Manufacturing Apprenticeship CNC in Glenrothes

Start your manufacturing career with NOV as an Apprentice CNC Machinist at our Glenrothes facility, supporting the production of high spec subsea components. This hands-on role combines structured training with real shop floor experience across CNC turning, milling, and boring. You will develop core machining, problem-solving, and process discipline skills while contributing to live production.

Over the course of the apprenticeship, you will progress from foundational training to operating and setting machines within a high-performance manufacturing environment. Your development will include gaining an understanding of the full manufacturing lifecycle, from order intake through planning, machining, inspection, and final delivery, before moving into hands-on machining and contributing to production under supervision. By the later stages, you will operate with increasing independence while maintaining high standards of safety, quality, and efficiency.

At NOV Glenrothes, we manufacture critical components for the energy sector, used in demanding offshore and onshore environments where quality, precision, and reliability are essential. We operate a high mix, low volume production environment, delivering complex, high value components that require technical expertise and a strong commitment to excellence. Our success is driven by skilled people, robust processes, and a culture that prioritises safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

We offer a structured apprenticeship programme that combines formal education with practical, hands-on experience in a real manufacturing environment. You will receive:

• Comprehensive training across CNC machining, inspection, and manufacturing processes
• Mentorship from experienced machinists and supervisors
• Exposure to multiple departments including programming, quality assurance, toolroom, inspection, and stores
• A clear development pathway from trainee to competent CNC Machinist
• Opportunities to gain recognised qualifications alongside on-the-job learning

Key Responsibilities:

• Participate in a structured apprenticeship programme combining academic and practical learning
• Learn and apply CNC machining techniques including turning, milling, and boring
• Interpret engineering drawings and understand tolerances and specifications
• Assist with machine setup, tooling selection, and process execution
• Operate CNC machines under supervision, progressing to independent operation over time
• Follow standardised work instructions and maintain accurate documentation
• Adhere to all health, safety, and environmental (HSE) standards
• Contribute to right-first-time quality and efficient production output
• Support continuous improvement initiatives within the workshop
• Work collaboratively as part of the wider manufacturing team

Qualifications & Skills:

• Essential: National 5 Mathematics at grade A–B or above; Strong foundational understanding of mathematics, supporting problem-solving and technical learning; Willingness to learn and successfully complete apprenticeship qualifications
• Desirable: Two additional National 5 qualifications at grades A–C, demonstrating solid academic performance and the ability to succeed in further technical training; An NC in Manufacturing (or a related discipline) would be advantageous; however, we welcome applications from candidates who are keen to learn and develop within the role; Interest in engineering or manufacturing processes

Interpersonal Skills (optional):

• Strong willingness to learn and retain new information
• Proactive approach to problem solving and continuous improvement
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
• Good communication skills and confidence in asking questions
• Accountability and ability to learn from mistakes
• Understanding of workplace priorities: Safety, Quality, then Delivery

This apprenticeship offers a unique opportunity to build a long-term career in manufacturing while gaining hands-on experience with advanced CNC equipment and complex, high-precision components. You will gain exposure to the full manufacturing process and work closely with multiple departments, including HSE, Quality Assurance, Programming, Inspection, and Operations. This breadth of experience provides a strong foundation for future career progression within NOV. With clear development milestones at 6 and 12 months, including academic progression and increased shop-floor responsibility, you will steadily grow into a skilled and confident CNC Machinist.