Mechanical Engineering Graduate Scheme
Every Journey Matters
Meet the Graduate/Alumni*"I love that I can tailor my placements to help target my specific interests and development objectives, from track to rolling stock and everything in between. The mix between site and office work really helps my understanding as a visual learner and makes no day the same!
Everyone on the scheme and supporting the scheme are so friendly and encouraging - I know I made the right decision for myself and my career by joining the TfL graduate scheme."*
- Olivia, Mechanical Engineering Graduate
Fun FactOur engineers are at the heart of the design and innovation that enables 30 million customer journeys around the Capital every single day.
Salary£31,000, rising to £32,250 in the second year.
LocationLondon/Hybrid
- Based in London with hybrid working arrangements.
- Typically, up to 50% remote working, with some courses and placements requiring full-time attendance.
- All employees have the right to request flexible working arrangements, which are considered reasonably.
What We OfferTfL provides excellent benefits and ample opportunities for growth, including:
- Free travel on the TfL network for you and a nominee in your household.
- Final salary pension scheme.
- Discounted national rail and Eurostar travel.
- 30 days annual leave (pro rata) plus public and bank holidays.
- Private healthcare discounted scheme.
- Tax-efficient cycle-to-work programme.
- Retail, health, leisure, and travel offers.
Duration2 years.
Entry Requirements- A minimum of a 2:2 MEng or MSc degree accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related subject.
Your offer will be subject to a satisfactory medical assessment.
Start Date8th September 2025.
Job OverviewTfL Engineers work on assets that form the foundation of London’s transport system. This graduate scheme develops world-class mechanical engineers, equipping them to become future leaders, subject matter experts, and senior engineers.
You will solve meaningful challenges across various transport modes, collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams, customers, local government, and supply chains.
Current Projects Include:- Piccadilly Line Upgrade – Transforming the existing signalling system and procuring a modern train fleet.
- Step-Free Access – Enhancing Tube and Overground station accessibility.
- Bus Electrification – Upgrading buses to achieve zero tailpipe emissions.
- New Station Construction – Expanding London Overground to increase network capacity.
SustainabilitySustainability is intrinsic to TfL’s ethos. Graduates will contribute to creating a greener, healthier, and more prosperous city, helping deliver world-class sustainable solutions.
What Will I Be Doing?Your two-year development programme will consist of eight placement rotations, each offering unique challenges and opportunities for learning and growth.
Year 1Placement 1: Rolling Stock Enhancements (3 months)
- Work on train upgrade projects using 3D CAD.
- Develop, test, and implement solutions on vehicles.
Placement 2: Track Engineering (3 months)
- Trial new technologies to detect faults.
- Carry out risk simulations and track inspections.
- Gain exposure to night-time track maintenance work.
Placement 3: Lifts and Escalators Engineering (3 months)
- Understand safety standards and implement technology updates.
- Review system designs to enhance accessibility.
Placement 4: Depot Operational Engineering (3 months)
- Conduct root-cause analysis and hands-on maintenance.
- Implement upgrades designed by the rolling stock team.
Year 2Placement 5: Station Systems Engineering (3 months)
- Deliver power-saving projects.
- Use Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to simulate wind speeds, cooling, and passenger flow.
Placement 6: Project Sponsorship (3 months)
- Engage stakeholders and define project requirements.
- Work on projects targeting London’s Net Zero and Accessibility goals.
Placement 7: Major Projects (3 months)
- Gain commercial experience in large-scale projects such as Crossrail 2 and Tube Upgrades.
Placement 8: Building Services Engineering (3 months)
- Implement step-free access upgrades at stations.
- Plan and maintain bus station accommodation enhancements.
Where Can This Career Take Me?- Within five years, you should achieve Chartered Engineer status with the IMechE.
- Within ten years, you could progress to Senior Engineer, technical expert, or leadership roles responsible for engineering team performance and strategic decisions.
What Training and Support Will You Get?TfL’s award-winning training ensures you receive comprehensive professional development, including:
- Placement Manager – Day-to-day management and development support.
- Scheme Sponsor – Senior-level guidance on technical and career advancement.
- Buddy – A second-year graduate to help with onboarding and integration.
- IMechE Mentor – Career coaching and support towards Chartered status.
What Do We Look For?TfL values candidates who are:
- Caring: Passionate about colleagues, customers, and meaningful work.
- Open: Collaborative and innovative.
- Adaptable: Able to respond to diverse challenges with creativity.
What Qualifications Will I Gain?- Gain experience and skills for a successful engineering career.
- Receive support to achieve Chartered Engineer status with the IMechE.
Application ProcessThe process involves five stages, including online assessments. Applicants are encouraged to review the full process thoroughly before applying.
Please click on this link for which describes each stage of the https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/careers/how-to-apply-for-apprentice-and-graduate-roles?intcmp=66755
Inclusive Recruitment ProcessTfL is a Disability Confident employer, committed to removing barriers for disabled candidates.
- Guaranteed interviews are offered to candidates meeting minimum criteria.
- Reasonable adjustments are available throughout the process.
Contact UsFor queries or reasonable adjustments, contact:
- Phone: 0203 005 1680 (Mon–Fri, 9:00–17:30).
- Email: EarlyCareersCampaigns@tfl.gov.uk