22 Mar, 2011 / BY John Mayes

JJS, The Paragon Electronics Group’s manufacturing specialists, introduce the Advanced Apprenticeship Scheme

JJS Electronics, part of the £30m Paragon Electronics Group, has launched an Advanced Apprenticeship Scheme to attract talented new recruits to the company. With four apprenticeships available, the scheme will commence in September 2011, taking the form of a structured two -year apprenticeship followed by further specialist training and ongoing career development. This is an exciting opportunity for candidates who would like to pursue a career in the electronics industry within a well respected global organisation.

The Advanced Apprenticeship Scheme is part of JJS’ commitment to investing in the future generation of electronics and manufacturing professionals. The scheme allows those interested in pursuing a career in the electronics industry to take advantage of JJS’ wealth of knowledge, as well as providing them with a chance to gain hands-on experience within The Paragon Electronics Group. JJS enjoys excellent relationships with local schools and colleges, and vocational training will be complemented by offsite college courses covering a mix of electronic, electrical and mechanical principles, allowing the apprentices to add further skills and qualifications to their portfolio. Apprentices will also be appointed an experienced JJS mentor who will supervise them and ensure they develop at each stage within the scheme.

The roles available are; two Electronics Manufacturing Apprenticeships, an Electronics Test Apprenticeship and also an Electromechanical Apprenticeship. The objective is to assume shop-floor manufacturing responsibilities during and on completion of the apprenticeship, with potential to move into any other area of the business at JJS. The scheme takes the form of a varied programme covering electronic and electromechanical manufacturing, with time spent across eight departments including assembly, test, engineering, QA and commercial. During the course of the programme, academic training will be delivered at a local college to study for NVQ level 3 / 4 and there will also be opportunities for the apprentices to specialise in their chosen disciplines.

Paragon Group’s Director of Engineering, Russell Poppe , explains: “Apprentices will benefit from becoming part of a well established EMS specialist, backed by the strength of The Paragon Electronics Group. With over 300 employees at three sites in the UK and Czech Republic, the group is committed to investing in their employees and we have set up the apprenticeship scheme to make sure that we continue to employ skilled staff who will grow with the organisation. We feel that we can provide a great working environment for people to start their career with a growing company that has their best interests at heart. JJS will develop apprentices’ potential and will continue to support and encourage further training and career development once the apprenticeship has come to an end.”

Written by John Mayes

John is a business consultant with an extensive career spanning over 30 years. During this time Chris has set up, led, and acquired highly successful component distribution and EMS companies including Paragon Electronics and JJS Manufacturing.