Free Level 2 Engineering Course in Chelmsford

CostFREE
Duration14 months
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryWork based
Start1 Sep 2026
Awarding bodyEAL awarding body

About this course

Free Level 2 Engineering Course. Work-based training at your workplace, earning while you learn over 14 months.

You'll build core engineering skills on the job. The course covers reading engineering drawings and specifications, understanding workplace regulations, and applying engineering processes safely. You can specialise in areas such as mechanical manufacturing, electrical and electronic engineering, fabrication, or maintenance. You'll need GCSE grades 9 to 1, or a Level 1 or Level 2 Functional Skills qualification in English and Maths, to enrol.

You'll finish with a Level 2 Diploma in Engineering Operations.

Who this course is for

Engineering Operatives are predominantly involved in engineering operations which are key to the success of the Manufacturing and Engineering sector allowing employers to grow their business while developing a work force with the relevant skills and knowledge to enhance the sustain the sector.

The role covers a wide range of common and job specific skills sets that can be transferred across the manufacturing engineering industry sectors during the course of their careers. Dependent on the sector that they are employed in, there may be subtle differences in terms of composition and application of the job role specific skills and knowledge they will require, however the core skills and knowledge will be the same regardless of the sector/area they work in.

Entry requirements

GCSE grades 9-1 OR Level 1 or Level 2 Functional Skills qualification in English and Maths.

For further entry requirement information, please email [email protected] as these can vary by individual.

What you will learn

  • You'll read and interpret engineering drawings, job instructions, and specifications.
  • You'll apply engineering operational practices, processes, and procedures.
  • You'll work safely at all times and manage risks within your role.
  • You'll identify and respond to problems appropriately.
  • You'll communicate effectively in an engineering workplace.
  • You'll develop specialist skills in one area, such as mechanical manufacturing, electrical and electronic engineering, fabrication, or maintenance.
  • You'll understand your responsibilities within your organisation and the wider engineering sector.

How you will learn

You'll learn on the job, applying skills directly in your workplace. Assessment is through a combination of on-the-job observation, a knowledge test, and a professional discussion or interview. A workplace mentor and a college assessor will support you throughout. You'll build a portfolio of evidence showing your competence across the core and specialist requirements of the role.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Chelmsford College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Engineering operative, carries out manufacturing and engineering tasks on the production floor.
  • Maintenance technician, keeps machinery and equipment running safely.
  • Fabricator, cuts, shapes, and assembles metal components.
  • Electrical engineering operative, supports electrical and electronic engineering operations.
  • Manufacturing operative, works within production processes across a range of industries.
  • Technical support operative, provides hands-on support to engineering teams.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Advanced Manufacturing Engineering Qualification, a natural next step for engineering operatives moving into more technical or supervisory roles.
  • Level 3 Engineering Apprenticeship, deepens specialist knowledge in your chosen engineering discipline.
  • HNC in Engineering (Level 4), for those looking to move into higher technical or management roles within the sector.

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