Compressed air and vacuum technician
Level 3 · AdvancedEngineering and manufacturing 3 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
The Compressed Air and Vacuum Technician apprenticeship trains you to install, maintain, and repair compressed air systems and industrial vacuum equipment used across manufacturing, food production, and processing industries. You will work on compressors, pipework, valves, dryers, and ancillary equipment, ensuring systems operate safely and efficiently. This Level 3 role leads to careers with compressed air specialists or in-house engineering teams.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Principles of compressed air generation, distribution, and end-use applications
How industrial vacuum systems work and where they are used
Maintenance and fault diagnosis on rotary screw and reciprocating compressors
Pipework systems, pressure vessels, and pressure safety legislation
Electrical principles relevant to motor-driven compressor control systems
Energy efficiency and leak detection in compressed air networks
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Service compressors by changing filters, oil, belts, and valve assemblies
Carry out planned preventive maintenance visits at customer sites
Diagnose mechanical and electrical faults using pressure gauges and data loggers
Install new pipework, connections, and pneumatic components
Carry out leak detection surveys and repair air loss on distribution networks
Complete service records and report findings to the customer
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.
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What it’s really like
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