Manufacturing manager (integrated degree)
Level 6 · DegreeEngineering and manufacturing 3.5 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
A manufacturing manager at degree level (level 6 integrated degree) leads the planning, operation, and continuous improvement of manufacturing functions, managing people, processes, and resources to meet quality, cost, and delivery targets. Apprentices develop strategic management competency alongside deep technical and operational knowledge. The role leads to operations manager, plant manager, or manufacturing director positions.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Strategic operations management including capacity planning, scheduling, and inventory control
Advanced lean and operational excellence methodologies
Financial management relevant to manufacturing including P&L ownership and capital investment
People leadership including workforce planning, performance management, and culture change
Supply chain management and how to develop and manage supplier relationships
Engineering governance including product safety, regulatory compliance, and quality management systems
Digital manufacturing and how to exploit data and automation for competitive advantage
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Set and manage production plans to meet customer demand and business targets
Lead operational improvement programmes across safety, quality, cost, and delivery
Manage a manufacturing team including recruitment, development, and performance conversations
Own the manufacturing budget and report on financial performance to senior leadership
Develop supplier relationships and manage supply chain performance issues
Champion health, safety, and environmental compliance across the manufacturing site
Drive the adoption of digital manufacturing tools and data-driven decision-making
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 6 (Degree) - roughly Bachelor’s-degree level. Usually needs A-levels or a Level 3 qualification (employers set UCAS-point targets). You earn a full degree while you work - with no tuition fees to pay.
What’s next: Leads into professional roles, sometimes with a Level 7 (Master’s) apprenticeship after.
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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