Level 3 Plate Welder Apprentice – Smulders Projects UK Limited

Apprenticeship Description

Level 3 Plate Welder Apprentice – Smulders Projects UK Limited

Smulders Projects UK is a manufacturing company and part of the Smulders Group, an international steel construction company. Our Wallsend facility, established in 2016, is located on the River Tyne with direct access to the North Sea. The site includes three construction areas and three load-out quays, supporting major projects in offshore wind energy, oil & gas, and civil engineering.

As an apprentice, you will gain hands-on experience, develop new skills, and work alongside experienced staff in a real-world manufacturing environment.

What You’ll Learn and Gain:

✅ Practical Welding Skills – Learn to set up welding and gas equipment and perform welding using multiple processes in all positions.
✅ Industry Knowledge – Gain experience in reading engineering drawings, understanding weld procedures, and working with ceramic tiles.
✅ Equipment Handling – Become competent in using mechanical grinders, overhead cranes, cherry pickers, and scissor lifts (if qualified).
✅ Health & Safety Training – Understand and apply safety procedures, PPE usage, and risk assessments.
✅ Career Growth – Build a strong foundation for a long-term career in the offshore wind and steel construction industries.

Your Role as a Plate Welder Apprentice:

After suitable training, your responsibilities will include:

Essential Job Functions:

• Setting up and operating welding and gas equipment.
• Reading and interpreting weld procedures, engineering drawings, and weld details.
• Performing welding using multiple processes in all positions.
• Using mechanical grinders and pencil grinders.
• Understanding the use of ceramic tiles in welding.
• Operating overhead cranes safely and efficiently.
• Using cherry pickers or scissor lifts (if qualified).
• Working at height or in confined spaces (after suitable training).
• Wearing full PPE including boots, overalls, glasses, ear defenders, hard hat, air-fed mask, and gloves.

Standard Job Functions:

• Following all health & safety practices, company procedures, and technical standards.
• Applying risk assessments and best practices in daily tasks.
• Maintaining a clean and safe working environment.
• Attending college one day per week as part of the apprenticeship.
• Carrying out any reasonable tasks requested by a supervisor.

Working Hours & Pay:

• Monday – Thursday: 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM
• Friday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• Total: 39.5 hours per week
• Pay Rate: £8.00 per hour (first-year apprentice rate)

What We’re Looking For:

✅ Grade 4 or above in GCSE English and Maths (or equivalent)
✅ Excellent timekeeping and punctuality
✅ Proactive attitude and willingness to learn
✅ Strong attention to detail and accuracy
✅ Logical thinker with problem-solving skills
✅ Ability to follow instructions and work as part of a team
✅ Interest in offshore wind steel constructions
✅ Motivated, driven, and eager to ask questions

Benefits:

• Earn a Level 3 Plate Welder qualification while working with an industry-leading company.
• Successful apprentices will transition into full-time welding positions.

About Smulders Projects UK:

Smulders has a proven track record in engineering, construction, supply, and assembly of heavy, technically complex steel constructions. Our group operates in civil & industrial sectors, offshore oil & gas, and offshore wind energy. Since 2016, our Wallsend yard has successfully produced and assembled offshore wind turbine foundations for major international projects.

Excited to start your career? Apply Now!