Mechanical Technician Apprentice in Sheffield

The University of Sheffield is a remarkable place to work. Our people are at the heart of everything we do. Their diverse backgrounds, abilities and beliefs make Sheffield a world-class university.

We are seeking an initiative-taking committed individual to join our Engineering & Maintenance Team within the Department of Estates & Facilities Management as a Mechanical Technician Apprentice. This role is a structured training programme combining practical on-the-job training with formal learning in an educational setting and offers the opportunity to develop skills to progress on the engineering and maintenance career path. As an Apprentice you will undertake learning and development activities leading to an accredited NVQ level 3.

Reporting to Operations Manager, you will undertake planned and reactive mechanical maintenance tasks across the University estate to support key University activities, and you will play a pivotal role in maintaining the high-quality infrastructure necessary to support world-class teaching, research, and the overall student experience. The ability to quickly build and maintain excellent working relationships and to work effectively on your own initiative as well as being a team member is essential. The University is a fast-paced and changeable environment, so you will need to be able to adopt a flexible approach and be self-motivated to provide quality services to a wide range of customers.

Planned maintenance will form a large majority of daily activity ensuring that the University complies with statutory requirements, ensuring it is a safe place for all our customers. Most of the work is of a physical nature requiring manual handling and working at heights to undertake a range of tasks to adjust, install and/or repair fixtures and fittings. Knowledge of Health and Safety guidelines would be advantageous; however, full training will be given through the apprenticeship and on-the-job training.

Main Duties And Responsibilities

• Carry out planned and reactive Mechanical maintenance safely and efficiently across the University estate ensuring procedures are followed correctly under supervision.
• Work in compliance with the University’s policies, procedures, current technical legislation and health and safety standards.
• As directed by the appropriate supervisor, prioritise jobs in order of urgency using relevant knowledge, skills, experience and expertise taking into consideration deadlines, health and safety requirements, resource availability, service standards and customer needs.
• Carry out periodic testing and inspection of equipment and building installations identifying and recording details for future rectification.
• Liaise with and maintain good relationships with key stakeholders ensuring they are informed of work being undertaken and kept up to date with progress.
• Maintain provided tools, equipment and/or vehicles, taking responsibility for the safe keeping of these. Complete regular checks on vehicles to maintain good condition.
• Respond to requests for assistance at the University outside normal working hours in accordance with the departments’ call-out procedures, supporting where appropriate once competent.
• Respond to general queries from our customers (staff, students, visitors) in relevant work area and/or signpost queries.
• Attend relevant training and complete assignments as part of the apprenticeship programme along with off-the-job training elements.
• Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.

Person Specification

• GCSE Grade A-C 9/4 in Maths, English or ability to pass functional skills tests in these subjects during the selection process for applicants without these qualifications. (Essential)
• A commitment to completing the apprenticeship programme and engaging in all on and off the job training and development activities. (Essential)
• This post will be funded through the Apprenticeship Levy and the postholder must meet the eligibility criteria outlined by the Government. (Essential)
• Demonstrate effective two-way communication skills to engage with a wide variety of customers and colleagues in a professional manner. (Essential)
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and be supportive of colleagues in addition to being able to work on own initiative, planning and prioritising tasks where necessary. (Essential)
• Demonstrate an understanding of health and safety with the ability to identify potential hazards and risks. (Desirable)
• Demonstrate a positive and flexible approach and ability to adapt well to change. (Essential)
• Commitment to providing high standards of customer service. (Essential)
• Ability to follow and work to a schedule and/or instructions and apply a methodical, logical and practical approach to tasks. (Essential)
• Full valid UK driving license. (Desirable)

Further Information

Grade: Apprentice
Salary: Work arrangement: Full-time – with college studies.
Duration: October 2026, for a duration of 3-years.
Line manager: Operations Manager
Direct reports: None

This role does not meet the criteria for Skilled Worker sponsorship under the UK Visa & Immigration points-based system.

Closing Date: 30/09/2026