At a Glance
- Tasks: Learn product design, build equipment, and test performance in a hands-on engineering role.
- Company: Join a global leader in pneumatic and automation technology with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Gain valuable skills, receive ongoing training, and enjoy career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Exciting future prospects with potential for further qualifications and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while developing your engineering skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs including Maths, English, and a Science or Technical subject.
The predicted salary is between 18500 - 25000 £ per year.
You’d be amazed at the things we get involved with… We’ve got airplanes into the air, cars on the road, battened down the hatches on boardship, and reduced the CO2 footprint of commercial freight. We’ve put bread on your table, pulled you a pint, put the shirt on your back and a phone in your pocket. Imagine working for us - a global market leader in pneumatic and automation technology where innovation and customer satisfaction is at the forefront of what we do.
The Opportunity
SMC is looking for motivated individuals with a genuine passion for engineering and a focus on customer satisfaction. Based in Milton Keynes, you’ll join our European Technical Centre (ETC), a key hub supporting customers across Europe with product design and technical expertise across a wide range of industries. You’ll work alongside experienced engineers to deliver high‑quality, responsive technical support, while collaborating with SMC teams across Europe, our Engineering Headquarters in Japan, and manufacturing sites in the UK, Italy, and the Czech Republic. This ensures designs follow best practice and are ready for efficient production. This is a varied, hands‑on role offering real challenges, the chance to build valuable skills, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on both your own development and the success of the business.
What will the apprentice be doing?
- Learn how products are designed, including choosing materials, components, and finishes.
- Build and modify equipment using drawings and step‑by‑step instructions.
- Understand how pneumatic and electrical systems work and how to design them.
- Test products to make sure they perform well and last over time.
- Use and look after workshop tools and equipment.
- Learn about important safety and industry regulations and how to follow them.
- Support customers by answering questions and helping solve problems.
- Develop confidence in communicating with both technical and non‑technical people.
About you
You are a motivated and reliable individual with a strong interest in engineering and how things work. You have good problem‑solving skills, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn both practical and theoretical concepts. A basic understanding of maths and science is important, along with the ability to follow instructions and work safely. You are a team player who can also take initiative when needed, communicate clearly, and stay organised. Most importantly, you show enthusiasm, commitment, and a positive attitude towards developing your skills as part of an engineering apprenticeship. Good time‑keeping is a must!
Entry Requirements
You will have a minimum of 5 GCSE’s grades 4‑9 (A‑C) which should include Mathematics, English language and a Science or Technical subject at grade 6 or above.
Training provided
Level 3 Engineering Design Technician. Ensure you read about the standard before applying to ensure it is the right route for you – check out the link here: Engineering Design Technician Training with Milton Keynes College: Milton Keynes College. Ongoing support and training with SMC. Duration: 42 months excluding end‑point assessment.
Future prospects
Following completion of your apprenticeship, you will become a Junior Engineer and use the skills, knowledge and behaviours gained to support the team in the design, simulation testing and technical support of special and new SMC products. SMC champion employee development and following successful completion of your level 3, would be happy to support you on to a level 4 qualification and beyond to continue your development with a plan to successfully move forward in the business.
Closing Date: Friday 3rd July 2026. We reserve the right to close applications earlier than the specified closing date if volume has been reached. Enthusiasm and a genuine interest in engineering and manufacturing.
Design Technician Apprentice in Milton Keynes employer: SMC Corporation (UK) Limited
At SMC, we pride ourselves on being a global leader in pneumatic and automation technology, offering a dynamic work environment in Milton Keynes that fosters innovation and customer satisfaction. As a Design Technician Apprentice, you'll benefit from hands-on experience alongside seasoned engineers, with ample opportunities for personal and professional growth, including support for further qualifications post-apprenticeship. Our collaborative culture and commitment to employee development ensure that you will not only contribute to exciting projects but also build a rewarding career in engineering.
Contact Details:
SMC Corporation (UK) Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Technician Apprentice in Milton Keynes
✨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 SMC Corporation (UK) Limited’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 Design Technician Apprentice in Milton Keynes
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for an engineering apprenticeship at SMC Corporation (UK) Limited, 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 SMC Corporation (UK) Limited 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 SMC Corporation (UK) Limited 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 SMC Corporation (UK) Limited
✨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 SMC Corporation (UK) Limited.
✨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 SMC Corporation (UK) Limited.
✨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 SMC Corporation (UK) Limited, demonstrating that you're ready to dive into the learning experience.
