Apprenticeship Information
A project controls technician controls, monitors and systematically analyses progress and performance data on engineering, manufacturing, construction, and infrastructure projects.
They require strong analytical skills and a practical approach to interpret technical information.
They use specific, complex software tools to undertake a wide range of project controls tasks, including identifying the right data for scrutinising progress; setting baseline targets; tracking progress and performance; forecasting trends; identifying, modelling and anticipating deviations from baseline; assessing the impact of design / construction changes; and using insight to recommend early preventative and remedial actions.
Qualifications Gained
- Level 3 ECITB Diploma in Project Controls Practice.
- Assessment of Knowledge, skills and behaviours.
- End point assessment.
Duration
30 months
Start any time
Assessment Covers
The apprenticeship standard assesses the apprentices knowledge, skills and behaviours and covers the following;
Knowledge
Project controls; technical information; estimating; planning and scheduling; cost engineering; work breakdown and coding structures; tracking data and progress reports; analysis techniques; technical, engineering and mathematical principles; importance of safety; employer organisation, management and procedures; commercial matters; project controls related software and IT systems.
Skills
Develop work breakdown and coding structures; manage data; estimate; schedule and plan; cost engineer and control; monitor progress/performance and analyse data; use computer based technology; problem solve; effectively communicate; input to project closeout; observe and apply professional ethics; apply safety; and work in accordance with company management systems.
Behaviours
Strong work ethic; team player; positive attitude; attention to detail; committed to own learning, and applies and upholds principles of social responsibility, environmental sustainability, equality and diversity.
Alex helps to support learners through the End Point Assessment process when it comes towards the end of their apprenticeship.
We understand that the end point assessment is a daunting and challenging experience. We have vast experience of how it all works, and as a result of this, can give valuable support to all learners reaching the EPA.
Knowledge Delivery
The knowledge element of the apprenticeship standard is delivered over a 24 month rolling period whereby we cover the following subjects.
- Effective communication and behaviour
- Fundamentals of project control
- Estimating, planning, cost techniques and commercial awareness
- Procurement activities
- Risk and opportunity management
- Lean optimisation practice and techniques
- Scheduling practice and techniques
- Scope interpretation and project controls planning
- Work, cost breakdown and coding structures
- IT software and data controls
*Each of these units has an examination that needs to be completed in order for the apprentice to progress
Delivery Methods
Learners will build a portfolio of evidence to demonstrate their occupational competence, supported by our experienced in-house assessors. Assessments are conducted every 8 to 10 weeks and can take place face-to-face at the employer’s premises or remotely via our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), ensuring flexibility and minimal disruption to the workplace.
The ECITB Diploma is delivered by our qualified tutors through a day-release model – one day per week during the academic year. Learners have the option to attend sessions in person at our Barnsley centre or participate remotely from anywhere in England via our VLE.
The ECITB Diploma can also be delivered through a block release programme, where apprentices attend our Barnsley site for eight separate training blocks, each lasting three weeks.
End Point Assessment
The End-Point Assessment (EPA), is the final stage of the apprenticeship. This is an impartial assessment as to whether your apprentice has gained the required skills, knowledge and behaviours set out in the apprenticeship standard.
EPA’s are designed by relevant employers in industry to assess the competence of the apprentice at the end of their apprenticeship.
The EPA for the Project Controls Technician apprenticeship standard consists of the following:
Knowledge Test
This provides each apprentice with an opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge and understanding required. This is an invigilated, closed book test whereby the apprentice has both simple and complex multiple choice questions that take around 90 minutes to complete.
Practical Test
It is critical that the apprentice is able to demonstrate that they can apply their technical skills, knowledge and behaviours. This is a two hour test, based on real world scenarios, undertaking technical data analysis, paying attention to detail, potential issues and communicating this effectively.
Structured Interview
The interview will focus on assessing the apprentice’s application of knowledge, skills and behaviours and attitude. Normally the interview lasts for around 60-80 minutes.
