You could take a college course to learn some of the skills needed for this job. 

Relevant courses include:

• engineering operations
• engineering technologies
• engineering
• mechanical engineering
• T Level in Engineering, Manufacturing, Processing and Control

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for these courses vary.

You could apply to do an Engineering Operative Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship, or a Machining Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.

These can take between 1 and 4 years to complete.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

You can apply directly for jobs if you have engineering experience. This might be from mechanical servicing and repair, machinery fitting or electrical work.

You'll need:

• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
• complex problem-solving skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to work well with others
• maths knowledge
• the ability to use your initiative
• knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You'll need to:

• have a good level of fitness

As an engineering operative, you could:

• follow engineering plans and job instructions
• set up and operate computer-controlled machinery
• make machine parts, using tools like lathes, cutters and grinders
• apply coatings and finishes to manufactured products
• service and repair machinery
• carry out inspections and quality checks

You could work in a factory, in a workshop or on a construction site.

Your working environment may be dusty, hot and noisy.

You may need to wear protective clothing.