At a Glance
- Tasks: Learn to maintain and repair advanced production machinery in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join Whitman Laboratories, part of Estée Lauder Companies, known for quality and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, birthday off, staff discounts, and free parking.
- Other info: Potential for full-time role after successful apprenticeship completion.
- Why this job: Kickstart your engineering career with hands-on experience and mentorship.
- Qualifications: GCSE Grade C/4 in maths and English; passion for engineering required.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 41600 £ per year.
About The Role
Are you naturally curious about how machinery works and have a keen eye for detail? Whitman Laboratories, part of Estée Lauder Companies, is seeking a motivated Engineering Maintenance Technician Apprentice to support our fast‑paced manufacturing environment. In this role, you’ll develop the technical skills needed to maintain, service, and repair production machinery and equipment, ensuring everything operates safely, efficiently, and to the high-quality standards our site is known for. You’ll also learn to carry out diagnostic testing, identify root causes of faults, and implement long‑term solutions that keep our operations running smoothly.
Training to be provided:
As an Engineering Maintenance Technician Apprentice, you will be studying a Level 3 Engineering Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship. Throughout your apprenticeship with UK Whitman, you will be supported by your company mentor and your PETA Learning and Development Coach. Your Level 3 programme will include a level 3 Engineering work-based qualification delivered by PETA. A practical period of 42 months and an overall duration of 46 months.
Your core responsibilities will include:
- Respond to breakdowns, systematically fault find, and identify root cause and then implement solution to prevent recurrence.
- Support 24-hour Site Production Operations and pro‑actively engage with all departments to supply an effective, efficient, compliant service on a right first-time basis.
- Carry out Planned Preventative Maintenance.
- Identify and implement continuous improvements opportunities to increase equipment efficiency, effectiveness, reliability and process robustness.
- Provide engineering support for production activity to meet customer requirements and site operations where required.
- Provide pro‑active, flexible support to Production activity with change overs, set‑ups, change parts and skills transfer.
- Actively build internal and external departmental relationships.
- Support cross functional activity relating to Safety, Quality and Project Work etc. with supporting documentation.
- Promote safe systems of work, adhering with Safety, Compliance, GMP and Audit working practices.
- Maintain skills and knowledge of equipment and changing technologies with training and sharing of best practices with peers and other support groups.
- Participate in company initiatives as Subject Matter Expert to seek resolutions to common issues.
- Adhere to Regulations and Legislative working practices.
Typical Working Week:
- Join the Engineering team daily planning or shift handover.
- Accompany engineers carrying out planned preventative maintenance (PPMs).
- Learn basic fault-finding techniques on production and utility equipment.
- Complete maintenance records and update engineering systems.
- Participate in toolbox talks and safety briefings.
Technical Learning & Projects:
- Work alongside maintenance technicians, facilities engineers, or project engineers.
- Learn about packaging lines, filling equipment, conveyors, compressed air systems, boilers and utilities, building services systems.
- Assist with small continuous improvement projects and engineering investigations.
College / Academic Study:
- The Engineering Apprentice programme includes structured academic learning.
- Attendance at technical college during the apprenticeship.
- Achievement of recognised engineering qualifications and NVQs.
- Development towards Engineering Technician (EngTech) registration.
- Completion of coursework, assignments and practical assessments.
Reliability & Engineering Excellence:
- Exposure to the wider engineering function including reliability engineering concepts, TPM (Total Productive Maintenance), asset management, obsolescence management, preventative maintenance strategies, root cause analysis activities, engineering stores and spare parts management.
Development & Reflection:
- Update apprenticeship logbook documenting projects, skills learned and experience gained.
- Meet with mentor or Technical Team Leader.
- Review training progress.
- Complete safety and compliance training.
- Support engineering improvement activities across site.
What you would learn at Whitman:
- Manufacturing engineering.
- Maintenance & Reliability.
- Facilities Engineering.
- Utilities systems.
- Health & Safety.
- Automation and controls.
- Mechanical engineering.
- Electrical engineering.
- Continuous Improvement.
- Project engineering.
- Engineering planning and scheduling.
Apprenticeship Progression:
For the right candidate, a full‑time position may be offered upon successful completion of the apprenticeship.
Our ideal Engineering Maintenance Technician Apprentice:
An apprenticeship is all about developing new knowledge, skills, and behaviours. Therefore, to be considered for the role of Engineering Maintenance Technician Apprentice, you must be able to demonstrate a genuine interest in engineering, a practical mindset, and a strong willingness to learn and grow within a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.
Essential Criteria:
- GCSE Grade C/4 or equivalent in maths and English.
- Mechanical aptitude – ability to understand mechanical problems.
- Skill in using tools, equipment and measuring devices will be developed during the apprenticeship.
