Complete process manufacturing activities to produce polymer products to a specification.
Polymer processing technicians work in the process manufacturing sector.
A polymer is a substance or material made of long repeating chains of molecules. There are several types of polymers. They have different properties: light, heavy, strong, tough, and flexible, depending on the type of molecules bonded and how they are bonded. They are used for a wide variety of purposes in both everyday consumer products and highly demanding technical applications. Elastomer and rubber for example, are used for tyres and components such as seals and gaskets. PVC is used for water pipes, window frames, and cable insulation. Nylon and polyester are used in clothing. And plastics are used in mobile phones, computer hardware, automotive, medical devices, aerospace, disability aides, water bottles, and vacuum cleaners.
Polymer processing technicians produce polymer products to a specification. They work in a production facility - often on a large scale, using a range of machinery, control systems and engineering equipment. Products are made using continuous or in batch processes. Polymer processing technicians set up or configure equipment and tooling and prepare materials for processing. They run and monitor the process, adjusting parameters. They use unique technologies and processes such as extrusion, blow moulding, thermoforming, rotational moulding, injection moulding, internal mixing, and calendering. They undertake quality control, complete work records, and participate in improvement. They may also complete preventative maintenance and prepare polymer process equipment for maintenance and overhaul.
They work with other members of the production team. They also have contact with people from other functions such as, process engineers, maintenance engineers, laboratory staff, supply chain staff, and warehouse staff. They may also have contact with external people such as customers, service providers, suppliers, and regulators. They usually report to a production manager.
They must ensure that the process and products meet quality specifications and are produced to schedule. They must comply with health and safety regulations and procedures including wearing personal protection equipment (PPE). They also need to meet environmental and sustainability regulations and procedures – minimising waste and recycling materials. They may work as part of a small or large manufacturing team. They work with minimal supervision and are responsible for the quality of their own work. They may work shifts.
Polymer process technician
Polymer processing technician
Process technician
Production technician
This is a summary of the key things that you – the apprentice and your employer need to know about your end-point assessment (EPA). You and your employer should read the EPA plan for the full details. It has information on assessment method requirements, roles and responsibilities, and re-sits and re-takes.
An EPA is an assessment at the end of your apprenticeship. It will assess you against the knowledge, skills, and behaviours (KSBs) in the occupational standard. Your training will cover the KSBs. The EPA is your opportunity to show an independent assessor how well you can carry out the occupation you have been trained for.
Your employer will choose an end-point assessment organisation (EPAO) to deliver the EPA. Your employer and training provider should tell you what to expect and how to prepare for your EPA.
The length of the training for this apprenticeship is typically36 months. The EPA period is typically3 months.
The overall grades available for this apprenticeship are:
When you pass the EPA, you will be awarded your apprenticeship certificate.
The EPA gateway is when the EPAO checks and confirms that you have met any requirements required before you start the EPA. You will only enter the gateway when your employer says you are ready.
The gateway requirements for your EPA are:
Observation with questions
You will be observed by an independent assessor completing your work. It will last at least 3 hours. They will ask you at least 6 questions.
Interview
You will have a interview with an independent assessor. It will last 60 minutes. They will ask you at least 11 questions.The questions will be about certain aspects of your occupation. You need to compile a portfolio of evidence before the EPA gateway. You can use it to help answer the questions.
Test or examination
You will complete a multiple-choice test. It will be closed book, meaning you will not have access to any books or reference materials.
The test will have 40 multiple-choice questions. You will have 60 minutes to complete it.
You should speak to your employer if you have a query that relates to your job.
You should speak to your training provider if you have any questions about your training or EPA before it starts.
You should receive detailed information and support from the EPAO before the EPA starts. You should speak to them if you have any questions about your EPA once it has started.
If you have a disability, a physical or mental health condition or other special considerations, you may be able to have a reasonable adjustment that takes this into account. You should speak to your employer, training provider and EPAO and ask them what support you can get. The EPAO will decide if an adjustment is appropriate.
This apprenticeship aligns with The Science Council for Registered Science Technician (RSciTech). Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship and upon receipt of the apprenticeship certificate, individuals are eligible to apply for RSciTech through a shortened application route. Individuals also need to be a member of a professional body that is licensed by the Science Council to be awarded this status. Further information is on the Science Council’s website.
Please contact the professional body for more details.
This apprenticeship aligns with The Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining for Engineering Technician (EngTech).
Please contact the professional body for more details.
| Version | Change detail | Earliest start date | Latest start date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 | Approved for derlivery | 09/08/2023 | Not set |
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