As a Group we are a global manufacturer of construction materials and our 43,500 team members in 90 countries across 300 sites provide a huge opportunity for anyone with ambition and energy. We value everyone's contribution equally and we ask that you bring your whole self to work, to enrich the business further, as together we achieve more in a safe and inclusive environment.
We're pleased to be recruiting an Engineering Apprentice for our Sittingbourne plant. The apprenticeship follows the Engineering Maintenance Technician (EMT) programme delivered by IPS International. Can you say yes?Are you motivated to complete a multi-year apprenticeship that combines work and study?
Can you work effectively as part of a team and also carry out tasks independently when required?
Are you comfortable working in an industrial environment with noise and moving machinery?
If so we would welcome your application.
What you'll be doing:Developing into a competent Maintenance Technician (Mechanical and Electrical) by completing the multi-year Knauf apprenticeship via IPS International. The Engineering Apprentice will support plant reliability and project delivery through supervised maintenance, fault-finding, and improvements. The role combines structured training with hands on experience alongside the Engineering Team, ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient operation of equipment and building the skills and knowledge required for a successful career in engineering maintenance.
Education, coursework and training:
Attend all scheduled college/classes and off the job training sessions as required by the apprenticeship standard.
Complete coursework, assignments, and e learning modules on time; maintain a training portfolio/logbook with evidence.
Prepare for and participate in progress reviews with mentors, supervisors, and the training provider.
On site engineering tasks:
Shadow experienced engineers and progressively take on tasks under supervision.
Assist with installation, commissioning, and decommissioning of plant, machinery, and systems.
Support planned maintenance routines and schedules.
Assist with reactive maintenance and breakdown response under supervision.
Carry out basic functional tests and record results; elevate issues promptly.
Use hand and power tools safely; select correct tools and consumables for each job.
Help with root cause analysis and corrective actions for recurring faults.
Support shutdown/turnaround activities, including prep, execution, and post checks.
Maintain good housekeeping in work areas, workshops, and job sites (5S standards).
Health, safety and environmental:
Follow all HSE policies, risk assessments, and safe systems of work.
Participate in toolbox talks, pre task briefings, and dynamic risk assessments.
Adhere to lockout/tagout and permit to work systems where required.
Wear and maintain appropriate PPE; inspect tools and equipment before use.
Report hazards, near misses, and incidents; contribute to safety improvements.
Minimise waste and support environmental compliance and sustainability practices.
Teamwork and communication:
Communicate progress, issues, and risks to supervisors and the team in a timely manner.
Collaborate with cross functional teams
Participate in handovers and shift briefs, ensuring clear transfer of information.
Continuous improvement and professionalism:
Contribute ideas for efficiency, safety, and quality improvements (e.g., 5S, lean practices).
Follow company values and professional conduct; be punctual and prepared for work and classes.
Manage time effectively between on the job duties and off the job learning.
3 GCSE Passes at Grade 5 (or above) including Maths, English and a Science Subject.
Good interpersonal skills.
Computer literate.
Committed to continuous personal development.
Able to communicate with peers and colleagues.
A competitive salary of around £17,000 + package
Three paid days leave for community, charitable, or voluntary commitments.
7% employer pension contribution.
Level 3 Westfield Cashplan Healthcare.
Income Protection
Access to a Reward & Benefits platform.
Access to Employee Assistance Program (legal or medical advice).
Life Assurance (x 4 times your basic salary).
Cycle to Work Scheme and Tech Scheme
We appreciate that your time is precious and applying for a new job can be a lengthy process - so we have committed to replying to your application within three working days.