Spirax Sarco, part of Spirax-Sarco Engineering, is a world leading provider of steam system solutions and has opportunities for apprentices.
Its Advanced Craft Apprenticeship allows apprentices to gain practical experience of producing parts and products, using a variety of methods and equipment, and covers areas from basic tool making, to welding, to multi-axis machining techniques, to inspection.
Meanwhile, the company's Advanced Technician Apprenticeship includes theoretical and practical tasks covering all aspects of the business, from machining to purchasing to product development then focused towards specific engineering roles.
"I chose a Spirax Sarco apprenticeship programme because I feel that it enables you to have a broad experience within the engineering environment and allows you to immerse yourself in exactly what you'd like to do in the future and make contacts within the company," says Yasmin Hind, Technician Apprentice.
What should you expect?
In the first year, Spirax Sarco apprentices are based at a local training provider undertaking key skills assessments - NVQ Level 2.
Following years are based within the workplace on site, rotating through a series of specified placements whilst undertaking NVQ Level 3 and Functional Skills. Apprentices are also required to attend a local college one day per week.
Apprentices receive a competitive salary, discretionary bonus, 27 days' holiday, pension, health insurance, life assurance, subsidised restaurants (on site) and further opportunities for training and development.
Who is the company looking for?
Spirax Sarco wants people with good communication and interpersonal skills, an interest in technical matters and engineering, analytical thinking, the ability to use initiative, and the ability to work well with others.
Desirable personal qualities include self-motivation, dertermination, good attention to detail, and enthusiasm.
Applicants need five GCSEs (or equivalent) at grade C (9-5) or above, which must include Maths, English and a Science subject, together with a real interest in technical and engineering matters.
From apprentice to Inspection Team Leader
Amanda is part of the Inspection Team at Spirax Sarco. Her career started with a four-year apprenticeship with the company after leaving school at 16 in 1981.
"At the end of my apprenticeship, I became an Inspector verifying machine shop component quality. I left the company in 1992 to pursue other opportunities but I re-joined Spirax Sarco in 2002, again as an Inspector," she explains.
"By this time the role had become much more varied, encompassing quality aspects throughout the manufacturing process including pre-production sampling, material certification & traceability, machined & assembled component verification and process capability."
"During the last 14 years, Spirax Sarco have invested in advanced pieces of inspection equipment including Co-Ordinate Measuring machines, Laser and Optical scanners and Surface Finish and Form measuring machines. I became Inspection Team Leader in 2010," she adds.
"My team are responsible for all aspects of Inspection and Calibration relating to Spirax Sarco manufacturing based in Cheltenham. We help and support departments across the business, often we are called upon to assist with problem-solving tasks. During these instances, measurement and data-gathering are key to enable the delivery of robust solutions.My role is busy and varied, I particularly enjoy the technical demands it brings"
Interested in an apprenticeship with a prime employer?
If you want to gain practical experience in a fast-changing, modern industry, submit your application by either applying through the website or by sending your CV to: apprenticehelpdesk@uk.spiraxsarco.com
Closing Date: 10 February 2020
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