Careers start here.

This course provides you with a theoretical grounding in engineering and will give you a broad understanding of the huge possibilities within the engineering industry. It allows you to move on to higher education or to an advanced apprenticeship where you can further specialise.

This occupation is part of the Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering (AME) sector, which includes Aerospace, Automotive, Maritime Defence, Nuclear, and Construction industries. Machining Technicians produce complex, precision-machined products for machinery, such as aeroplanes and vehicles, as well as bespoke components for domestic appliances and medical equipment. They operate various machines, including centre lathes, milling machines, grinding machines, and CNC machine tools.

The main purpose of this role is to machine components from metals or specialist materials using both conventional and CNC tools. Technicians plan their activities, set up and adjust machine settings, and create and validate CNC programs. They also inspect components, report issues, and support continuous improvement, typically in a manufacturing environment.

This role is found across industries such as aerospace, automotive, defence, logistics, pharmaceuticals, energy, and advanced manufacturing, where automated systems blend mechanical, electrical, electronic, and fluid power technologies.

The primary goal is to maintain equipment and ensure optimal performance to meet safety, quality, and cost targets. Multi-skilled mechatronics maintenance technicians handle tasks such as installation, testing, fault diagnosis, and planned maintenance of complex automated machinery. They operate across multiple disciplines, including electrical, mechanical, and control systems, while following safety standards. Technicians also document and communicate their work and may work shifts, at height, in confined spaces, or with hazardous equipment.