Apprenticeships at the University of Oxford Becoming an apprentice at the University of Oxford is an excellent opportunity to gain practical experience and training. You will work alongside experienced colleagues, whilst learning on the job and appropriate objectives will be set during the course of the Apprenticeship. At the same time, you will study for formal qualifications in your field. Apprentice Machining Technician We are looking for a motivated individual to join us as an Apprentice Machining Technician. This is an exciting opportunity to gain hands on experience while working towards industry recognised qualifications.
We appreciate that everyone learns and thinks in different ways; therefore, if you would prefer to provide your information in a different format; for example, over the phone, or you need support in completing your application please contact oasphase2@the-mtc.org
| Vacancy location | Central Oxford |
| Training location | OAS, Culham Campus, OX14 3DB |
| Wage | Apprentice Grade 1 £26,686 (salary progression through successful completion of programme) |
| Expected duration | 3.5 years months |
| Closing date | 05 June 2026 |
Apprentice Machining Technician
We are looking for a motivated individual to join us as an Apprentice Machining Technician. This is an exciting opportunity to gain hands‑on experience while working towards industry‑recognised qualifications.
As an apprentice, you will undertake a three-and-a-half‑year structured training programme, combining:
- Practical, in‑house training with experienced technicians
- Block‑release distance learning delivered by MTC training at Oxfordshire Advanced Skills Culham Campus
You will work towards a Level 3 Machining Technician Apprenticeship, with clear development objectives set throughout the programme to support your progress.
Please note:
Regular attendance at the training centre and successful completion of all training and study components are essential requirements of this role.
This apprenticeship offers an excellent pathway into a skilled technical career, with high‑quality training, professional support, and the opportunity to develop your capabilities in a leading engineering environment.
The apprenticeship includes an exciting opportunity to work across all of the different mechanical workshops in the Engineering Department, workshops which support research in biomedical, turbo machinery, materials testing and various other areas of research.
Hazard-specific / Safety-critical duties.
This job includes the following hazard-specific or safety-critical duties that will require successful pre-employment health screening through our Occupational Health Department before the successful candidate can commence work:
- Work with sensitisers/work requiring health surveillance.
- Regular manual handling.
- Safety-critical work (refer to the Hazards checklist for specific examples)
Responsibilities & Duties.
All tasks will be at a level appropriate to the apprentice’s developing skills, under the guidance of the Head of Workshop.
All skill areas will involve the identification, planning and performing of mechanical technician tasks across the Department, including the operation of specialist machinery. The apprentice will also support all aspects of the day-to-day running of the workshop. The apprentice will be supervised at all times when in workshops.
Key Duties.
- Learn to use a wide range of machine tools including three-axis CNC/manual milling machines and two-axis CNC/manual lathes.
- Learn to use a wide range of workshop equipment, including precision measuring instruments, lathes, milling machines, grinders, power saws, hand tools and sheet metal equipment.
- Assist with preparing drawings from sketches and discussions with researchers using Computer Aided Design (CAD) programs.
- Take stage by stage instructions from an experienced workshop technician in order to complete basic technician tasks independently.
- Liaise with staff in other workshops to develop confidence and interpersonal skills. Engage with academics, researchers, staff and students to offer advice on potential engineering solutions.
- Update/maintain logbook of work/projects carried out in line with the requirements of the apprenticeship.
- Support students in taught sessions, where appropriate.
- Support Outreach and STEM activities, as well as University Open days.
- Assist with maintaining, servicing, and repairing workshop machinery and equipment when required.
- Check and maintain operating efficiency and cleanliness of tools, apparatus and workshop premises.
- Comply with Health & Safety procedures and work in safe manner.
- Understand and record time and materials used on projects.
- Log details from customers and assist with providing quotes.
- Answer telephone calls, emails, handle routine enquiries and take messages as required.
- Meet at regular intervals with the head of workshop to monitor progress.
- Attend training college to ensure that the required academic levels are being achieved, and are on target to finish the course within the agreed time.
Selection Criteria
Essential
- Hold a minimum of five GCSE’s (including Maths English and a Science at grade 9 - 4 (A*-C)) or equivalent.
- A demonstrable ability to understand how machines and mechanisms work.
- Have an interest in a relevant technical area
- Able to demonstrate an aptitude for the skills taught in the apprenticeship. (For example, through work experience, qualifications or references).
- Basic IT skills.
- Able to communicate easily and understandably in spoken English.
- Able to communicate clearly and accurately when drafting documents in written form.
Desirable
- A demonstrable interest and passion for engineering, science and technology. (For example, through projects, hobbies or work experience).