The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
Maintenance Apprentice Graduate
1-2 years post-apprenticeshipSkills to master
- Independent execution of PMs, confident basic fault diagnosis, accurate CMMS logging, strict adherence to LOTO.
You're ready to move on when
- Consistently completes assigned PMs without supervision.
- Successfully diagnoses and repairs common faults on at least 3-5 different machine types.
- Receives positive feedback from senior technicians on their ability to learn and apply new skills.
- Demonstrates a proactive approach to identifying potential issues during routine checks.
- 2
Junior Maintenance Technician (from another industry)
1-3 years in a junior roleSkills to master
- Adaptability to our specific plant equipment, understanding of our operational rhythms, proficiency with our CMMS.
You're ready to move on when
- Has a solid foundation in mechanical and electrical principles.
- Shows a strong willingness to learn new equipment and processes quickly.
- Can demonstrate systematic troubleshooting in previous roles.
- Has a good safety record and understanding of industrial safety protocols.
- 3
Multi-Skilled Operative (with technical training)
2-4 years as an operative with additional engineering qualificationsSkills to master
- Transitioning from operating to maintaining, applying theoretical knowledge to practical fault finding, understanding maintenance priorities.
You're ready to move on when
- Has completed relevant NVQ Level 3 or City & Guilds in an engineering discipline.
- Demonstrates a deep understanding of how our production equipment works from an operational perspective.
- Shows initiative in minor fault finding or adjustments as an operative.
- Eager to develop hands-on repair skills and diagnostic capabilities.