Machining Apprentice

About the role

Dunphy Combustion is looking for a Machining Apprentice to join its Rochdale headquarters. You will learn how to produce precision engineered components using machinery, developing skills in machine operation, tooling, inspection- working from engineering drawings while completing a Machining Technician apprenticeship.

Working alongside experienced engineers in Dunphy's machining department, the apprentice will develop the skills needed to manufacture high-quality precision components. Duties will include:
• Learning to set up and operate CNC machinery safely and efficiently.
• Developing experience on Mazak CNC lathes and Haas machining centres used within Dunphy's machining department.
• Learning how to set tooling, offsets and fixtures.
• Reading and interpreting engineering drawings, setup sheets and technical information.
• Producing precision components and learning to work to specified tolerances.
• Using measuring equipment including micrometres, verniers and gauges to inspect completed work.
• Monitoring machining operations and identifying quality or production issues.
• Maintaining good housekeeping around machinery, tools and work areas.
• Following health, safety, quality and environmental procedures at all times.
• Working as part of the wider machining and manufacturing team and developing greater responsibility as skills and confidence grow.

Training

The successful candidate will complete the Machining Technician Level 3 apprenticeship (ST1305) with Rochdale Training. Training will combine workplace learning at Dunphy Combustion with structured off-the-job training. The apprenticeship develops knowledge and practical competence in machining, including CNC machine tools, engineering drawings and technical data, machine setup and operation, inspection, quality, health and safety and precision component manufacture. Mandatory qualifications and end-point assessment requirements will be completed in line with the apprenticeship standard.

Apprenticeship standard: Machining technician (level 3)

Training provider: ROCHDALE TRAINING ASSOCIATION LIMITED

After your apprenticeship

This apprenticeship provides a route into a skilled CNC machining career. On successful completion, there may be opportunities to progress into a CNC Machinist / Setter-Operator or other precision engineering roles within the business, subject to performance, business requirements and vacancies.

Working hours

Monday to Thursday: 7:45am-4:30pm
Friday: 7:45am-3:30pm
Published Dunphy opening hours. Exact contracted hours, breaks and apprenticeship training arrangements to be confirmed by the employer.

37 hours a week

Duration: 3 Years 6 Months

Possible start date: 19 November 2026

Wage

£15,392 to £24,454.04 a year

Skills

• Communication skills
• Organisation skills
• Problem solving skills
• Team working
• Initiative

Qualifications

• GCSE English (grade 4), essential
• GCSE Maths (grade 4), essential

About the employer

Dunphy Combustion is a family-owned engineering and manufacturing company based in Rochdale. Established in 1964, the company designs, manufactures, installs and maintains industrial combustion equipment, including industrial burners, digital burner control solutions and packaged boiler plant rooms. Dunphy's Rochdale manufacturing complex includes production, research and development, testing and engineering facilities. This apprenticeship offers the opportunity to develop precision machining skills within an established UK engineering manufacturer.