- Good numerical skills – ability to analyse statistical data and identify trends.
- Basic computer skills.
- Ability to use the maintenance system within the Engineering Department.
- Essential that a customer related approach is adopted.
About Us:
Whitman Laboratories, part of The Estée Lauder Companies, is a long established and highly respected cosmetics manufacturing site with decades of expertise in producing premium skincare, makeup, and fragrance products. The facility is recognised for its advanced production technologies, high precision processes, and commitment to delivering world class beauty products to consumers across the UK and global markets. Over the years, Whitman Laboratories has continued to grow steadily, driven by a strong focus on quality, innovation, and operational excellence. This sustained success reflects the dedication of its teams and their commitment to maintaining the highest manufacturing standards. With a culture built on continuous improvement, collaboration, and customer satisfaction, the site plays a key role in supporting Estée Lauder’s reputation for exceptional product performance and reliability.
Company Benefits:
- Holiday Entitlement of 25 days (pro-rata).
- Day off for your Birthday.
- Up to 65% staff discount at Company Store.
- Access to LifeWorks - Employee Assistance Program.
- Staff Goody Bags.
- Free onsite car parking.
Engineering Maintenance Technician Apprentice employer: PETA LTD
Bumblebee Lighting is an excellent employer for aspiring engineers, offering a supportive apprenticeship programme in the picturesque setting of Upper Swanmore, Southampton. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will benefit from hands-on training, mentorship, and opportunities for full-time employment upon completion of your apprenticeship. The company fosters a friendly work culture, complete with engaging events and a focus on employee well-being, making it a rewarding place to kickstart your career in engineering.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Engineering Maintenance Technician Apprentice
✨Get Hands-On at Local Workshops
Don’t miss out on local engineering workshops and hackathons! They’re a brilliant way to learn something new, meet fellow aspiring engineers, and often, company reps will be scouting for fresh talent. Plus, you can mention your hands-on experiences at these events during your interviews!
✨Join Engineering Societies and Clubs
Get involved with engineering societies at your school or in your area. These communities often host talks, networking events, and even competitions, which can open doors to apprenticeship opportunities. Plus, chatting with industry professionals is never a bad idea!
✨Show Off Your Passion Online
Consider starting a blog or a social media account where you can share your engineering projects, ideas, and learnings. This not only demonstrates your passion but also your initiative. Share the link on your application to really showcase who you are!
✨Don’t Wait, Apply Early!
Apprenticeships often have early application windows, so keep an eye on PETA LTD’s website and get your applications in as soon as you can. The earlier you apply, the more likely you are to secure an interview and land that coveted position!
We think you need these skills to ace Engineering Maintenance Technician Apprentice
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for an engineering apprenticeship at PETA LTD, make sure to highlight any relevant technical skills and subjects you've excelled in. Include specific projects or coursework that demonstrate your understanding of engineering principles—anything from physics projects to CAD designs can really make your application stand out!
Include Your Learning Experience:Since this is an apprenticeship, we want to see how keen you are to learn. In your cover letter, talk about what you hope to gain from this opportunity at PETA LTD and how it aligns with your career goals. Don’t be shy—express your enthusiasm for getting hands-on experience!
Tailor Your CV for Engineering:Make sure your CV reflects your passion for engineering. List relevant coursework, skills, and any hands-on experiences like workshops or engineering clubs. Feel free to use a clear and structured layout so it's easy for the hiring team at PETA LTD to see your qualifications at a glance.
Keep it Visual—If Possible!:If you've worked on any engineering projects, consider including visual elements in your application—like pictures, graphs or even a small portfolio link. This isn’t mandatory, but visuals can help us appreciate your work and problem-solving skills more effectively!
How to prepare for a job interview at PETA LTD
✨Showcase Your Passion for Engineering
Since you're applying for an apprenticeship, it’s crucial to demonstrate your genuine enthusiasm for engineering. Be ready to talk about any projects you've done, be it in school or in your spare time, as this shows your commitment and eagerness to learn on the job at PETA LTD.
✨Get Hands-On with Technical Questions
Expect some technical queries related to basic engineering principles. Brush up on subjects you’ve covered in your studies, such as materials science or thermodynamics. They might throw a scenario your way to gauge how you would approach solving a problem—don't be afraid to think aloud!
✨Demonstrate Your Teamwork Skills
Apprenticeships often require working in teams, so be prepared to discuss how you've worked with others in school or during any group projects. Share specific examples that reflect your ability to collaborate and communicate effectively, as this is highly valued in engineering roles at PETA LTD.
✨Ask About Learning Opportunities
Make sure to prepare some questions about the apprenticeship itself, like how training will be structured or the types of projects you'll tackle. Showing curiosity about your growth will impress the interviewers at PETA LTD, demonstrating that you're ready to dive into the learning experience.
