Apprentice Design Engineer

Overview

Telford

Sales

Full time

Permanent

The Whittan Group is the largest manufacturer of steel storage products in the United Kingdom. Operating through a number of market leading brands we design, manufacture and install storage solutions for commercial and industrial environments in the UK and Europe.

We are looking for a Apprentice Design Engineer, who will support the design team in producing high-quality technical drawings, layouts, and Bills of Materials while learning the principles of compliant engineering design. This role provides hands-on experience with CAD software, exposure to industry regulations, and opportunities to collaborate with multiple departments. The purpose of the apprenticeship is to develop the knowledge, skills, and behaviours required to progress into a fully qualified Design Engineer role.

Responsibilities

• Assist with evaluating technical requirements and support senior engineers in reviewing customer needs and project specifications, learning how to develop compliant and practical design solutions.
• Support in producing layouts and technical drawings. Use CAD software under guidance to create accurate drawings and layouts, building confidence in applying design principles.
• Help generate Bills of Materials (BOMs). Assist with preparing BOMs for system entry, ensuring all parts are listed correctly and learning how components are specified.
• Learn about industry regulations and standards. Gain knowledge of CDM 2015 regulations and SEMA/FEM codes of practice, understanding how compliance influences design.
• Contribute to design costings. Support the sales and design teams by helping prepare design costings, developing awareness of commercial considerations.
• Provide technical support. Offer assistance to colleagues and stakeholders where possible, escalating queries to senior engineers as appropriate.
• Collaborate across departments. Work closely with colleagues in sales, projects, and operations, developing teamwork and communication skills to support project success.

Required Experience / Skills / Qualifications

Skills & Attributes

• Genuine interest in engineering, design, and problem-solving
• Eagerness to learn and develop technical skills (CAD experience is a plus but not essential)
• Attention to detail with good numeracy and IT skills
• Strong communication skills and willingness to work as part of a team
• Enthusiastic, proactive, and reliable approach to work

Qualifications

• GCSEs (or equivalent) in Maths, English, and Science – essential
• A-levels or a Level 3 qualification in a relevant subject (e.g., Engineering, Design & Technology) – desirable
• Willingness to work towards an industry-recognised qualification (e.g., HNC/HND, Degree Apprenticeship)

Company Benefits

• Competitive Salary
• 33 days holiday per annum including bank holidays
• Company pension
• Life assurance
• Employee discount scheme
• Long Service Awards
• Monthly STAR Awards
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Support from Trained Mental Health First Aiders
• Cycle2Work Scheme
• Medicash Scheme
• Flexi Holiday Scheme

The Whittan Group promotes equality of opportunity in that everyone who works for us and any job applicants will be treated equally, regardless of gender or gender reassignment, age, ethnic or national origin, nationality, race, colour, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, disability, sexual orientation, religion or belief.