Apprenticeship glossary

Technician

What does Technician mean?

A skilled practical role that keeps equipment, systems or processes working. Many Level 3 engineering apprenticeships train technicians.

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Industry Engineering and manufacturing apprenticeships Designing, making and looking after complicated things, from aircraft engines and cars to ships, submarines and trains.
AAT
The Association of Accounting Technicians qualification, a common first step in accountancy apprenticeships. KPMG, for example, has audit apprentices study AAT Level 3 and 4 in their first two years.
Apprentice
Someone doing an apprenticeship: an employee who is paid to work and train towards a recognised qualification at the same time.
Apprenticeship
A real, paid job where you also train towards a recognised qualification. In England at least 20% of your normal working hours are spent training, and you don't pay tuition fees.
Level
How advanced an apprenticeship's qualification is. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland they run from Level 2 (like GCSEs) to Level 7 (like a master's degree). Scotland uses SCQF levels instead.
Metrology
The science of measuring things precisely. In manufacturing, metrology technicians check parts are made exactly to spec, as on Williams' metrology pathway.
Telephone interview
An early-stage interview by phone, usually short, to check your interest and basic suitability before later stages.

Definitions are our own plain-English summaries. Where we give figures, they come from the official sources listed on the linked guide or profile. Rules can change, so check the official source before you make decisions.