Fun Fact
Track renewals on the London Underground often take place within tight time windows, either during the overnight maintenance period between the last and first trains (typically 1am to 5am) or during planned possessions, where sections of the network are closed for a longer period, such as over a weekend.
Job Overview
TfL’s Construction Management Team is responsible for planning the renewal of life-expired assets, ensuring the ongoing performance and safety of the tube network.
As a Track Renewals Construction Management Apprentice, you will gain hands-on experience working across London’s iconic transport network, learning from highly skilled professionals. This role provides an opportunity to contribute to one of London’s most critical assets—its track infrastructure.
With over 402km of track carrying hundreds of trains daily, the Underground relies on a reliable and well-maintained system. Through regular placements, apprentices will work as part of a dedicated team under expert supervision, learning essential skills in track maintenance, fault repair, and renewals.
This apprenticeship is an opportunity to develop specialist knowledge, contribute to the smooth operation of the Underground, and play a key role in shaping the future of London’s transport network.
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
- Be 18 years old by 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.
Medical Requirements
Successful candidates will be required to pass a satisfactory medical assessment, which may include:
- Drugs and alcohol screening
- Hearing test
- Eyesight test, including Ishihara Plates and Colour Assessment & Diagnosis tests
What Will You Be Doing?
The three-year development programme consists of four to five 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 – Initial Placements
- Track Surveying
- Health and Safety Team
- Construction Management Team
- Operational Delivery
Year 1 – Training Courses - Basic Track Awareness
- Track Induction
- Face Fit Training for Mask Wearers
- SMSTS (Site Management Safety Training Scheme)
Year 2 – Specialised Placements
- Placement 1 – Deep Tube Renewals
- Placement 2 – Ballasted Track Renewals
Key Responsibilities
- Ensure quality standards are met and maintained
- Assist in construction planning, reviewing methodologies proposed by internal teams or suppliers
- Propose innovative solutions to overcome construction challenges
- Support risk management processes related to construction activities
Where Can This Career Take You?
Upon successful completion, apprentices may transition into roles such as:
- Construction Support Manager – Supporting the planning, delivery, and management of track projects
Apprentices will also have the opportunity to complete additional training courses to support continuous development.
Training & Support
Qualifications Gained
Apprentices will work towards a:
- Level 3 qualification in Rail Engineering Technician
- Level 3 Rail Engineering (Competence)
- Level 3 Rail Engineering (Technical Knowledge)
Training Structure
- College attendance (block release, typically 2 to 4 weeks per block)
- 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:
- Willing to learn
- Highly motivated
- Enthusiastic
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
Annual leave is pre-arranged to ensure timely completion of the apprenticeship. Typical leave includes:
- Two-week Easter break
- Two-week summer break
- One week in October
- One week during Christmas
- Public holidays
The apprenticeship will primarily involve day shifts, but occasional night and weekend shifts may be required.
The role includes manual activity, such as heavy lifting and moving equipment.
Assessment 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 February to April
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