately 4 years. You’ll work towards a Level 4 HNC in Engineering, building the knowledge and practical skills needed to become a qualified Automation & Controls Engineer.
What you’ll be doing
- Support the maintenance and improvement of automation and control systems (e.g. PLCs, HMIs, instrumentation)
- Assist with fault finding and diagnostics using structured problem-solving techniques
- Help maintain equipment performance and reduce downtime
- Get involved in equipment installation, system upgrades and commissioning projects
- Learn how automation systems connect across our manufacturing operations
- Update engineering documentation including electrical drawings and PLC backups
- Contribute to a safe working environment following our Zero Harm principles
As your skills grow, you’ll take on more responsibility and develop towards becoming a subject matter expert in automation and controls.
As well as an exciting opportunity and a competitive salary, what do we have to offer?
- Starting holiday entitlement of 25 days, with the option to buy more
- Defined contribution pension scheme
- Life assurance from day one
- Occupational Sick Pay and onsite Occupational Health Service
- Confidential 24-hour life management and personal support service for you and your family
- Enhanced family-friendly benefits, including Maternity, Paternity, and Shared Parental Leave
- Free eye tests for all employees
- A paid day off each year for volunteering
- Free car parking at all our sites
- Long service awards
- Learning and Development support, regardless of your career stage
- Various social events, including the company Christmas party
- Retirement advice and support
What we’re looking for
Essential:
- GCSE Maths and English (Grade 4/C or above)
- Ability to travel independently to Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire (4 days per week) and Harlow College (1 day per week)
- A genuine interest in engineering, automation, or how things work
- Strong problem-solving skills and a logical mindset
- A commitment to working safely and following procedures
- Good communication and teamwork skills
- Basic IT skills
Desirable:
- 64 UCAS points or a relevant Level 3 Engineering qualification
- Knowledge of electrical circuits or wiring
- Awareness of PLCs, automation, or control systems
- Interest in industrial technology or manufacturing
Why join Altro?
- Earn while you learn and gain a recognised Level 4 qualification
- Hands-on experience in a modern manufacturing environment
- Support from experienced engineers and mentors
- Clear progression opportunities into engineering roles
- Be part of a company that genuinely values its people
Everyone is welcome at Altro for who they are, no matter what their background is or how they identify. We appreciate that everyone is different and with that diverse uniqueness we can all thrive. “We don’t want you to just work here. We want you to belong here.”
Career progression
This apprenticeship is designed to set you up for a long-term career, with opportunities to progress into roles such as:
- Automation & Controls Engineer
- Project Engineer
- Senior Engineering Technician
Important information
Apprenticeship training is delivered in partnership with Harlow College. Start date: September/October 2026 intake. You must secure employment with Altro before starting the apprenticeship.
Engineering Apprenticeship - Automation & Controls in Norton employer: Altro
At Altro, we pride ourselves on being a family-owned British business that fosters a supportive and inclusive work culture. As an Engineering Apprentice at our Letchworth site, you'll not only earn while you learn but also benefit from hands-on experience in advanced manufacturing, comprehensive training, and clear pathways for career progression. With generous holiday entitlement, enhanced family-friendly benefits, and a commitment to employee wellbeing, Altro is dedicated to helping you grow and thrive in your engineering career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Engineering Apprenticeship - Automation & Controls in Norton
✨Get Hands-On with Projects
Dive into some practical projects or tinkering with automation systems—whether it’s building a small robot or setting up a home automation project. This not only boosts your skills but also gives you something tangible to showcase during interviews for your apprenticeship at places like Altro!
✨Join Automation Communities
Connect with online forums and local meetups centred around automation and control systems. Platforms like Reddit, LinkedIn groups, or local tech hubs are gold mines for learning, networking, and even finding apprenticeship openings in your field.
✨Leverage Your School's Resources
Check out your school's career centre for connections and advice specifically about apprenticeship opportunities. They often have links to local companies, workshops, and events that can help you get your foot in the door and even put you in touch with Altro.
✨Build a Portfolio of Your Work
Create a simple online portfolio to showcase any relevant projects or skills you've gained. Include photos, diagrams, or videos, showing what you can do. This could really impress recruiters when you're applying for an apprenticeship at Altro!
We think you need these skills to ace Engineering Apprenticeship - Automation & Controls in Norton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Technical Savvy:In the automation control systems field, it's essential to highlight your familiarity with programming languages and systems. If you've done any hands-on projects with PLCs or robotics, make sure to mention those in your CV. It’ll show that you’re not just book-smart but can apply your skills practically too!
Highlight Your Problem-Solving Skills:When applying for an apprenticeship, employers are keen to see your ability to tackle real-world issues. Share specific examples where you've identified a problem and how you approached a solution, even if it's from school projects or hobbies. This will demonstrate your analytical thinking and creativity in a technical setting.
Craft a Learning-Focused Cover Letter:While your CV showcases what you’ve done, your cover letter is the place to express your motivation and eagerness to learn. Outline why you're passionate about automation control systems, and mention any relevant coursework or certifications that support your learning journey. This is key for apprenticeship applications!
Tailor Your Application to Altro:Make your application stand out by researching Altro and specifying what excites you about working with them. Whether it’s their projects or technologies they use, referencing these in your CV or cover letter can show your genuine interest and tailor your submission to really resonate with them!
How to prepare for a job interview at Altro
✨Show Off Your Tech Savvy
In the automation control systems field, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of key technologies like PLCs and SCADA systems. Brush up on the basics of these tools and be prepared to answer questions on how they apply to real-world scenarios. It'll show that you’re not just keen, but also have a grasp of the essentials!
✨Practical Problem-Solving Skills
Expect to be given some problem-solving scenarios during the interview. You might be asked to explain how you'd approach a certain automation challenge or troubleshoot a hypothetical control system issue. Prepare by practising common problems you might encounter and thinking through your solution strategies.
✨Demonstrate Your Willingness to Learn
As an apprentice, your motivation and eagerness to learn are just as important as your technical skills. Be ready to share examples of how you've tackled new concepts or projects in the past, and discuss what you hope to gain from your time at Altro. Show that you’re excited about the journey ahead!
✨Connect Your Hobbies to the Field
If you have any personal projects or interests that involve automation or control systems—like robotics or DIY electronics—definitely bring them up. This not only showcases your passion but also offers tangible evidence of your skills. It’s a great way to make your application memorable and relatable!
