Manufacturing / Press Operator Apprentice

Introduction

The Apprentice Sheet Metal Worker will support the fabrication, assembly, and finishing of sheet metal products while gaining hands-on experience and formal training. This role is designed to develop practical skills, technical knowledge, and safe working practices within a manufacturing environment.

About the Employer

SOTECH IS A LEADING DESIGNER AND MANUFACTURER OF THE OPTIMA RANGE OF ENGINEERED METAL RAINSCREEN CLADDING AND ARCHITECTURAL FABRICATION. Sotech offers a range of rainscreen cladding solutions, from traditional to contemporary, to bring a project to life. Sotech is at the forefront of rainscreen cladding design, having developed a comprehensive suite of systems. Able to support natural materials such as copper, zinc, stainless steel and aluminium, as well as aluminium composite material, our systems provide architects and specifiers an almost limitless choice, enabling their individual design intent to be fully realised.

What You'll Do

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist with the cutting, bending, forming, welding, stud welding and assembling of rainscreen components
• Operate basic machinery (under supervision), such as guillotines, press brakes, and CNC equipment
• Interpret simple engineering drawings and specifications
• Support senior fabricators and machinists in day-to-day production tasks
• Carry out basic quality checks to ensure products meet required standards
• Maintain a clean, organised, and safe working environment
• Follow all health and safety procedures and company policies at all times
• Participate in training programmes (college-based and on-the-job learning)
• Record work progress and learning as part of the apprenticeship programme

Training Outcome

Successful completion of the apprenticeship may lead to:

• Fully skilled Sheet Metal Worker
• CNC Operator / Fabricator
• Team Leader opportunities with experience

Skills Required

• Attention to detail
• Organisation skills
• Problem solving skills
• Number skills
• Logical
• Team working
• Patience
• Physical fitness

Qualifications

• Essential - GCSE - GCSE English - C/4 or above
• Essential - GCSE - GCSE Maths - C/4 or above

Course Information

Course: Metal fabricator (level 3)

Level: 3

Route: Engineering and manufacturing

Apprenticeship Level: Advanced

Working Arrangements

Working Week: Monday - Thursday 7.00am - 4.00pm and Friday 7.00am - 11.00am.

Expected Duration: 3 Years 6 Months

Number of Positions Available: 3

Training Provider: EAST DURHAM COLLEGE