Machinist Apprenticeship Instructor/Mentor

Machinist Apprenticeship Instructor/Mentor at the University of Derby: An Opportunity to Shape Future Engineers

The University of Derby, a consistently high-achieving institution recognized with a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023, is seeking passionate individuals to join its Institute of Education and Skills. This department plays a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of educators, trainers, and leaders, with a particular focus on apprenticeships that bridge academic excellence with real-world industry needs. If you're looking to leverage your expertise to make a tangible impact and guide emerging talent, this opportunity might be an ideal next step in your career.

The Role: Cultivating Precision Engineering Talent

This position as a Machinist Apprenticeship Instructor/Mentor is specifically designed for experienced professionals in CNC and machining operations. You will be instrumental in developing precision engineers for critical industries, including Rolls-Royce Submarines and their supply chain. This role goes beyond simply imparting technical knowledge; it's about holistic development. You'll be responsible for:

• Planning, delivering, and assessing high-quality teaching and learning in CNC and machining.
• Ensuring apprentices acquire the essential technical knowledge, skills, and behaviours for career success and to pass their End-Point Assessments.
• Providing hands-on training in state-of-the-art facilities at the Nuclear Skills Academy, covering areas like milling, turning, grinding, and inspection.
• Mentoring and coaching apprentices individually and in groups, fostering their progress, and embedding foundational skills like English, Maths, and professional behaviours.
• Collaborating with colleagues and employers to ensure a seamless and impactful apprenticeship experience.

Advantages for Potential Candidates:

This role presents several compelling advantages for career development and job satisfaction:

• Make a Significant Impact: You'll be directly contributing to the development of a highly skilled workforce essential for strategic industries. Your guidance will shape the future of precision engineering.
• Cutting-Edge Facilities: Access to and utilization of the advanced facilities at the Nuclear Skills Academy offers a modern and well-equipped environment for teaching and practical training.
• Continuous Professional Development: The University of Derby is committed to personal and professional growth, offering opportunities to enhance your skills and potentially achieve a Level 5 teaching qualification.
• Supportive and Inclusive Culture: The university prioritizes staff wellbeing, providing a supportive environment with a comprehensive suite of benefits, including generous leave, health and wellbeing programs, and family-friendly policies.
• Competitive Benefits Package: Beyond the rewarding nature of the work, candidates can expect a generous annual leave entitlement (47 days inclusive of bank holidays), access to the Teachers' Pension Scheme, and a range of staff discounts and wellbeing initiatives.
• Career Enhancement: Experience in apprenticeship delivery and mentoring can significantly boost your profile and open doors to further roles in education, training, or curriculum development.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

To thrive in this role and ensure it aligns with your career aspirations, consider the following:

• Professional Experience is Key: Strong, hands-on professional experience in machining and CNC operations is a fundamental requirement. Ensure your experience aligns with the advanced technical skills needed.
• Teaching and Mentoring Aptitude: While direct teaching experience is beneficial, a genuine passion for mentoring, coaching, and developing individuals is paramount. Be prepared to articulate your approach to supporting apprentices.
• Apprenticeship Framework Knowledge: Familiarity with apprenticeship delivery models, including End-Point Assessment and the embedding of functional skills, will be advantageous.
• Commitment to Safeguarding: The University of Derby places a high emphasis on safeguarding. Candidates should be aware of and committed to upholding these principles.
• Right to Work: Please note that this role is not eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route. Candidates must demonstrate an alternative right to work in the UK.
• DBS Check: Successful candidates will be required to undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Ensure you have the necessary documentation ready for the interview stage.

This role offers a unique chance to transition your extensive industry knowledge into a fulfilling educational career. By joining the University of Derby, you'll be part of an organization dedicated to excellence, innovation, and making a positive impact on individuals and the wider community.