Job Overview
London Underground plays an essential role in the city’s development, covering 253 miles, serving 275 stations, and carrying more than five million passengers per day.
TfL’s engineers focus on the assets that form the foundation of the transport system. The role of a London Underground engineering apprentice is critical to ensuring the ongoing performance and safety of the tube network. As technological advancements continue to improve trains and operating infrastructure, the maintenance of assets must evolve to ensure peak performance. Apprentices will be at the forefront of these developments, while also ensuring that legacy assets across the network remain operational.
Sustainability
Sustainability is intrinsic to TfL’s work ethos, ensuring that the organisation operates in a sustainable way to protect and regenerate the natural world.
What Will You Be Doing?
The three-year development programme will consist of multiple placement rotations across the London Underground network. This will equip apprentices with a range of skills and experience needed for a successful career. As each career path is unique, the programme is designed to offer tailored opportunities.
As a Lift & Escalator Apprentice, individuals will develop skills and experience across various areas of the London Underground network. Apprentices will service, maintain, and repair escalator or lift assets during overnight shifts while the public sleeps. Additionally, they will have the opportunity to join the heavy refurbishment team and inspectors.
A placement plan will be issued and managed by the Apprenticeship Development Manager, ensuring apprentices receive the maximum exposure needed to gain the knowledge and competence required for the role.
Shift Work
The apprenticeship scheme will require working flexible hours, including early, late, night, and weekend shifts.
Where Can This Career Take You?
Upon successful completion of the scheme, apprentices could progress into a multi-skilled Fitter 2 role, with career development opportunities leading to Fitter 1, Team Leader, or Area Manager positions.
There will also be opportunities to complete additional training courses, ranging from soft skills development to technical training.
Many members of TfL’s Lifts & Escalator senior management team began their careers through this apprenticeship scheme and have progressed to executive-level positions—apprentices will have the opportunity to shape their own future.
Training & Support
Qualifications Gained
Apprentices will initially complete a Level 2 college-delivered PEO (Performing Engineering Operations) in fundamental engineering skills.
Following this, they will work towards:
- Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Engineering Maintenance, obtained through a range of workplace placements.
- Potential to obtain a University-Delivered Level 4 Knowledge Certificate, depending on the apprenticeship programme.
- Completion of the Lift and Escalator Electromechanic Level 3 Apprenticeship Standard.
Throughout the scheme, apprentices will receive technical development support through on-the-job training, practical experiences, and placement rotations.
Additional Support
Professional development will be further supported through:
- Classroom-led and online training courses
- Mentoring opportunities
- Structured networking sessions
- One-to-one guidance from a Line Manager
What TfL Offers
Apprentices will enjoy excellent benefits and long-term career development opportunities, including:
- Free travel on the TfL network for the apprentice and a nominated person in the same household.
- Discounted national rail and Eurostar travel.
- Minimum 29 days annual leave (pro-rata, depending on role), plus public and bank holidays.
- Tax-efficient cycle-to-work scheme.
- Retail, health, leisure, and travel discounts.
Entry Requirements
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Hold or be working towards a minimum of two GCSEs (A-C / Grade 4 or above)* (or equivalent), including Maths and English Language.
- Be 18 years old by 8th September 2025.
- Not already hold or be undertaking the same Apprenticeship Standard elsewhere.
Applicants will be required to provide original certificates and/or predicted grades as proof during eligibility checks.
Medical Requirements
If successful, offers will be subject to a satisfactory medical examination, which may include:
- Drugs and alcohol screening
- Hearing test
- Eyesight tests, including Ishihara Plates and Colour Assessment & Diagnosis tests to assess colour deficiency
What Does TfL Look for in Candidates?
TfL seeks candidates who align with its core values:
- Caring – About colleagues, customers, and their work.
- Open – To new ideas, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- Adaptable – Willing to innovate and adjust to evolving challenges.
Assessment Process
Candidates will receive support and information throughout each assessment stage.
Please see link on TfL website providing further guidance:
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/careers/how-to-apply-for-apprentice-and-graduate-roles
- It is essential to check emails and deadlines carefully. Assessments must be completed within one week, and tests cannot be re-issued.
- Assessment centres for apprenticeship roles will take place from February to April.
- Some assessments will be conducted in person, while others will be held virtually, depending on the role.
Inclusive Recruitment Process
TfL operates a transparent and inclusive recruitment process, ensuring that candidates with disabilities are not disadvantaged. Reasonable adjustments can be provided at any stage of the application process.
As a Disability Confident Employer, TfL guarantees interviews for candidates who meet the minimum criteria for skills, knowledge, and experience.
For high-volume recruitment (including Graduate, Apprentice, and Intern roles), the minimum criteria typically involve achieving a pass mark in the first stage assessments.
Contact Information
For any queries or requests for reasonable adjustments, the recruitment team can be contacted via:
Phone: 0203 005 1680 (Monday to Friday, 09:00 – 17:30)
Email: earlycareerscampaigns@tfl.gov.uk