FACTORY
Footwear Production Apprenticeship
Dr. Martens is a globally recognisable and culturally influential British brand, with over 60 years of rich heritage. As brand custodians, we are lucky to work for a dynamic, thriving, and ethical business, with people from diverse backgrounds, who bring their true selves to work, and where anyone can grow their career.
We are guided by three core values that are at the heart of everything we do: be yourself, act courageously, and show you care. They make us who we are and inspire us to push boundaries, embrace our individuality, and stand up for what's right.
THE GIG
Ever wondered how our iconic products are made? Now’s your chance to find out!
We’re looking for passionate, hands-on individuals to become the next generation of Dr. Martens shoemakers—no experience needed.
As a Dr. Martens apprentice, you’ll work alongside the production team at our Made in England Factory inNorthamptonshireand learn the footwear production process from start to finish. Along the way, you will have the chance to learn job-specific skills whilst earning a wage, with time to study and further your development.
Surrounded by our footwear production experts, you’ll learn in a supportive and collaborative fast-paced environment, integrating traditional hands-on skills with innovative manufacturing technology
You will gain experience in the following areas:
Clicking: Operating cutting presses to specified quality standards, minimising wastage of skins and using innovative leather scanning and digital cutting technology.
Closing: Creating Dr. Martens uppers using a variety of sewing machines.
Lasting: Shaping the shoe around a last and attaching the sole to our famous yellow stitched welt.
Shoe room: Adding the final touches - lacing, cleaning, and boxing ready for dispatch.
After completing your apprenticeship, you’ll get a government-accredited qualification in Footwear Manufacturing Level 2 and there's the potential for a permanent position in the factory, where you will develop and hone your craft while continuing to learn new skills alongside past apprentices. This is a 15 month apprenticeship programme.
What else?
As our Footwear Apprentice, you will:
- Work hands-on with our product from day one, learning real skills whilst getting paid
- Be a Dr. Martens brand ambassador, knowledgeable about the history of footwear and the iconic brand
- Take an active role in social media, helping to run the Apprenticeship Instagram account and growing our followers
- Learn various elements of footwear construction - the tanning process, leather inspection and quality control.
- Create your very own custom pair of DMs as part of your final project
THE STUFF THAT SETS YOU APART
For this role, the key things we’re looking for are the following:
- A can-do attitude
- An eagerness to learn and work with your hands, developing honed skills through practice.
- A passion for the Dr. Martens brand
- The ability to hold focus and prioritise quality when carrying out repetitive tasks
- Attention to detail and a target-driven mindset
- English and Maths at Level 3/4 GCSE (equivalent to Grade C) or above.
Please note - If selected, you'll be invited for a chat with a member of the Talent Acquisition team, then to an assessment at the factory in Northamptonshire which will include a factory tour, four factory related tasks and a short interview. Assessment will take place on 10th and 12th of June.
WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?
- Welcome to the family free pair of docs
- 65% off all docs
- 2 paid volunteer days per year
- 12pm Friday finish
- Private healthcare
Are you ready to fill your boots? Apply now.
At Dr. Martens, we are committed to creating an environment in which we can all be our best and bring our authentic selves to work. We encourage applications, regardless of race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, age, veteran status, or disability. Diverse and inclusive teams have a positive impact on our brand; helping us to speak authentically to our consumers.
We strive to develop a business where our people can thrive and feel empowered to express themselves. Because we believe everyone should feel supported and included whatever their role in the Dr. Martens community.
