Apprentice Mechanical Technician
The Oil and Pipelines Agency · Scotland · IV21 2BS
About the role
Apprentice Mechanical Technician 🛠️
(Location: Loch Ewe, Aultbea, Ross-Shire)
Ready to kickstart your career in engineering and make a real impact? The Oil and Pipelines Agency (OPA) is looking for motivated individuals to join our team as Apprentice Mechanical Technicians at our Loch Ewe facility! 🚀
About Us:
We're a Public Corporation responsible for managing and maintaining vital fuel storage facilities across the UK and overseas for the Secretary of State for Defence. With around 200 employees, we're a dedicated team with a pioneering spirit, focused on safety and teamwork. 🤝
The Opportunity:
This is a fantastic 3–4-year apprenticeship program designed to build your expertise in mechanical engineering and operations within a COMAH (Control of Major Accident Hazards) Bulk Liquid Operations Site. You'll gain hands-on experience and technical skills through a nationally recognised framework, including Performing Engineering Operations Level 2, National Certificate, and SVQ Level 3 in Engineering Maintenance. We'll support you with all the necessary technical certificates. You'll also get valuable insights into process safety, COMAH regulations, Human Factors, and Functional Safety. We foster a positive and safe working environment. We partner with West College Scotland in Glasgow for your training. 🎓
Your Journey:
- Year 1: Immerse yourself in learning at the University of the Highlands and Islands in Inverness (30 weeks), attending college and living on campus during term time. 📚
- Years 2 & 3: Transition to the OFD Loch Ewe, where you'll be guided by experienced mentors. 🧑🏫
What You'll Be Doing:
- Carrying out routine maintenance on fuel storage equipment. 🔧
- Diagnosing and repairing faults across plant and equipment at OFD Loch Ewe. ⚡
- Fixing issues or coordinating the installation of replacements.
- Overhauling and replacing parts as scheduled.
- Fitting and assembling mechanical components using machinery and hand tools. 💪
- Accurately completing job sheets and planned maintenance cards. 📝
- Performing planned preventative maintenance (PPM) and other tasks to high engineering and safety standards (HASAWA compliant). ✅
Who We're Looking For:
We need hardworking, reliable, and trustworthy individuals who are eager to learn and grow in the Engineering and Bulk Liquid Storage industry. You should have strong communication and problem-solving skills, and thrive in a team environment. 🗣️🧠
Minimum Qualifications:
You must have National 5/Intermediate 1/Credit Standard Grade in Maths, English, and a Science subject. 💯
What You Get:
- Starting Salary: £13,445 per year (dependent on age), rising to £20,625 in your final year. 💰
- Hours: Monday-Thursday 7:30 am - 4:00 pm, Friday 7:30 am - 12:30 pm (37 hours per week). ⏰
- Progression: Once qualified and experienced, your salary will increase through our pay structure. Opportunities for career development exist across other OPA business areas (e.g., Project Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Process Safety Engineer). 📈
Join us and build a rewarding career! ✨
Key responsibilities
- Perform routine maintenance of fuel storage equipment.
- Undertake fault finding and repair for plant and equipment.
- Overhaul and replace parts according to schedule.
- Fit and assemble mechanical components using appropriate tools.
- Complete job sheets and planned maintenance cards, adhering to engineering standards.