Apprentice in Congleton

Based in Congleton, Cheshire, Senior Bird Bellows was established in 1975 as a family run operation serving the petro-chemical and gas industries. Since then, we have evolved to become one of the industry leaders in the design, development and manufacture of pressure duct systems, flexible joints and insulation for highly regulated industries. We have established customers in aerospace (both civil and military), as well as in the nuclear, oil and gas, chemical and pharmaceutical sectors.

This is an exciting opportunity for enthusiastic individuals to join our friendly and growing apprenticeship programme at Senior Bird Bellows. Our apprenticeships provide the opportunity to earn while you learn in an organisation committed to your professional development. As an apprentice, you will work alongside experienced colleagues in our aerospace manufacturing business to gain valuable practical skills and experience in a hands-on environment which will enable you to convert raw materials (Titanium, Stainless steel and nickel alloy) and purchased parts into saleable manufactured products, using production tooling and machinery in accordance with relevant engineering drawings and manufacturing instructions.

As part of your apprenticeship, you will attend college on day release to study for your nationally recognised qualification which can take between 12-18 months to complete. The successful applicant will gain an Intermediate Apprenticeship in Engineering operations.

As an Engineering Apprentice, you will learn how to:

• Work safely by using the correct PPE, following safety instructions, and reporting any defective equipment.
• Operate tools and machinery you’ve been trained on, carrying out basic maintenance and storing equipment correctly.
• Read and follow engineering drawings, job cards and work instructions to manufacture components accurately.
• Handle materials correctly, ensuring safe lifting, correct storage, and maintaining traceability.
• Check and record quality throughout each stage of production, including measurements, stamping operations, and preventing foreign object contamination.
• Use machinery to cut, form and weld components to required specifications.
• Maintain accurate production records using EFACS.
• Support continuous improvement and participate in training, cross‑functional learning, and team support when needed.

The ideal candidates will have GCSEs (Grade 3 or above) in Maths and English and a strong commitment to learning. You’ll bring a positive attitude, excellent timekeeping and the ability to work to deadlines. You should be able to absorb and process information, communicate clearly, and maintain high levels of accuracy and attention to detail. Strong numerical reasoning and effective error‑checking are also essential to succeed in this role.

We offer a supportive and rewarding work environment that values your wellbeing and work-life balance. Enjoy the benefits of a 4-day working week, giving you more time for what matters most. We also provide an excellent pension scheme, life assurance, and access to a confidential Employee Assistance Programme. Our team regularly takes part in social and wellbeing events, helping you stay connected, supported, and engaged both in and outside of work.

Contract Information: Monday - Thursday (36hrs) Full job description and person specification available upon request.