Metrologist apprenticeships - where to start
You can get into this job through
a university coursea college coursean apprenticeshipspecialist training courses
University
You can do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in:
- manufacturing
- engineering
- mechanical engineering
- physics
- mathematics
You'll usually need 1 or 2 A-Levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma. You'll need 2 or 3 A-Levels, or equivalent, including maths and a science for a degree.
College
You could do a T Level for Metrology Technicians. With experience and further qualifications you may be able to move on to be a metrologist. You'll usually need 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths.
Apprenticeship
You could do a Level 2 metrology technician or a senior metrology technician higher apprenticeship.
These Apprenticeships typically take 36 months to complete. To get onto an apprenticeship, you might need a few GCSE's for a Level 2. You'll find it useful to have 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science and A-Levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship.
Other Routes
It's possible to study a short course in measurement and calibration methods, if you're already working in engineering, manufacturing or quality control.
You could also do a part-time foundation degree in metrology if you have the support of your employer. Measurement science is an important part of every day life. Visit the BIPM, the international organisation that governs weights and measures, to find out more.
Professional and industry bodies
You could join the Institute of Measurement and Control for training opportunities and to make industry contacts.
Metrologist apprenticeships - what it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
- knowledge of maths
- the ability to analyse quality or performance
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- excellent verbal communication skills
- the ability to work well with others
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
Metrologist apprenticeships - what you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
You may:
- use handheld and computerised measuring equipment
- check the dimensions of finished products, tools and machine parts
- compare product standards to technical drawings
- work closely with technicians to fix production problems
- calibrate measuring tools in line with recognised standards
- record test results for production planning and quality control
- keep up to date with measurement methods, technology and guidelines
Working environment
You could work at a manufacturing plant, in a laboratory or visit sites.
Your working environment may be noisy.
You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.
Career path and progression - Metrologist apprenticeships
You can use your skills to work in many different industries, from environment, energy and aerospace to transport, construction and healthcare.
With experience, you can move into a team management role, specialise in a particular area of measurement, or work in science and research.