Job Description

Metrology Apprentice

Science and Technology Facilities Council

Salary: £11,925 per annum rising incrementally to £16,608 in the third year

Hours: Full time (37 hours per week)

Contract Type: Fixed Term for 3 years

Location: Science and Technology Facilities Council, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory Harwell, Oxfordshire

Start Date: September 2023

The Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) has over 25 years’ experience in providing engineering apprenticeships and is an excellent training ground to equip individuals with relevant skills and experience in mechanical engineering. We offer a competitive salary that increases annually, 4 years supervised training and additional core skills development.

STFC’s Dimensional Metrology Facility is looking to recruit a Dimensional Metrology Apprentice to join us in September 2023. We provide advanced technology and engineering in support of STFC’s funded activities and other high-profile international projects. We offer expertise in metrology as part of the Technology Department.

What is Dimensional Metrology?

Metrology is the science of measurement and its application. The globally-agreed system of measurement units was formally named the 'International System of Units' (SI) in 1960. At the heart of the SI is a set of seven units for every type of measurement, and are known as the ‘base units’. The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) in Teddington, London maintains our nation's primary measurement standards within the SI system. We focus on the SI base unit of length the Metre.

What does the Dimensional Metrology facility do?

The facility is responsible for inspecting all characteristics of manufactured components used in projects and experiments at STFC, checking and reporting that they conform to the design tolerances on engineering drawings. Dimensional measurement is used to quantify the size and shape of component features and is key to ensuring products perform as intended. This involves using a variety of specialised precision measuring equipment within the facility.

Through the training provider, the National Physical Laboratory, you will undertake a 3-year Level 3 Metrology Technician apprenticeship standard which will include:

• Fully recognised apprenticeship qualification
• On-the-job competency training
• Theoretical knowledge

You will be required to attend the National Physical Laboratory (6 blocks a year) as part of your training; you must therefore be willing and able to travel independently. Excess travel and subsistence costs will be covered.

About an Apprenticeship at STFC

With training and support from experts in their fields, you’ll be enthusiastic about developing your knowledge, skills and behaviours, working towards completing your apprenticeship, gaining appropriate qualifications whilst making a real difference in your role.

If working with innovative technologies on world-leading research isn’t enough, you will develop both professionally and as a critical member of the team in an environment you won’t find anywhere else.

Our dedicated Apprenticeship Team will support you every step of the way, helping you make the most of your opportunities and to achieve the goals you already have – and those you have yet to discover!

We provide an opportunity to really pursue your interests and passion. You’ll have access to additional core skills development, access to a community of apprentices across the site, annual Apprentice awards evenings, a number of active sport and social groups across campus, and potential opportunities for overseas placements.

STFC offers a benefits package crafted to provide an excellent work/life balance including 30 days’ annual leave, an outstanding index linked pension scheme, 10.5 public and privilege days, Christmas closure and flexible working hours.

For a list of our full benefits, please visit here:

• https://stfccareers.co.uk/rewards-and-benefits/

Extensive training will be provided as this role will involve:

• Attending the Level 3 Metrology Technician course at the National Physical Laboratory in week blocks (6 blocks a year, 3 year course)
• Inspecting engineering components to engineering drawings
• Understanding engineering drawings and the use of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing
• To operate all machines within the facility when inspecting parts, utilising CAD driven measuring and reporting software
• Produce concise and detailed measurement reports and documents for scientific and engineering staff
• To liaise with customers about inspection jobs and if needed present your results to them.
• To follow safe working practices and organisational policies, procedures and requirements relating to health and safety
• To take action when non-conforming tools, equipment, instrumentation, materials and software programs have been identified
• To prepare the work environment and perform tests and checks on measurement tools, equipment, instrumentation and software programs and determine suitability for use

What is expected of the candidate?

• A focus on quality and to maintain concentration with a high level of attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to solve technical problems evaluating alternative courses of action where necessary
• Be self-motivated and inquisitive, being confident to speak up and challenge when appropriate
• Be committed to learning and continuous improvement
• Work with and respect others by working flexibly and collaboratively as part of a small team and showing commitment to equality and diversity
• Act professionally, ethically and conscientiously by adhering to relevant legislation, regulation, standards, and organisational procedures and demonstrate accountability and reliability
• Plan and manage time effectively and prioritise workloads to meet deadlines and customer requirements

Person specification (Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills and any special requirements)

In order to apply for the role, we are looking for the following:

Essential:

• Achieved or predicted to achieve 5 GCSE passes at Grade C/4 or above including Maths, English and a STEM subject by September 2023 (or equivalent qualifications)
• Ability to demonstrate and convey an interest and basic technical engineering knowledge and skill
• Ability to follow instructions including technical instructions
• Self-motivated; willing to undertake the work required with the training provider and in the workplace
• Attention to detail
• Good communication skills

Desirable:

• Demonstration of practical skills from a previous project; this could be through a hobby, from work, school or collegePlease tell us about this in your application

What could you achieve with the world-leading facilities and experts of one of Europe’s largest research organisations by your side?

Job Types: Full-time, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 36 months

Salary: From £11,925.00 per year

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person

Reference ID: 2300008J

Similar Jobs