Introduction
An excellent opportunity to start a solid career in metal fabrication at a small, family firm, which combines a highly skilled team with cutting-edge technology to provide a high-quality service to customers from a wide range of different industries.
About the Employer
Hughes Fabrications was set up 45 years ago and has developed into a well-respected, multi-service metal fabrication firm which combines the specialist skills of its dedicated team with the latest sophisticated technology to achieve the best results for their customers. The company’s sought-after services, used by a range of industries, include laser cutting, water jet cutting, bending, forming, welding and assembly. Work ranges from one off commissions such as an intricately-designed beacon to celebrate the late Queen’s platinum jubilee to high volume batch work for prestigious clients in the automobile and food industries. Their creative work includes many ‘Welcome to’ village signs with laser cut images representing the activities which take place in the particular comm unity. The firm was set up by Ian Hughes, whose son Iain, is now the Managing Director. One of their first apprentices has now been with the company for 40 years and will be there to help guide the next generation of Hughes apprentices. Successful apprenticeship candidates will gain specialist skills and support the company with its further development which includes continued investment in new machinery and equipment. All staff are trained on the state-of-the-art equipment giving everyone the chance to rotate around the workshop and gain experience using the machinery, as well as ensuring their fabrication skills are kept up to date.
What You'll Do
This is an excellent opportunity for the right candidate to work in a multi-disciplined metal fabrication company.
Working alongside experienced staff to gain knowledge and skills in all aspects of metal fabrication, including;
- Welding using MIG, TIG, and MMA
- Operation of laser cutting and water jet cutting machines
- Operation of press brakes
- Engineering maintenance
- Working at customer sites to install our work or complete maintenance
Initial Job duties will include;
- Assisting senior welder / fabricators to complete their work.
- Cleaning tools, maintaining equipment, and tidying work area
- Ensure you always wear your mandatory PPE
- Undertake any other task as reasonably instructed by a superior
- Must be prepared to work within and as part of a team, be able to interact with colleagues and management at all levels
Once the candidate is deemed competent;
- Cutting materials into the required shapes, checking dimensions and thicknesses
- Welding or joining metal
- Following engineering plans, drawings, and instructions
- Operating tools and machinery and welding equipment
Training Outcome
To become a full-time and highly skilled member of the team following on from successful completion of apprenticeship.
Skills Required
- Communication skills
- Attention to detail
- Team working
- Enthusiastic
- Honest
- Reliable
Qualifications
- Essential - GCSE - English - C/4
- Essential - GCSE - Maths - C/4
Course Information
Course: Metal fabricator (level 3)
Level: 3
Route: Engineering and manufacturing
Apprenticeship Level: Advanced
Working Arrangements
Working Week: Monday to Thursday - 7.30 am to 4.30 pm Friday: 7.30 am to 1:30pm.
Expected Duration: 3 Years 6 Months
Training Provider: CHESHIRE COLLEGE SOUTH AND WEST
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StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Apprentice Metal Fabricator in Northwich
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Hughes Fabrications, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Hughes Fabrications specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hughes Fabrications
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Hughes Fabrications, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Hughes Fabrications value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.