Job Overview
TfL’s Fleet Engineers play a crucial role in maintaining and upgrading the operational efficiency and safety of London Underground’s rolling stock. Their expertise ensures that the entire fleet of trains operates at optimal performance levels, incorporating both new and legacy assets.
Sustainability is intrinsic to TfL’s work ethos, and the organisation ensures that operations are conducted in a sustainable way to protect and regenerate the natural world.
What Will You Be Doing?
The three-year development programme consists of up to seven placement rotations across London. The programme is designed to provide apprentices with a broad range of skills and experiences. Every apprentice’s journey is tailored to their development needs.
Programme Overview
Year 1 – Foundational Training
- Introduction to London Underground and the fundamentals of engineering
- College-based learning at TfL’s partner college in Enfield
- Comprehensive training, including track safety protocols
- First placements within rolling stock depots
Year 2 – Hands-On Experience
- Operational engagement with experienced train maintainers
- Rotations across depots, gaining practical experience
- Further studies at Enfield college, focusing on engineering principles
- Proficiency development in mechanical, electrical, and hand tool usage
- Knowledge assessments and qualification-building activities
Year 3 – Specialised Placements & Qualification Completion
- Rotations through various placements, refining technical skills
- Completion of qualifications with knowledge assessments
- Final endorsement by an external engineering institute, confirming readiness for a full-time role as a train maintainer
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
Where Can This Career Take You?
Upon successful completion, apprentices may transition into roles such as:
- Train Maintainer – A critical hands-on role ensuring train performance and safety
- Advanced Train Maintainer – A progression step into senior maintenance roles
- Managerial Roles – Leadership opportunities within rolling stock operations
Additionally, apprentices will be at an Engineering Technician professional standard, with opportunities to pursue Engineering Chartership status in the future.
Apprentices may also undertake additional training courses, covering:
- Soft skills development
- Safety training
- Advanced technical skills
Training & Support
Qualifications Gained
Apprentices will work towards a:
- Level 3 qualification in Railway Engineering Technician (Rolling Stock)
- Level 3 Rail Engineering (Competence)
- Level 3 Rail Engineering (Technical Knowledge)
Training Structure
- Block placements at CONEL college in Enfield
- 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:
- Proactive and logical thinker
- Willing to learn and develop
- Motivated and enthusiastic about 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
- Shift work is required, including early, late, night, and weekend shifts
- Placement locations vary – apprentices may be placed at any of the 12 depots across London
- Some placements last up to four months
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 April onwards
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