careers

We engineer and supply high-quality valves to perform in some of the most severe service conditions throughout the world. As experienced valve manufacturers, we’ve built a reputation for providing high-performance products on time and at a competitive price. Our customers operate in some of the world’s most demanding industries. Whilst the opportunities may be vast, the consequences of failure can also be catastrophic. Our engineering quality, customer focus and fast technical responses give our customers the peace of mind they need.

We’re looking for our next cohort of Apprentices to join our growing business.  Are you “up” for the challenge of managing yourself and your studies and have a mature outlook?  We’re looking for an Apprentice Engineering Fitter who will learn how to assemble, maintain, and repair valves. They will work with tools and machinery, interpret technical drawings, and follow safety protocols.

The KKI apprenticeship will include hands-on training and theoretical learning, leading to qualifications in mechanical engineering/manufacturing.

At work you’ll:

• Assembling valve components with precision tools
• Testing and inspecting valves for leaks, pressure ratings, and performance
• Fitting of positioners and associated instrumentation
• Calibration of instrumentation
• Following safety protocols and industry standards

Apprenticeships include time away from working for specialist training and the college element of this Apprenticeship has typically been on “day release”, so there is an expectation to work onsite and study at college. The successful candidate will study Level 3 Engineering Fitter Apprenticeship Standard.

Initial 36-week block in College one day a week to complete Level 2 Foundation Competence.

Level 3 Development Knowledge one day a week over following two years.

The final year will involve completion of a portfolio and preparation for End Point Assessment (EPA). This measures the skills, knowledge and behaviours outlined in the standard and is carried out by ESFA approved organisations independent from the college.

Essential qualifications

GCSEs in:

• English (grade 5 or above)
• Maths (grade 6/B or above)

Let us know about any other relevant qualifications and industry experience you have.

Skills required:

• Problem solving skills
• Patience
• Troubleshooting skills
• Reliable
• Good work ethic
• Persistence

What happens when I finish my apprenticeship? Once our apprentices have successfully completed their Apprenticeship standard, and subject to vacancies at the time, there will be an opportunity to apply for further employment. KKI offer career progression & development opportunities for Higher Education i.e. Studying for an HNC/HND, Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industry Certifications – Gaining qualifications in production engineering for the right candidates.

CLOSING DATE: Friday 25th April 2025

We engineer and supply high-quality valves to perform in some of the most severe service conditions throughout the world. As experienced valve manufacturers, we’ve built a reputation for providing high-performance products on time and at a competitive price. Our customers operate in some of the world’s most demanding industries. Whilst the opportunities may be vast, the consequences of failure can also be catastrophic. Our engineering quality, customer focus and fast technical responses give our customers the peace of mind they need.

We’re looking for our next cohort of Apprentices to join our growing business.  Are you “up” for the challenge of managing yourself and your studies and have a mature outlook?  We’re looking for an Apprentice CNC Machine Operator who will learn how to set up, operate and monitor CNC lathes for valve components. Working with machinery, interpreting technical drawings, and following safety protocols.

The KKI apprenticeship will include hands-on training and theoretical learning, leading to qualifications in mechanical engineering/manufacturing.

At work you’ll:

• Assist in setting up, operating, and monitoring CNC lathes, mills, or grinding machines for valve components
• Use callipers, micrometres, depth gauges, and coordinate measuring machines (CMM) to check tolerances
• Learn CNC programming languages to modify or adjust machine operations
• Learn how to read and interpret blueprints, CAD drawings and technical instructions
• Conduct basic quality checks and reporting deviations

Apprenticeships include time away from working for specialist training and the college element of this Apprenticeship has typically been on “day release”, so there is an expectation to work onsite and study at college. The successful candidate will study Machining Technician (level 3) to gain professional knowledge and skills and will attend Kirklees College Engineering Centre in Huddersfield one day per week for the duration of the apprenticeship. The final year will involve completion of a portfolio and preparation for End Point Assessment (EPA). This measures the skills, knowledge and behaviours outlined in the standard and is carried out by ESFA approved organisations independent from the college. 

Essential qualifications

GCSEs in:

• English (grade 5 or above)
• Maths (grade 6/B or above)
• 3 other GCSES (grade 4 / C or above)

Let us know about any other relevant qualifications and industry experience you have.

Skills required:

• Attention to detail
• Problem solving skills
• Patience
• Mathematic skills
• Persistence
• Reliable
• Punctual
• Troubleshooting Skills
• Good work ethic

What happens when I finish my apprenticeship? Once our apprentices have successfully completed their Apprenticeship standard, and subject to vacancies at the time, there will be an opportunity to apply for further employment. KKI offer career progression & development opportunities for Higher Education i.e. Studying for an HNC/HND, Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering Industry Certifications – Gaining qualifications in production engineering for the right candidates.

CLOSING DATE: 25th April 2025