The Pickering Group is a family-owned, UK-based electronics manufacturer established in 1968, specializing in high-quality switching, simulation, and relay products for industries like aerospace, automotive, and defense.
The Apprentice Engineering & Manufacturing Support Technician will support the Production, Manufacturing Engineering, and Design Engineering teams in the manufacture and development of reed relays and associated products. The role involves operating, maintaining, and supporting production machinery, including equipment used within the winding room and across manufacturing lines. The apprentice will also support the introduction of newly developed machines and processes into production and assist with troubleshooting and continuous improvement activities. Alongside engineering support duties, the apprentice will contribute to day‑to‑day production activities and support new product integration by providing practical feedback on manufacturing techniques, tooling, jigs, and processes. The successful candidate will complete the Level 3 Engineering and Manufacturing Support Technician apprenticeship standard and attend college on a day‑release basis.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the operation and maintenance of manufacturing equipment used in production.
- Maintain equipment across the production line, including welder calibration, dehumidifier maintenance, air plumbing systems, and production floor layout adjustments.
- Support with machine setting and operation.
- Assist production teams where required to meet manufacturing demands.
- Learn and understand the operation of all production machinery to support troubleshooting and fault finding.
- Support the introduction of new machinery and processes into manufacturing.
- Build duplicate production machines from engineering schematics and drawings once designs have been approved and validated.
- Test and evaluate new manufacturing processes and techniques, providing feedback to engineering teams.
- Develop and maintain process instructions and manufacturing documentation.
- Use measurement tools and inspection equipment to verify components, tooling, and assemblies meet specification requirements.
- Support quality inspection and testing activities.
- Follow all company health, safety, and quality procedures.
Departmental Training & Development Exposure
- Hardware Engineering – Build simple electronic circuits and develop understanding of basic electronics and PCB assemblies.
- Mechanical Engineering – Design simple mechanical parts/components and use CAD and 3D printing technology.
- Stores & Materials Control – Goods‑in inspection, kit picking, stock control systems and VSS operation.
- SMT (Surface Mount Technology) – Programming pick‑and‑place machines, ODB and BOM collation, SMT component recognition, screen printing operations, paste application theory, machine setup and operation, AOI, and vapour phase soldering.
- Production Assembly – Use of production documentation, BOMs, through‑hole component insertion, relay assembly, wave soldering, hand soldering, wire preparation, crimping, and swash machine operation.
- Inspection & Quality – Roving inspection, continuity checking, and final inspection processes.
- Test Engineering – Product testing procedures and understanding of production test methods and equipment.
Skills, Knowledge & Competencies
- Basic understanding of electrical and mechanical engineering principles.
- Ability to use basic hand tools safely and effectively.
- Understanding of manufacturing processes and production environments.
- Ability to interpret basic engineering drawings, schematics, and work instructions.
- Understanding of measurement and inspection techniques.
- Basic computer literacy including Microsoft Word and Excel.
- Attention to detail and appreciation of quality standards.
- Ability to work with miniature and precision components.
- Methodical and logical approach to problem solving.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
- Reliable and dependable approach to work.
- Awareness of workplace health and safety requirements.
- Practical mindset with an interest in engineering and manufacturing.
- Flexible approach to tasks and responsibilities.
Working Relationships
- Production Teams
- Manufacturing Engineering
- Design Engineering
- Test Engineering
- Quality & Inspection
- Stores & Logistics
- Training & Development
Structured on‑the‑job training.
Cross‑departmental exposure.
Mentoring and support from experienced engineers and technicians.
College‑based learning aligned to the apprenticeship standard.
Opportunities to develop practical engineering and manufacturing skills across multiple disciplines.
Qualifications & Experience
Interest in engineering, manufacturing, or technology.
Willingness to complete the Level 3 Engineering and Manufacturing Support Technician apprenticeship standard.
Commitment to attending college as part of the apprenticeship program.
Practical experience through hobbies, projects, school work, or previous employment is desirable.
Experience using hand tools, soldering equipment, or mechanical equipment is advantageous.
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM PICKERING
People are at the heart of Pickering. We believe that each employee contributes directly to Pickering’s growth and success, in return we offer:
- A competitive salary
- 25 days annual leave, plus bank holidays. Buying and selling holiday. Employees can buy up to 10 days if eligible.
- Life Insurance x4 annual salary, capped at £50k
- Corporate membership at the local gym and spa
- A thorough induction program, including a Pickering Pal being assigned to you to ensure you feel welcome and to check in on you during your probation
- Regular reviews and performance related pay increases (subject to business conditions)
- Employee wellbeing and mental health support through our partnership with Mind EAP with Sparks (Legal & General health and wellbeing digital home)
- Wellbeing Program with Spa Medical
- Choice of salary sacrifice on Pension contributions
- Paid company social events such as a summer festival and Christmas party
- Career progression
- Training programmes
- Sponsoring further education
- Salary sacrifice car scheme
- Potential for Worldwide Business Travel (role dependant)
- Free tea, coffee, and fresh fruit
The Pickering Group is a family‑owned, UK‑based electronics manufacturer established in 1968, specializing in high‑quality switching, simulation, and relay products for industries like aerospace, automotive, and defense. It comprises Pickering Electronics (relays), Pickering Interfaces (switching/simulation), and Pickering Connect (cabling), with global operations.
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