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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply?

To receive an application pack you can either :

•  Call Forth Valley College on 01324 403272
• Email applications@forthvalley.ac.uk
• Visit the Forth Valley College web site by clicking here.

 When will I hear back about the progress of my application?

We will endeavour to contact all candidates within 3 weeks of the closing date.

When will interviews / assessment days be held?

Initial assessment will take place at Forth Valley College in early March. There will be further assessment events for successful candidates starting late March / early April. These will take place at the Grangemouth site.

What will happen at assessment?

At the assessment events candidates will participate in a number of activities these include interview, group exercise and practical testing.

What qualifications do you need?

Candidates must have or be expecting to gain Standard Grade Level 3 or above in Maths and English Plus either Standard Grade 3 in Chemistry, or Physics Plus Standard Grade 3 in one of either Biology, Mechatronics, Technological Studies, Chemistry or Physics (if not already picked from the above), Craft, Graphic Communications, Craft & Design.

I applied last year do I need to reapply?

Yes. We require that candidates reapply by submitting a new application form.

When are you looking for people to start?

We anticipate that successful candidates will start their apprenticeship in September.

Where will apprentices be located during the apprenticeship?

As part of the apprenticeship scheme, all candidates will be given vocational placements, located at INEOS’ Grangemouth site. For the first year of the modern apprenticeship, candidates will be primarily located at Forth Valley College, Falkirk.

Who will be the apprentices’ employer?

While on the course they will be sponsored by INEOS. Our training provider, Forth Valley College will employ the apprentices.

What are apprentices expected to get from the course?

They will gain a National Vocational Qualification at Level 3 and an HNC in their chosen discipline.

What happens at the end of the programme?

By the time apprentices reach the end of the programme, they will have demonstrated competency in a specific area (e.g. as a Mechanical, Instrument & Electrical or Process Technician) and will have achieved an HNC qualification. On successful completion of HNC and NVQ Level 3, apprentices will be considered for INEOS technician roles at the Grangemouth site.

What do technicians do?

Technicians are fundamental to ensuring the safety, availability, reliability and maintenance of the plant. Technicians are required to work in teams to meet production targets. The role of a technician varies depending on the chosen discipline and the area of the plant in which you work. We have three main types of technician:

• Process Technicians
  
  The purpose of the post is to install, maintain and repair mechanical equipment to allow the manufacturing process to operate in a safe, reliable and cost effective manner.
  
  
• Mechanical Technicians
  
  The purpose of the post is to start-up, control and shutdown process plant and equipment to allow the manufacturing process to operate in a safe, reliable and cost effective manner.
  
  
• Instrument and Electrical Technicians
  
  The purpose of the post is to install maintain and repair electrical and instrumental equipment to allow the manufacturing process to operate in a safe, reliable and cost effective manner.

How much will I be paid?

Your starting salary as an apprentice will be approximately £5,850 per annum. It will increase to approximately £10,400 per annum over the apprenticeship scheme. On completion of the scheme you can expect to be earning circa £25,000 as an INEOS technician.

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