Tappex - Level 3 Machining Technician Apprenticeship
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Company: Tappex Thread Inserts Limited
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Location: Stratford-upon-Avon, CV37 9NT
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Type: Apprenticeship
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Salary: £278.84 per week
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Sector: Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies
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Ref: VAC-00768
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Application Deadline Date: 31/07/2025
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Start Date: 17/09/2025
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Positions Available: 2
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Working Week: Mon - Thur 8am to 4.30pm and Fri 8am to 2pm
Brief Description
Looking to get hands-on in the world of manufacturing? Join our team as a Davenport Setter and learn how to set up and run precision machinery that keeps production moving. You’ll gain real experience working with tools, reading engineering drawings, and supporting new team members — all in a busy, supportive workshop environment.
Qualifications Required
5 GCSEs at 9 – 4 / A* - C (5 or above preferred), must include maths, English language, and ideally Science, or equivalent related qualification.
Personal Qualities
• Dependable in both attendance and work ethic.
• Eager to develop skills and expand knowledge of a Davenport Machine Setter
• Open to feedback and proactive in seeking out learning opportunities.
• Uses initiative to find solutions efficiently and safely.
• Able to switch between different tasks and adapt to changing priorities.
• Works well under pressure, especially during breakdowns or urgent repairs.
• Communicates well with colleagues and works collaboratively.
• Supports team objectives and contributes positively to group tasks.
• Understands the importance of safety in a manufacturing environment.
Skills Required
• A willingness to learn and a proactive approach.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• An interest in engineering and manufacturing.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team.
Training to be Provided
Together with invaluable commercial and practical experience, you’ll gain several academic and vocational qualifications throughout your time with us and Make UK, which are fully paid for, including:
● Advanced Manufacturing Engineering Practical Foundation Training – in year 1, in 6 week blocks to include 4 weeks at Make UK and 2 weeks in company
● Advanced Manufacturing Engineering Workplace Competence Training - in years 2 to 4 in company
● Level 3 BTEC Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering Development Knowledge - in Years 1, 2 & 3 on block release to Make UK
● In house training in line with your requirements.
● Further qualifications deemed necessary by your employer
On completion of your studies and End Point Assessment (EPA), you will achieve your full apprenticeship certification that will prove competence as a Level 3 Engineering Technician.
Future Prospects
Future Prospects of a Davenport Machine Setter
Becoming a Davenport Machine Setter is an excellent starting point for a long-term career in precision engineering and manufacturing. With experience, skill development, and the right attitude, there are several clear progression routes within a company like Tappex:
1. Senior Machine Setter
• Take on responsibility for more complex changeovers and troubleshooting.
• Support junior setters and operators with training and mentoring.
• Help improve machine utilisation and reduce downtime.
2. Production Supervisor / Team Leader
• Step into a leadership role, managing a team of setters and operators.
• Oversee daily machine shop operations, shift planning, and performance metrics.
• Act as a key link between production and engineering.
Vacancy Detail
Looking to get hands-on in the world of manufacturing? Join our team as a Davenport Setter and learn how to set up and run precision machinery that keeps production moving. You’ll gain real experience working with tools, reading engineering drawings, and supporting new team members — all in a busy, supportive workshop environment. Ideal for someone starting out with a passion for problem-solving and learning by doing! Salary £14,500 per annum plus travel allowance. You will spend 4 weeks at Make UK in Aston, Birmingham and 2 weeks at Tappex throughout your first year.
COMPANY
a) Tappex is a market leader in the design and manufacture of high-quality threaded inserts for plastics, metals, and composite materials. With over 60 years of expertise, our innovative solutions are trusted by major industries worldwide, including automotive, aerospace, electronics, and manufacturing.
b) We pride ourselves on investing in both cutting-edge technology and the development of our team. From apprenticeships to continuous professional training, Tappex is committed to nurturing talent and supporting career growth.
c) At Tappex, we are dedicated to producing precision-engineered products while maintaining a strong focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility. Our modern manufacturing processes are designed to minimise waste and optimise energy efficiency, reflecting our commitment to a greener future.
Tappex Thread Inserts Ltd. is a leading manufacturer of high-quality threaded inserts and fasteners, serving industries worldwide, including automotive, aerospace, electronics, and manufacturing. Established over 60 years ago, we have built a strong reputation for innovation, quality, and precision engineering.
At Tappex, we pride ourselves on:
• Engineering Excellence: Our threaded inserts are designed and manufactured to the highest standards, ensuring reliability and durability in demanding applications.
• Global Reach: With a network of partners across Europe, North America, and Asia, our products are trusted by industry leaders worldwide.
• Sustainability Commitment: We are dedicated to sustainable manufacturing processes that minimise waste and reduce environmental impact.
• Employee Development: We invest in our people, providing comprehensive training, career growth opportunities, and a supportive work environment.
Joining Tappex means becoming part of a forward-thinking company that values its team members and encourages innovation and professional growth.
ROLE
You will work within a busy and supportive environment, learning essential skills to become part of our specialist team responsible for setting and maintaining multi-spindle Davenport machines.
You will work within a busy and supportive environment, learning essential skills to become part of our specialist team responsible for setting and maintaining multi-spindle Davenport machines.
What You Will Learn and Do:
• Assist with the set-up and changeover of Davenport machines under supervision.
• Learn how to make sure machines are running efficiently and producing quality components.
• Use measuring equipment (e.g. micrometers, verniers, shadowgraphs) to check component accuracy.
• Read and understand engineering drawings.
• Support new team members and learn basic training techniques.
• Bar-up machines and assist with basic tooling when needed.
• Follow all company quality and safety procedures.
WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU?
• Annual wage £14,500 36.5 hours per week @ £7.64/hour – plus travel allowance
• The holiday year commences on the 1st of January and finishes on the 31st of December. You are entitled to 18 days of holiday per year, plus all public holidays in England and Wales. You will also receive one extra floating day for every four months of service up to a maximum of 7 days.
• Other benefits will include a company pension scheme and life assurance.
• There is also a six-monthly bonus scheme, which depends on the company and you hitting certain criteria.
• As the crow flies, travel allowance is also paid based on distance from your home to work.
Other Information
Working Environment
You’ll work in our busy, industrial machine shop – it’s noisy, oily, and fast-paced, but we’ll provide all the PPE and training you need to work safely and confidently. You’ll be part of a team that values attention to detail, learning, and teamwork.
From year 2, you will be on the following rotating shift pattern:
Working hours: (Rotating Shift Pattern)
• Mon: 7.00 – 14.30 or 14.00 – 22.00
• Tues: 7.00 – 14.30 or 14.00 – 22.00
• Wed: 7.00 – 14.30 or 14.00 – 22.00
• Thurs: 7.00 – 14.30 or 14.00 – 22.00
• Fri: 7.00 – 14.30 or 14.00 – 18.30
Please note: Make UK and Tappex reserve the right to change the advert closing date without notice, so apply now to avoid disappointment