Engineering and Digital Manufacturing

This Technical Apprenticeship is designed to support the development of apprentices working in the Engineering sector, in roles such as:

• Technician

• Industrial Technician

• Engineering Technician

• Industrial Engineer

• Lead Engineer

• Production Engineer

The goal of the apprenticeship is to develop competence in the use of existing, evolving and emerging technologies and to enable apprentices to apply advanced engineering practice and principles in supporting and making engineering and manufacturing decisions.

There are no formal entry requirements for this apprenticeship, but it is recommended that applicants hold:

• 2 or more SQA Highers, and Mathematics at National 5 or above; or

• National Certificate (SCQF Level 6) or a Higher National Certificate (SCQF Level 7) qualification in engineering

However, employers can also consider existing workplace skills and experiences, where apprentices are changing careers or upskilling. Being open to alternative assessment methods and relevant experience, instead of qualifications, can help attract more applicants.

A successfully completed apprenticeship, including the achievement of competence-based and professional qualifications, opens the door to a number of opportunities for progression in both work and further learning.

Career advancement

Successful apprentices may progress within the workplace to either technical specialist roles or supervisory/managerial roles.

Further study

Options for those wishing to pursue further professional learning and development include degree level study in Engineering or in business related subjects. In particular, this Technical Apprenticeship supports progression with advanced standing to the Graduate Apprenticeship in Engineering Design and Manufacture.

Professional registration 

This apprenticeship supports professional recognition as it includes learning and skills outcomes that are common to the professional qualifications relevant for project management roles across a variety of sectors. 

The apprentice, employer and learning provider will determine the most appropriate professional pathway. The learning provider will guide each successful apprentice on the professional registration process they should follow. 

Important information

Please read the Occupation Profile for Engineering and Digital Manufacture at SCQF Level 8. This gives a detailed description of the work situations routinely carried out in engineering roles at this level.