Advanced Apprentice – Inserts Engineering

About the role

Join CVI’s four‑year Engineering Apprenticeship Programme and work in the Inserts Manufacturing team, producing high‑precision optical tooling for contact lenses. You will gain hands‑on experience with cutting‑edge CNC machinery, advanced metrology equipment and specialist manufacturing processes.

Key responsibilities

• Set up, programme and operate CNC lathes (Optoform, Hardinge) to manufacture precision inserts and plugs.
• Produce and maintain optical tooling to exacting tolerances.
• Perform inspections using interferometers, microscopes, shadowgraphs and radius measurement systems.
• Operate laser‑etching, laser systems and EDM machinery.
• Support equipment validation, calibration and continuous‑improvement activities.
• Carry out fitting, assembly and basic pneumatic work as required.
• Create technical documentation and reports for manufacturing and quality.

Required profile

• Enthusiasm for advanced manufacturing and precision engineering.
• Willingness to learn CNC programming, toolmaking and metrology.
• Ability to work safely in a clean, temperature‑controlled tool room.
• Commitment to a full‑time, 37.5‑hour week apprenticeship.

Required skills

• CNC machining and CNC lathe operation
• Toolmaking and precision tooling
• Metrology and interferometry
• Microscopy and radius measurement
• Laser etching and EDM machining
• Use of micrometres, gauges and vernier callipers
• Equipment validation and calibration
• Basic pneumatic assembly

What we offer

• Nationally recognised Engineering Operative Level 2 qualification
• Mentorship from experienced engineers
• Exposure to industry‑leading technology
• Opportunities for continuous improvement and innovation