Advanced Apprenticeship (Level 3) Engineering Technician
Role overview
Product Design and Development Technicians help turn innovative ideas into real-world products. Working across the full development process, from concept and prototype through to testing and launch apprentices gain advanced technical, design, and manufacturing skills used across engineering and high-tech industries.
You’ll learn how to:
- Use Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software to model and develop products and components
• Produce and test prototypes using workshop machinery, 3D printing and additive manufacturing techniques
- Apply mechanical, electrical, and electronic principles in design and assembly
Measure, inspect, and analyse performance to meet design and quality standards
- Identify and resolve design or production issues during testing and validation Work safely, efficiently, and collaboratively in engineering environments
- Apprentices work alongside engineers and technicians in design studios, laboratories, and production areas contributing to projects across automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and advanced engineering sectors.
Typical roles include Product Design Technician, Development Engineer, Prototype Technician, or Mechanical Design Technician.
Where can you work?
Product Design and Development Technicians are employed in:
- Engineering and manufacturing companies
- Automotive, aerospace, and defence organisations
- Product design consultancies and R&D departments
• Technology and advanced manufacturing sectors
This pathway develops creative, analytical engineers who combine design thinking with hands-on technical expertise to bring products from concept to reality.
Progression opportunities
After completing this apprenticeship, learners can progress to higher-level study such as the Level 4 Engineering Manufacturing Technician or HNC/HND in Engineering.
With experience, career routes include Design Engineer, Development Engineer, or Project Engineer, leading on product innovation and process improvement.
