Test technician apprentice in Paignton

Overview

Keysight is at the forefront of technology innovation, delivering breakthroughs and trusted insights in electronic design, simulation, prototyping, test, manufacturing, and optimization. Our ~16,800 employees create world-class solutions in communications, 5G, automotive, energy, quantum, aerospace, defense, and semiconductor markets for customers in over 100 countries. Our award-winning culture embraces a bold vision of where technology can take us and a passion for tackling challenging problems with industry-first solutions. We believe that when people feel a sense of belonging, they can be more creative, innovative, and thrive at all points in their careers.

Spirent, a Keysight company, is a global leader in satellite navigation test and simulation systems within the Positioning Technologies business unit. Our advanced RF signal generators and simulation software - designed entirely in-house - are the industry benchmark, used in every major navigation and communications test for devices on land, at sea, in the air and in space over the last six years.

Join our team as a Test Technician Apprentice and gain hands-on experience in a high-tech testing environment, working closely with experienced technicians and engineers to ensure products meet required performance and quality standards before delivery to customers - combining classroom learning with on-the-job training in testing, diagnostics and quality assurance.

Location: Paignton (on-site)

Contract: Full-time, temporary - for the duration of the course (approx. 2.5 years)

Salary: £19,500 per annum

Training: South Devon College - Manufacturing Technician Higher Apprenticeship

Pattern: College day-release (typically one day/week); on-site remaining days; full-time on-site during college holidays

Hours: Mon-Thu 8.25 hrs, Fri 4.5 hrs (30 min lunch)

Responsibilities

• Perform routine and non-routine testing on components, assemblies and finished products.
• Follow test procedures and document results accurately.
• Assist in troubleshooting and fault diagnosis of equipment and systems.
• Calibrate and maintain test instruments and measurement tools.
• Report product issues or failures to engineering or quality teams.
• Support investigations into test failures and non-conformities.
• Help improve test methods and suggest ideas for efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and company procedures.

You'll also learn how to operate and interpret results from electronic and mechanical test equipment, fundamentals of diagnostics and root cause analysis, how quality assurance fits into the product development lifecycle, and professional reporting and cross-functional collaboration.

Qualifications

• English and Maths (GCSE or equivalent) at Level 4 or above.
• A genuine interest in electronics, engineering, or diagnostics.
• No prior industry experience required.
• A Level 3 qualification in engineering (or a related subject) is desirable but not essential - relevant industry experience is also welcomed.
• Good attention to detail and a logical, methodical approach; willingness to learn, ask questions and solve problems; reliable, organised, and able to work safely and effectively.