Tappex Thread - L3 Machining Technician Apprenticeship

Company: Tappex Thread Inserts Limited
Location: Stratford-upon-Avon, CV37 9NT
Type: Apprenticeship
Salary: £300.00 per week
Sector: Build and Make Things
Ref: VAC-00860
Application Deadline Date: 25/09/2026
Start Date: 16/11/2026
Positions Available: 2
Working Week: At the company: Mon - Fri 7 AM to 14:30 PM

Brief Description

Kick-start your engineering career as a Davenport Setter Apprentice and gain hands-on experience in the fast-paced world of precision manufacturing. You’ll learn to set up and operate high-volume machinery, read engineering drawings, solve production problems and develop valuable practical engineering skills alongside experienced professionals.

Qualifications Required

3 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 maintenance.
· 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 your employer 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, you will achieve your full apprenticeship certification that will prove competence as a Level 3 Machining 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

The Company:
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.

Site: www.tappex.co.uk

The 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. 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.

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.