Advanced engineering and manufacturing

• bio-technology, and robotics are just some of the growing areas which need skilled young people to research and design new products and parts.
• Engineers are also essential for tackling climate change and sustainability.
• Advanced digital skills are highly desired in this sector.
• STEM businesses are experiencing a shortfall of 173,000 workers⁶ across a range of roles – women are desperately needed to join.
• The share of jobs in this sector requiring level 4 and above qualifications is growing– technicians, engineers, scientists and IT specialists are in demand.
• Norfolk employers are looking for young people to work and train in these areas: 
  • clean tech 
  • agri-tech 
  • food and drink manufacturing 
  • advanced electronics
  • motorsport 
  • aviation 
  • bio-technology
  • marine 
  • renewable energy 
  • precision engineering 
  • advanced composites
• If you’re not sure what some of those are, get researching!

⁶The IET

• Advanced digital & ICT skills
• Problem solving
• Writing
• Attention to detail
• Maths
• Analytical skills
• Speaking
• Creativity
• Leadership
• Teamwork
• Design
• Language

• Chemistry
• Languages
• Physics
• Computer science
• Design and technology
• English
• Art
• Maths
• Business studies

• Lotus Group
• Warren Services, Thetford
• KLM UK Engineering
• Mussett Aerospace
• Redpack
• Syrinix
• Thurne-Middleby
• Bespak
• Ben Burgess
• Panel Graphic
• ATB Laurence Scott
• Lintott Control Systems
• Trivium Packaging

Metal working machine operative          £19,800-£35,750

CAD technician                                      £17,750-£35,150

Motor vehicle assembler                        £19,000-£38,600

Engineering technician                           £24,600-£48,100+

Quality assurance professional              £26,350-£61,650

Design & development engineer            £32,200-£50,900+

Robotics engineer                                  £27,350-£59,000+

(figures from the Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings 2021)

Skilled people with level 4 and above qualifications are in demand as automation and artificial intelligence (AI) become able to do more routine tasks. Getting good grades in maths, English, science and technology subjects will help you to get into this sector and keep your career options open.

Options at 16

A levels – physics, chemistry, biology, maths or computer science may be looked for when applying for higher education STEM courses or apprenticeships; depending on the course or employer, subjects such as geography, geology, psychology and economics may also be accepted.

Apprenticeship - There’s a wide range of manufacturing and engineering-related apprenticeships which can lead to work or further study. Entry requirements vary so check before you apply. These are just a few:

Intermediate apprenticeship (level 2)

• Engineering operative

• Rail engineering operative

Intermediate apprenticeship (level 3)

• Marine electrician

• Engineering technician

• Engineering design and draughtsperson

• Science manufacturing technician

T levels and other vocational qualifications (for example a BTEC) in engineering, manufacturing, science, or design and technology can prepare you for work in a range of careers in this sector or for further study or training.

Options at 18 or 19

Undergraduate degree - degree-level qualifications are highly sought after in this sector; some careers require further training or postgraduate study such as chartered engineer. Many large employers run graduate programmes which offer placements in a variety of careers and locations. A degree in a broad subject such as physics, chemistry, computer science or an earth science may also be acceptable for gaining engineering status depending on the area you want to go into.

Apprenticeship - There’s a wide range of higher and degree apprenticeships at different levels in this sector. The higher and degree apprenticeships vacancy listing is a good source of openings with large employers, it usually comes out towards the end of the year. Start looking when applications become open and check entry requirements carefully - competition can be high for some positions.

Examples include:

• Fashion and textiles product technologist (level 4)

• Food and drink engineer (level 5)

• Geotechnical engineer (level 7 degree apprenticeship)

• Electronic systems principle engineer (level 7)

• Materials science technologist (level 6 degree apprenticeship)

• Space engineering technician (level 4)

• Aerospace software development engineer (level 6 degree apprenticeship)

Gaining experience

Work experience, a paid job or voluntary work will improve your chances of finding a job in this sector; it will also help when applying for an apprenticeship or degree course.