Job Overview
TfL’s Engineers focus on maintaining and improving the critical assets that form the foundation of the transport system. This includes managing 800 trains, overseeing bus contracts, and maintaining both modern, computer-driven assets and older mechanical systems.
With the introduction of new technology, a diverse workforce is needed to support these advancements. This work aligns with the Mayor’s Transport Strategy, which focuses on:
- Reducing electrical consumption
- Achieving carbon neutrality by 2030
- Significantly reducing emissions from the bus fleet
What Will You Be Doing?
The four-year development programme will include up to 15 placement rotations, providing apprentices with a broad range of skills and experience. TfL recognises that each apprentice’s journey is unique, and the programme is structured to allow for tailored development.
Programme Overview
Year 1
- Placement 1 – Rolling Stock Depot (4-6 months)
Maintenance improvements, modifications, and service delivery
- Placement 2 – Rolling Stock Engineering Support (4-6 months)
Engineering improvements, incident response, and technical support
Year 2
- Placement 1 – Docklands Light Railway (2-4 months)
New train introduction and contract management
- Placement 2 – Response Team (2-4 months)
Engineering response to asset incidents and failures
- Placement 3 – Technical Services (2-4 months)
Train testing, environmental testing, and audio-visual testing
Flexibility in Years 3 & 4
- Apprentices will have the option to tailor their placements, agreed with their scheme sponsor.
- Some placements are compulsory, while others are optional.
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 one 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 (Grade 4/C and above) (or equivalent) in Maths and English Language
- Hold two A-Levels (A - D) in any subject* (or equivalent)
- Be 18 years old before 8th September 2025
- Not already hold or be undertaking a qualification at the same or higher level in a related subject or have already studied content from this qualification
Applicants will be required to provide original certificates and/or predicted grades as proof during eligibility checks.
Where Can This Career Take You?
Upon successful completion, apprentices may transition into roles within:
- Rolling Stock/Trams Engineering
- Design Engineering
- Reliability Engineering
- Train Testing
- Progression to Senior Engineer is typically expected within 5-10 years.
Professional Registration
- This is a Level 4 Apprenticeship.
- On completion, apprentices will meet the requirements for registration as an Engineering Technician with a relevant Professional Engineering Institution.
Training & Support
Qualifications Gained
Apprentices will work towards a:
- Level 4 qualification in Vehicles Engineering
Training will include:
- College attendance for five weeks in weekly blocks
- On-the-job learning through practical experiences and placements
- Professional development through structured courses, mentoring, and networking opportunities
Additional Support
Throughout the scheme, apprentices will receive:
- One-to-one support from their scheme sponsor and Line Manager
- Mentoring and guidance from a buddy (an experienced apprentice from the scheme)
What TfL Looks for in Candidates
TfL seeks candidates who demonstrate the following qualities:
- Caring – About colleagues, customers, and their work
- Open – To new ideas, collaboration, and continuous improvement
- Adaptable – Willing to innovate and adjust to evolving challenges
Ideal Candidate Attributes:
- Innovative and proactive
- Creative with attention to detail
- Collaborative and adaptable
- Practical with a passion for hands-on engineering
Candidates will be given responsibility and the opportunity to make an impact from an early stage. Those who are excited by the prospect of influencing the future of London’s transport network are encouraged to apply.
Important Information
The job offer will be subject to a satisfactory medical assessment, including:
- Drugs and alcohol screening
- Eye test
- Hearing test
Application Process
You will receive support and information around each assessment stage as you progress through your application.
Please see link on TfL website providing further guidance:
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/careers/how-to-apply-for-apprentice-and-graduate-roles
- Assessments must be completed within one week – re-issues are not possible
- Assessment centres for apprenticeship roles will take place from April to June
Inclusive Recruitment Process
TfL operates a transparent and inclusive recruitment process. 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