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.
The role of a London Underground engineering apprentice is critical in 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 fully 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?
Apprentices will have the opportunity to learn from experienced and qualified staff through various placements across the organisation, gaining a broad spectrum of knowledge with a hands-on approach to learning.
As a London Underground LV Cables Apprentice, individuals will work alongside competent teams to ensure that LV Cables Assets are maintained and delivered into service safely and efficiently. Throughout the apprenticeship, individuals will be placed across a range of departments within the LV Cables areas, gaining experience and insight into how the LV Cables Divisions function.
During the programme, apprentices will:
- Learn how to read Electrical and Mechanical Drawings
- Be trained to write reports and conduct fault-finding analysis
- Understand and apply principles, practices, and legislation related to the termination and connection of conductors, cables, and cords in electrical systems
On completion of the apprenticeship, individuals will qualify as a Qualified Electrician and an LV Cable Jointer. Additionally, there will be an opportunity to work towards becoming an IRSE Licensed Electrical Traction Distribution Technician.
Working within the Power Delivery Unit of the Asset Performance Directorate of London Underground, the role will focus on maintaining, upgrading, and operating power assets. This will also include fault rectification and providing support to other units in relation to power assets.
Key Responsibilities:
- Identify tasks and assemble materials
- Check tools, equipment, and materials for fitness for purpose (covered by IRSE 4.2.110)
- Manage the work site and work safely at all times
- Address problems effectively and report any issues that cannot be resolved
- Follow correct processes and operations for allocated tasks
- Establish and maintain communication with relevant personnel
- Ensure tasks are completed within the apprentice’s level of authority and competence (covered by IRSE 4.2.110)
- Perform testing procedures using the appropriate equipment and methods
- Take corrective action to rectify defective assets
- Handover assets in accordance with company procedures
- Complete documentation in line with company policies
Where Can This Career Take You?
This apprenticeship is just the starting point of a career, with endless opportunities for growth.
Upon successful completion, apprentices could progress into a Senior Technician role. After gaining valuable experience and knowledge within the LV Cable department, apprentices may choose to advance to a Team Leader role, and eventually to a Works Controller position. Many Team Leaders and Managers within the department began as support staff and progressed through the ranks—this apprenticeship offers the same opportunity for career advancement.
Additionally, apprentices will have opportunities to complete further training courses, which may include:
- Soft skills training
- Safety training
- Technical skills training
What Does TfL Look for in Candidates?
TfL seeks candidates who align with its core values and demonstrate the following qualities:
- Analytical and logical thinking
- Commitment to continuous learning
- Creativity and innovation
- Attention to quality and detail
- Strong teamwork skills
- A sense of responsibility, accountability, and ownership
- The ability to embrace change and drive innovation
Core Values
TfL values candidates who are:
- Caring – About colleagues, customers, and their work
- Open – To new ideas, teamwork, and collaboration
- Adaptable – Willing to innovate and adjust to evolving challenges
Qualifications Gained
Apprentices will complete the following qualifications/training:
- Three months at college to achieve a Level 2 Performing Engineering Operations (PEO) qualification
- Level 3 Electrotechnical Qualification (Installation Pathway)
Additionally, apprentices will have the opportunity to complete various additional training courses, further enhancing their skills and knowledge within London Underground.
Apprentices will also be able to join TfL’s Graduate and Apprentice Committee and Alumni Group, which provide valuable networking opportunities and career development support. These groups frequently organise apprentice-only events, which are highly beneficial for continued learning and career progression.
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.
What TfL Offers
Apprentices will enjoy excellent benefits and long-term career prospects, including:
- Free travel on the TfL network for the apprentice and one nominated person living 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.
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