Engineering design technician
Level 3 · AdvancedEngineering and manufacturing 3.5 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
Engineering design technicians produce technical drawings, models, and documentation to support engineering design projects across sectors including manufacturing, construction, aerospace, and automotive. You will use CAD software to create detailed designs, working from engineers' briefs and turning concepts into accurate technical drawings that others can build from. It is a great entry point into engineering that can lead to design engineer, CAD manager, or project engineer roles.
On the job
What you’ll learn
2D and 3D CAD software for mechanical and structural design
Engineering drawing standards: BS 8888, tolerancing, and GD&T
Basic engineering principles: materials, forces, and manufacturing processes
Design review processes and working to design briefs
Document control: revision management, drawing registers, and PDM systems
Technical communication: written specifications and design reports
Basic finite element analysis or stress calculation tools where appropriate
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Produce detailed engineering drawings from design briefs or concept sketches
Create and update 3D CAD models as designs develop and change
Check drawings for errors and ensure they comply with relevant standards
Submit drawings for review and incorporate feedback from engineers
Manage drawing revisions and update the document control register
Support design engineers by researching materials, components, or standards
Produce technical documentation such as parts lists and assembly instructions
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 3 (Advanced) - roughly A-level level. Employers usually look for some GCSEs (often English & maths around grade 4/C) or a Level 2 apprenticeship first. English & maths can sometimes be finished during training.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 4/5 (Higher) apprenticeship, or straight into the role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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