Occupational Profile

The broad purpose of the occupation is to carry out metal fabrication work using things such as rolled steel joists, columns, channels, steel plate and metal sheet etc. Fabricators can work alone or in teams, in factories or on operational sites.

Fabricators use a large range of metals including steel, aluminium and titanium at a range of thicknesses from 0.5mm up to over 20mm. The size and weight of the fabrications can range from components that can easily be picked up by hand, to massive structures that require several cranes to manipulate.

In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with planners, supervisors, inspectors, designers, welders, pipefitters, fitters, machinists, riggers, steel erectors, stores personnel, painters and many others involved in manufacturing, production, maintenance and repair. An employee in this occupation will be responsible for the quality and accuracy of their own work whilst ensuring it conforms to a relevant specification such as an engineering drawing or an international standard. Fabricators are also responsible for the health, safety and environmental (HS&E) protection of themselves and others around them.

Entry Requirements

Individual employers will set the selection criteria for their apprenticeships. In order to optimise success, candidates will typically have 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 minimum or equivalent, including Mathematics, English and a Science.

Duration

36 – 48 months

Qualifications and Studies
  • Level 2 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (Foundation Competence)

After a further period of skills and technical knowledge development, all apprentices will be required to achieve the following qualifications:

  • Level 3 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (Development Knowledge)
  • Level 3 Diploma (Competence Qualification)
End Point Assessment

When an Employer believes an apprentice is ready for this stage, the apprentice is put forward for the  end point assessment. This includes:

End Point Assessment Elements

  • Practical Observation
  • Portfolio of Evidence

End Point Assessment Grading

  • Fail
  • Pass
  • Distinction