Manufacturing & Mechanical Apprentice

Join ICOMAT – Revolutionising the Future of Lightweight Manufacturing!

iCOMAT is an advanced manufacturing company that invented Rapid Tow Shearing (RTS) - the only proven technology for producing defect-free curved-fiber composite parts at industrial scale. We deliver the lightest structures possible for aerospace, automotive, defense, and space, at a rate and cost efficiency that far exceeds existing composite production processes.

We build and operate automated factories for composite materials, delivering components to Tier 1 suppliers and OEMs. The business has three main divisions: development of automated production machines, development of software design and production tools, and operation of the factory. We work with 25+ customers and completed the largest ever Series A in composites manufacturing to fuel a significant scale-up, with growth plans that will see the business multiply in size over the next two to three years and expand operations into the UK, Europe and the US.

The business has currently more than 130,000 sqm of production capacity with manufacturing facilities in the UK (Gloucester and Swindon) and the US (Dayton, Ohio); a Hardware R&D Centre in Bristol, UK; and a Software R&D Centre in Athens, Greece.

We are seeking a highly motivated and ambitious Mechanical and Manufacturing Apprentice to join our dynamic engineering team.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone starting their engineering career to gain hands-on experience while working towards a Level 6 degree apprenticeship in Manufacturing Engineering. The successful candidate will support the specification, development, commissioning, and continuous improvement of iCOMAT’s Rapid Tow Shearing, or RTS, technology and its supporting manufacturing processes.

The Apprentice will work as part of a multi-skilled engineering team involved in developing advanced composite manufacturing systems. The role will provide exposure to mechanical design, manufacturing process development, hands-on assembly, automation, quality systems, problem solving, and production support.

The successful candidate will support continuous improvement activity within the manufacturing environment, helping to improve efficiency, product quality, process reliability, and manufacturing performance. They will also assist with the development of standardised operating procedures, quality documentation, and manufacturing systems that support the delivery of high-quality products using iCOMAT’s RTS technology.

What will you be doing? 

• Supporting improvement activities to enhance manufacturing efficiency, product quality, waste reduction, and cost effectiveness.

• Assisting engineers with the development of manufacturing systems from early concept through to production readiness.

• Supporting hands-on mechanical assembly activities, including the use of hand tools and power tools under appropriate supervision.

• Learning how to apply structured problem-solving methods to investigate manufacturing, quality, equipment and process issues.

• Assisting with root cause analysis relating to equipment effectiveness, production performance, quality issues, and operational challenges.

• Supporting the specification, development, installation, and commissioning of manufacturing equipment and supporting processes.

• Working with engineers to identify and liaise with equipment suppliers and technical partners

• Supporting projects to introduce new technologies, equipment, tooling, fixtures, and automation systems into the manufacturing environment.

• Working with Manufacturing, Quality, Engineering, and Design teams to support process development and product introduction activities.

• Assisting with APQP, FMEA, risk reduction, and process validation activities under guidance from experienced engineers.

• Helping to develop manufacturing processes into clear and repeatable operations.

• Supporting the creation and maintenance of manufacturing documentation, operating procedures, work instructions, and training material.

• Assisting with the development and maintenance of Manufacturing Operating System and Quality Management System processes.

• Supporting the design and improvement of manufacturing cell layouts using lean manufacturing principles.

• Learning how Manufacturing Execution Systems support traceability, process control, and No Fault Forward manufacturing.

• Supporting the review of manufacturing data and performance metrics to help identify trends and improvement opportunities.

• Contributing to iCOMAT’s long-term vision for advanced, highly automated composite manufacturing.

• Maintaining a safe, clean, and professional working environment at all times.

• Taking ownership of personal development, academic progress, and workplace learning throughout the apprenticeship.

• Able to travel to main site in Gloucester as well as UWE (Bristol & Western Super Mare) and occasionally iCOMAT sites in Bristol & Swindon
  

What do we need from you? 

• A strong interest in mechanical engineering, manufacturing, automation, composites, robotics, or advanced technology.

• Good practical ability and confidence working with tools, equipment, or hands-on technical activities.

• A logical and methodical approach to problem solving. · Strong attention to detail and a commitment to quality.

• Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team.

• A positive attitude, willingness to learn, and ability to take feedback.

• Good organisation skills and the ability to balance workplace responsibilities with academic study.

• A proactive approach to learning, improvement, and personal development.

• An interest in lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, digital manufacturing, automation, or Industry 4.0 would be beneficial. Previous work experience is not essential, but experience through school projects, college work, hobbies, volunteering, part-time work, practical engineering tasks, CAD, machining, robotics, electronics, vehicle maintenance, or similar activities would be advantageous.

Entry Requirements:

Applicants must meet the entry requirements for the UWE Bristol Level 6 Manufacturing Engineer Degree Apprenticeship. In addition, iCOMAT requires applicants to meet a higher standard than the minimum course entry requirements.
Applicants should normally have:

• A minimum of 120 UCAS tariff points from A-levels, T Levels, BTEC, or equivalent Level 3 qualifications.

• GCSE Mathematics at Grade 6 or above.

• GCSE English Language at Grade 5 or above.

• A-level Mathematics at Grade B or above, or an equivalent Level 3 mathematics qualification.

• At least one additional relevant STEM subject, such as Physics, Engineering, Design and Technology, Computer Science, Electronics, Chemistry, Further Mathematics, or a relevant technical qualification.

• A genuine interest in manufacturing, mechanical engineering, automation, and advanced composite technology.

Equivalent qualifications will be considered, particularly where applicants can demonstrate strong mathematical ability, technical interest, and practical aptitude.

Applicants must also be eligible to undertake a UK apprenticeship and have the right to work in the UK for the duration of the programme.

Personal Attributes:

The successful candidate will be:

• Curious and enthusiastic about engineering.

• Practical and willing to get hands-on.

• Reliable, punctual and professional.

• Comfortable working in both office and manufacturing environments.

• Safety-conscious and quality-focused.

• Able to follow instructions carefully while developing confidence to use initiative.

• Keen to ask questions, learn from others, and improve.

• Ambitious about building a long-term career in engineering.

Our Values: Uncompromising Excellence

• Competitive Salary & Benefits: We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including private healthcare, pension scheme.

• Stock Options: Equity options to give employees a stake in the company’s success

• Career Growth Opportunities: Join us at a pivotal time as we scale up, offering unmatched professional growth opportunities in the rapidly advancing field of composite materials.

• Innovation-Focused Culture: We pride ourselves on our inclusive, forward-thinking work environment. Recognized by Bloomberg as a "UK Startup to Watch," iCOMAT celebrates diversity and encourages all applicants, regardless of background, to apply.

• Global Impact: Be a part of our mission to redefine lightweight structures for the automotive, aerospace, and space industries, working with some of the most influential companies worldwide.Ready to be part of something big? 

Apply now to learn more and join us on our exciting journey!