Level 3 Maintenance and Operations Engineering Technician

Awarding body: 

Duration: 39 Months (36 months Practical Period + 3 months EPA gateway)

Start date: Sept – July

Maintenance and Operations Engineering Technician

This qualification develops the fundamental technical skills and the foundational knowledge and understanding required to become competent in the job role.

By the end of this programme, apprentices will be able to maintain the safety, integrity, and effective operation of plant and equipment. This includes skills in installation, servicing, removal, maintenance, and repair. While the specific applications may vary depending on the sector, apprentices will gain a strong understanding of the fundamental principles of equipment operation and upkeep.

Topics and units

  • Operation, maintenance, inspection, and fault-finding on plant and equipment.
  • Industry health, safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
  • Interpreting technical specifications and documentation.
  • Maintenance practices and engineering principles.
  • Specialisation in electrical or mechanical technician roles.

Study location and how you’ll learn

Apprentices can expect practical training delivered by Total People instructors at their Engineering Training Centre in Crewe, as well as onsite with an employer.

Off the job training is a critical and important element within this apprenticeship. Apprentices must complete the minimum requirement of six hours of off the job training per week or the equivalent over the practical learning duration (20% of capped 30 working hours).

boy in a classroom holding a pen
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  • Electrical Engineer

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  • Increased Operational Efficiency

    Apprentices trained in preventative maintenance and fault diagonostics, help reduce unplanned downtime, ensuring that machinery and systems run efficiently. This leads to fewer costly repairs, improved productionoutput, and streamlined operations critical in industries like oil, gas, power, and manufacturing.

  • Stronger Workforce & Succession Planning

    With an ageing workforce and skills shortages in the MOET industry, apprenticeships provide a structured way to develop skilled engineers who understand your business from the ground up. This secures a steady flow of qualified technicians, reducing reliance on external hires and ensuring long-term workforce stability.

  • Improved Compliance & Safety Standards

    MOET apprenticeships embed safety-first mindsets from the start, ensuring employees are trained in industry-specific health and safety regulations (HSE), hazardous material handling, and risk assessments. A well-trained workforce means fewer accidents, better compliance with regulations, and a reduced risk of costly penalties or legal issues.

  • Cost Savings & ROI on Training Investment

    Government funding and apprenticeship levy support reduce training costs, making apprenticeships a cost-effective solution for developing in-house talent. Over time, apprentices become highly skilled employees, reducing recruitment costs, increasing productivity, and delivering a strong return on investment for employers.

Employer Hub

Get the information you need on how apprenticeships can benefit your business.

Our Employer Hub provides clear guidance on how apprenticeships can help your business thrive, plus all the details about funding and support you'll get every step of the way to make apprenticeships a key part of your workforce strategy.

Employer solutions

I’m gaining both Electrical and Mechanical unit skills and knowledge, along with CAD drawing. All of this will help with my eventual goal of becoming a Site Technician.

Sara, Maintenance Assistant Apprentice

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