The Role

Apprentice Product Design & Development Engineer

Engineering

Detectortesters, in partnership with the University of Hertfordshire, is excited to provide an opportunity to complete an Engineering Degree Apprenticeship commencing from September 2025. On completion, the successful candidate will hold a BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering degree.

 

Location:  Welham Green (Hatfield), Hertfordshire
Company: Detectortesters
Start Date:  September 2025
Level: Level 6 – BEng (Hons) in Mechanical Engineering
Duration:  4 years + EPA 
Salary:  £22,000 per annum + fully funded degree
Closing Date: 13th June 2025

 

About Detectortesters

At Detectortesters, we're pioneers in designing the latest test equipment for fire detection systems used worldwide. Our products ensure safety across the globe and we're proud to lead the market with our innovative solutions. For decades, we've been known for our high-quality hardware solutions, but today, we're evolving to meet the demands of an increasingly connected world. This evolution is positioning us at the forefront of the IoT revolution, where our products seamlessly blend hardware excellence with software intelligence. You’ll be deeply involved in bringing our next-generation, integrated hardware-software solutions to market rapidly and efficiently.

Your Opportunity

Are you passionate about engineering and eager to dive into the entire product design process? As an Apprentice Product Design & Development Engineer, you'll be working alongside seasoned professionals to transform ideas into tangible products. You'll be hands-on from day one, building and experimenting with prototypes in our labs and contributing to products that integrate IoT and digital services. Plus, you'll earn a fully funded BEng (Hons) degree with the University of Hertfordshire.

What you'll be doing

  • Prototype, Test & Validate: Get hands-on in our labs by building and experimenting with prototypes, utilizing sensors, motors,
    creating smoke and learning about automation to design your own tests.
  • Innovate and Create: Engage in brainstorming sessions, sketching and developing CAD models to bring fresh ideas to life.
  • Full Lifecycle Design: Experience the complete journey of product development—from initial concept and prototyping to production and market launch.
  • Collaborate Across Teams: Work closely with mechanical, electronic, software and test engineers, and gain exposure to departments like manufacturing, supply chain and product management. Learn how a real company works.
  • Embrace Innovation: Contribute to projects that incorporate physics and material sciences, inventive technology, IoT and digital services, aligning with our commitment to innovation.

Who we're looking for

  • Passion for Engineering: A strong desire to understand how things work and a drive to create and innovate. Mechanics, electronics, programming – you will want to have a go at it all!
  • Hands-On Attitude: Eager to get involved in building and testing, with a proactive approach to learning.
  • Creative Problem-Solving: Ability to think outside the box and tackle challenges with innovative solutions.
  • Team Player: Excellent communication skills and a collaborative mindset, reflecting our teamwork value.

What's Required?

There are some miniumum requirements that you need to meet to apply for the apprenticeship: 

  • Right to work in the UK
  • 18+ years old
  • Achieved GCSE Mathematics and English Language of grade 4/C or equivalent (and be able to provide evidence)
  • UCAS points: 120-128
  • A-Level: BBB-ABB Maths and either Physics or Technology or Engineering-based subjects, excluding general studies / critical thinking
  • BTEC - DDM - required Extedned Diploma in Engineering (DDM) to include distinction in Further Maths 
  • IB Requirement - 120-128 points from a miniumum of two HL subjects at grade 4 or above to include HL Maths and Physics

You will need reliable transport to and from our offices in Welham Green and be able to attend classes at the University of Hertfordshire in Hatfield, which will usually be once per week. 

What you'll gain

  • Earn while you Learn: Earn a fully funded BEng (Hons) in Mechanical Engineering without the financial burden.
  • Practical Experience: Apply your learning in real-world projects, gaining invaluable hands-on skills and exposure to multiple departments.
  • Professional Growth: Develop a robust foundation in full lifecycle product design, preparing you for a dynamic career in engineering.
  • Mentorship and Support: Tailored support from a mentor and university liaison plus onging guidance from experienced engineers. 
  • Career Progression: Opportunities to advance within a company that values People and Innovation. 

By joining Detectortesters, you'll be part of a team that values Safety, People, Innovation, Responsibility, Integrity, and Teamwork (Team SPIRIT!). We believe in nurturing talent and providing opportunities to explore, create and lead in the engineering world.


You can find out more about the apprenticeship course by visiting this link:
https://www.herts.ac.uk/courses/degree-apprenticeships/engineering-degree-apprenticeship-mechanical

Ready to apply?

If you are ready to kickstart your career with a true innovator in product design, apply here: Product Design & Development Engineer Apprentice – Find an apprenticeship – GOV.UK

You don’t need to wait for your results – you can use your predicted grades to apply.

Application Deadline: Friday 13th June 2025