Apprentice Manufacturing Technician - FTC

ipTEST is a growing company in an exciting high technology area at the forefront of new developments powering the green revolution.

We are a dedicated, engineering-based organisation with the skills to meet the demanding needs of our growing customer base of semiconductor device manufacturers around the world. We develop solutions for testing challenging new green power technologies such as GaN and SiC, as well as for the latest generation of MOSFETs, IGBT’s, diodes, SCR’s and bipolars.

ipTEST is headquartered in the UK, with applications and support facilities in Malaysia and Japan. We are part of the Microtest Group and work closely with the other Microtest companies in Italy, Germany, The Netherlands and USA.

We have a track record of investing in our people and work hard to ensure that all our staff are well informed, well trained and well-motivated to be completely responsive to our customer needs.

Product development is core to our existence, and we have introduced a significant new product nearly every year since our origins in the early 1980's. Our Mostrak test platform has been through constant cycles of renewal, whilst always retaining compatibility. We operate seamlessly between our Engineering, Manufacture and Test, Customer Support and Technical Sales groups. Our success also lies in investing in and working closely with our external manufacturing base to ensure we are as responsive and nimble as possible whilst drawing on the experience and production efficiency of our family of dedicated CEM partners and OEM manufacturers. Above all, ipTEST is responsive.

About this role:

This apprenticeship provides a structured pathway toward becoming a qualified Manufacturing Technician. You will gain hands‑on experience across core engineering support functions, learning how components, materials, and production processes interact in a modern manufacturing environment.

A key focus of the role is developing the skills required to support engineering and production activities, including understanding engineering drawings, preparing components for assembly, supporting continuous improvement initiatives, maintaining documentation, and learning the principles of quality, safety, and process control. Throughout the apprenticeship, you will work closely with experienced engineers and technicians to build the knowledge, skills, and behaviours required for Manufacturing Technician status.

The role is based in Guildford, UK and reports to the Senior Manufacturing Engineer.

Key Skills

Technical

(Training provided; apprentices are not expected to be fully skilled at entry.)

Learn to interpret engineering drawings, work orders, and technical instructions.
Develop competency in preparing components and materials for manufacturing and assembly.
Gain understanding of manufacturing workflows, production sequencing, and process efficiency.
Learn fundamental engineering technician skills, including:

- Measurement and inspection techniques
- Use of basic hand tools and engineering equipment
- Recording technical data accurately for traceability

Support continuous improvement projects (Lean methods, 5S, waste reduction).
Build awareness of engineering quality standards, product checks, and defect reporting.
Develop safe working habits in line with engineering safety procedures and risk assessments.

Key Skills

Personal

Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate, high‑quality work.
Positive, motivated attitude with a strong desire to learn and progress in engineering.
Ability to work effectively as part of an engineering team.
Professional communication skills, including asking questions and seeking clarity when needed.
Reliable and punctual, with the ability to follow structured processes and safety guidelines.
Curious, problem‑solving mindset with an interest in how systems and processes work.
Takes responsibility for tasks, feedback, and personal development.

Experience

Essential

(Appropriate for entry‑level apprentices.)

Good standard of spoken and written English.
Solid numeracy skills to support measurement, calculations, and technical documentation.
Demonstrable interest in engineering, manufacturing, STEM subjects, or practical/technical activities.
Evidence of attention to detail and reliability (school projects, extracurriculars, hobbies like robotics, mechanics, or design technology).

Experience

Preferred

(Not required — full training provided.)

Any exposure to engineering, manufacturing, workshop, or practical technical environments.
Familiarity with following instructions, diagrams, or structured procedures.
GCSEs or equivalent (particularly Maths, English, Science, or Design & Technology).
Full UK driving licence (desirable but not essential).
Interest in progressing toward Engineering Technician (EngTech) status with further training and assessment.

What’s in it for you:

This position is full‑time and fixed‑term for the length of the apprenticeship, and comes with a competitive salary and a comprehensive range of benefits, including:

Comprehensive private medical cover including optical and dental support, giving you complete peace of mind.
26 days of annual leave plus all UK bank holidays.
Convenient on‑site parking for all employees, making your commute simple and stress free.
Regular social events, team activities, and company gatherings that help build a supportive, friendly workplace culture.
A competitive pension scheme to support your long‑term financial wellbeing.

ipTEST

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Apprentice Manufacturing Technician - FTC