Summary
As an apprentice at Darvick you would be heavily involved in the design and manufacture of mechanical test lab machines and will directly support one of the directors with day-to-day maintenance and development.
What you will do at work
- Working with the Technical Director on the design, build and validation of new equipment / fixtures for in-house use or customer supply.
- Using SolidWorks to produce 3D models and 2D drawings for new designs for machines and fixtures.
- Liaising with suppliers for machining and order parts / equipment.
- Researching suppliers for suitable materials and components.
- Working with other staff to assemble, test and operate machines and test systems.
- Problem solving and fault finding when machines break down or do not work as expected.
- Producing parts on 3D printer.
- Work as part of a team to deliver projects.
This role will involve a mixture of desk work doing designs and models, researching materials and suppliers, and hands-on work assembling testing and operating machines.
The role is suited to someone who likes varied and challenging work, is willing to use their initiative and take responsibility, where they are fully involved with the entire team.
Training
- You will be required to attend Advance 1 Campus, Dudley College, DY1 4AD, 1 day per week in term time only.
- You will be assigned an assessor who will visit you and undertake Teams Meetings to support you on your apprenticeship.
- Upon successful completion of your apprenticeship, you will receive a Level 4 Engineering Manufacturing Technician (mechanical) HNC apprenticeship qualification.
Requirements and skills
Skills
- Communication skills
- IT skills
- Attention to detail
- Organisation skills
- Problem solving skills
- Number skills
- Adaptable
- Flexible
- Honest
- Respectful
- Professional
Qualifications
- GCSE English Language or Literature (6/B/Functional Skills Level 2) – essential
- GCSE maths (6/B/Functional Skills Level 2) – essential
- Level 3 T Level or Level 3 Full-time Course Engineering (Pass, Merit or Distinction) – essential
About this employer
Darvick Ltd is an independent, sub-contract testing laboratory. We have UKAS flexible scope accreditation (Lab 26942), and Rolls Royce Technical Approval for tests we carry out for them as a customer. We are a small company, with our own software, electronics and mechanical design staff, meaning we can respond quickly in-house to develop and deliver unique testing capability for customers. Our speciality is non-standard, complex or extreme testing services and equipment, we are currently developing testing methods and equipment to support the hydrogen economy. As a small and very dynamic company any apprentice will be aware of all aspects of the business operation. We develop unique equipment, the role is suited to someone who likes to be working on solving problems and trying out new technology, not a routine role.
After this apprenticeship
We are looking for someone who would wish to continue in this role with Darvick after their apprenticeship as a full-time Project Engineer.
Things to consider
We have two Great Danes on-site and therefore it is important the candidate is comfortable with large dogs.
Additional requirements:-
- Experience with using SolidWorks is preferable.
- Basic understanding of engineering or manufacturing principles.
- Interest in mechanical engineering and manufacturing processes.
- Good practical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to use hand tools and measuring equipment (or willingness to learn).
- Good commitment to producing high-quality work.
- Ability to follow technical drawings, instructions, and procedures.
- Awareness of health and safety practices in a workshop or manufacturing environment.
- Time management skills.
- Enthusiastic and eager to learn new skills.
- Positive attitude with a strong work ethic.
- Willingness to take initiative and support colleagues when needed.
- The ability to work on a variety of tasks.