Digital device repair technician
Level 3 · AdvancedDigital 1.8 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
Digital device repair technicians diagnose and fix faults in smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other consumer electronics. You will work in a repair shop, service centre, or for an employer with a large device estate, using diagnostic tools and replacing components such as screens, batteries, and circuit boards. The role offers progression into technical team leadership or specialisation in specific device types or brands.
On the job
What you’ll learn
How mobile devices, laptops, and tablets are constructed and how they work
Diagnostic software and tools for identifying hardware and software faults
Component-level repair techniques including soldering and micro-soldering
Data backup, recovery, and customer data protection principles
Health and safety when working with batteries, chemicals, and ESD-sensitive parts
Customer communication and managing repair expectations
Warranty, returns, and consumer rights relevant to device repair
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Diagnose device faults using visual inspection and diagnostic software
Replace screens, batteries, charging ports, and other components
Perform data backups before starting any repair work
Update device firmware and troubleshoot software issues
Communicate repair progress and costs clearly to customers
Complete repair job sheets and update the management system
Maintain a clean, organised workspace and handle parts safely
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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