Product Design and Development Engineer (Degree) Apprenticeship – Level 6

Product design and development engineers work on all stages of product creation, product modification and product componentry. They support activities ranging from early concept feasibility, Computer Aided Design and other modelling, and all stages through to final preparation for launching to customers.

This includes working in concept studios, rapid prototyping, assembly, testing, validating and analysing performance. Typically product design and development engineers work closely with suppliers and managers in bringing new concepts to life or contributing to redesigns of existing products.

In order to optimise success, candidates will typically have five GCSEs at grade C or above, including Mathematics, English and a Science, Technology or Engineering-related subject, as well as A-levels at grade C or above in both a Mathematical-based subject and a Science, Technology, Engineering or additional Mathematics-related subject, or 90+ credits in an Engineering BTEC.

The Product Design and Development Technician Apprenticeship also provides a potential preparation route for this apprenticeship.

Apprentices must be employed in a suitable role for 30+ hours per week.

During the foundation stage, the apprentice must develop a solid grasp of the core engineering skills. These skills will prepare them for the workplace in demonstrating that they have the required basic capacity to do their core role.  The competencies required are both stretching and transferable and can be built upon over time. The skills required are:

• How to comply with statutory requirements and stringent organisational safety requirements
• How to effectively use, interpret and evaluate a range of engineering data sources and documentation
• Organising work efficiently and effectively in managing engineering resources when completing tasks
• Producing components using hand fitting techniques and producing mechanical assemblies
• Producing electrical or electronic drawings or CAD models using a CAD system
• Preparing and using lathes, milling and other general or specialist high-tech equipment
• Applying mechanical, electrical and electronic devices and equipment
• Using computer software packages to assist with engineering activities
• Producing and managing engineering project plans

During the development stage, the apprentice will hone and deepen their general engineering skills in their specialist areas and may also undergo placements in relevant supportive functions to provide breadth of experience. With all of these skills, they will be using a well-planned, logical and systematic approach. On successful completion of the above, the apprentice will then progress to develop their skills in:

• Project management in undertaking engineering activities
• Establishing design briefs, presenting and discussing technical proposals
• Managing and controlling product design change
• Supporting team feasibility design reviews
• Demonstrating technical and commercial management in planning and managing tasks and resources

Modern high-value engineering organisations require their apprentices to have a set of occupational behaviours that will ensure success both in their current and future roles and in meeting the overall company objectives. These required behaviours include:

Safety mindset: this occupation sits within an industry with a high level of safety critical activities. There has to be strict compliance and a disciplined and responsible approach to manage, mitigate and avoid risk.

Strong work ethic: positive attitude, motivated by a career in engineering, dependable, ethical, responsible and reliable.

Logical approach: able to structure a plan and develop activities following a logical thought process, but also able to quickly “think on their feet” when working through them.

Problem solving orientation: identifies issues quickly, enjoys solving complex problems and applies appropriate solutions. Has a strong desire to push to ensure the true root cause of any problem is found and a solution identified which prevents further recurrence.

Quality focus: follows rules, procedures and principles in ensuring work completed is fit for purpose and pays attention to detail/error checks throughout activities.

Personal responsibility and resilience: motivated to succeed, accountable and persistent to complete tasks.

Clear communicator: uses a variety of appropriate communication methods to give/receive information accurately, and in a timely and positive manner.

Team player: not only plays own part but is also able to work and communicate clearly and effectively within a team and interacts/helps others when required. In doing so, applies these skills in a respectful and professional manner.

Applies Lean Manufacturing Principles: continuous improvement in driving effectiveness and efficiency.

Adaptability: able to adjust to different conditions, technologies, situations and environments.

Self-Motivation: a ‘self-starter’ who always wants to give their best, sets themselves challenging targets and can make their own decisions.

Willingness to learn: wants to drive their continuous professional development.

Commitment: able to commit to the beliefs, goals and standards of their own employer and to the wider industry and its professional standards.

• Foundation Degree in Integrated Engineering
• BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering

• Coursework
• Exams

Yes – one day per week.

Nothing additional is needed.

They can progress to project management.

Product Design Technician

You may already have someone in your organisation or someone who has come to you directly asking for an apprenticeship. But, if you don’t, we have a free recruitment service to help you hire the best candidate for your organisation from our talent pool and can provide external advertising through social media and the National Apprenticeship Service’s website.

If you are an employer and you would like to know more, please email businessenquiries@derby-college.ac.uk or call 01332 387421