Process Industry Manufacturing Technician Apprenticeship

Level 3
Hire new talent or upskill existing staff

Apprenticeship Overview

Duration: 24 Months
Level: 3
Levy funded: Yes

The Process Industry Manufacturing Technician Apprenticeship (Level 3) is designed to develop skilled technicians who can run, maintain, and optimise industrial process operations.

The programme equips apprentices with practical competence, technical knowledge, and safety awareness to support efficient, high-quality production across process industry environments.

Aligned with real-world manufacturing operations, the apprenticeship helps employers maintain operational efficiency, ensure product quality, and support continuous improvement.

What the Apprenticeship Delivers for Employers

Apprentices develop the capability to:

  • Operate and maintain process industry plant equipment safely and efficiently
  • Identify, resolve, or escalate process, quality, H&S, and environmental issues
  • Prepare and dispatch intermediate or final products
  • Conduct handovers effectively between shifts or maintenance teams
  • Carry out first-line maintenance, testing, and minor repairs on equipment
  • Prepare equipment for shutdowns, maintenance, or decommissioning
  • Bring process systems safely back online following planned work

Apprenticeship details

How does it work?
Who's it for?
Knowledge and skills
Duration
Pricing and funding

The Level 3 Process Industry Manufacturing Technician Apprenticeship is delivered through a blended model that integrates online knowledge delivery with workplace assessment and practical application.

Delivery Model

1 day per week online knowledge delivery 
Workplace-based assessment and competency evaluation
Repeat knowledge sessions addressing operational complexities
Ongoing review and support throughout the programme

Apprentices apply learning directly in their operational role, building technical competence while maintaining productivity. Progress reviews ensure development aligns with site requirements and pathway specialism.

Designed for employers in process industries, including chemical, food & drink, pharmaceutical, and other manufacturing operations.

The apprenticeship is ideal for:

New production employees
Existing operatives progressing to technician level
Employees moving into specialist process or production roles

Typical Job Roles:

Process Operator | Production Technician | Production Operator | Process Manufacturing Technician

Core Capabilities

  • Work safely following HSE and risk management procedures
  • Operate and maintain process equipment within operational parameters
  • Monitor and optimise process performance
  • Conduct handovers and maintain accurate records
  • Perform first-line maintenance and testing of plant equipment
  • Support shutdowns, overhauls, and restart procedures
  • Contribute to quality control and continuous improvement

Knowledge Modules

Health & Safety | Working Effectively Individually and in Teams | Scientific & Mathematical Principles | Process Industry | Manufacturing Operations | Separation & Mixing Techniques | Water Utilisation & Purification | Heat Transfer & Fluid Flow | Process | Control & Fault Diagnosis | Maintaining Quality & Control | IT and Data Security

Typically 24–30 months, depending on prior experience and employer requirements.

Includes:

  • Structured knowledge training
  • Workplace competency development
  • Practical application of process operations
  • End-Point Assessment

By the end of the programme, apprentices are fully equipped to support safe, efficient, and high-quality operations across process industry environments, contributing to reliable and continuous production.

Process Industry Manufacturing Technician Level 3 is funded through the UK Apprenticeship Levy.

Levy-Paying Employers

Apprenticeship training can be funded through your Digital Apprenticeship Service (DAS) account.

Levy funds can be used to train both new recruits and existing employees.

In most cases, if you have sufficient levy funds available, the training costs will be fully covered.

Non-Levy Employers

Apprenticeship training is largely funded by the government.

Most employers pay only a small contribution towards the cost, and in some cases, training may be fully funded depending on eligibility.

Funding covers all training and assessment costs.

Enquire today to find out more

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Why we're different

We’re an apprenticeship training provider, trusted by the world’s leading science and process employers.
Specialist provider in Science & Process manufacturing
Training by Industry experienced tutors
National provider with
employers across England
Rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted
Flexible start dates throughout the year
Bespoke programmes tailored to your shift patterns
Rated ‘Excellent’ by customers on Find an Apprenticeship service
Comprehensive support provided throughout the apprenticeship

How it Works

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