Job Overview
Transport for London’s (TfL) Telecoms Engineering Apprenticeship offers an opportunity to work on the systems and assets that form the foundation of the transport network.
These Telecoms Engineers are responsible for the design and acceptance of new communication solutions across London Underground and other TfL transport modes, utilising both legacy and modern communications equipment. Systems delivered by these engineers play a crucial role in supporting the delivery of an efficient and reliable transport service.
This is a 4-year programme (plus End-Point Assessment) that offers hybrid working, with 50% of the time split between the office and home over a 4-week period (subject to business requirements).
What TfL Offers
Successful applicants will have access to a range of benefits, including:
- Free travel on the TfL network for the apprentice and a nominee who lives in the same household.
- Discounted national rail and Eurostar travel.
- Minimum of 29 days annual leave, plus public and bank holidays.
- Tax-efficient cycle-to-work programme.
- Access to a range of retail, health, leisure, and travel offers.
Entry Requirements
Applicants should already hold or be working towards a minimum of:
- 2 GCSEs (Grade 4/C and above), including Maths and English Language (or equivalent).
- 3 A-Levels (grades BBB or equivalent), which must include Maths and/or Physical Sciences.
Candidates with equivalent Level 3 qualifications must hold or be on track to achieve one of the following:- BTEC National Diploma (DDM), including Level 3 Mathematics and Physical Sciences (128 UCAS points).
- EAL Technical Extended Diploma in Engineering Technologies (D), including Further Engineering Mathematics and relevant Electrical, Mechanical, or Civil Engineering options.
- Access to HE qualifications with 24 Distinctions and 21 Merits, with at least half the course in Mathematics and Physical Science subjects (122 UCAS points).
- Other equivalent Level 3 qualifications worth 120 UCAS points, including Mathematics and Physical Sciences.
Please note: Applicants are not eligible if they currently hold or are working towards a qualification at the same or higher level in a related subject.
What Will the Apprenticeship Involve?
The 4-year development programme will consist of 6 to 9 placement rotations, providing broad technical expertise and hands-on experience.
Year 1:
- Operational Communications Systems (Stations) – 6 months
Supporting a communications system upgrade project, including design reviews, system delivery, risk assessment, and testing & commissioning.
- Fixed Transmission Systems – 3 months
Assisting in the delivery of IP and legacy communications systems, including incident investigations and risk assessment.
- Wireless Systems – 3 months
Working with radio systems used by TfL staff and Emergency Services.
Helping with specification, testing, and delivery of system changes.
Year 2:
- Surface Operational Systems – 6 months
Gaining hands-on experience with SCADA, CCTV, and Radio systems.
- LU Asset Operations – 3 to 6 months
Working in communications systems operations and maintenance, collaborating with internal and external maintainers.
- Cyber Security – 1 to 2 months
Learning about engineering cyber security and responding to cyber security incidents.
Year 3:
- Capital Delivery – 6 months
Working on major projects, such as new rolling stock delivery or communications system upgrades.
- Final Placement – 6 months
Returning to a preferred placement to refine expertise in a chosen area.
Additional Placement Information:
- Placements vary between 3 to 6 months, ensuring a breadth of technical experience across multiple projects.
- All apprentices will gain experience in Engineering Safety Management and Cyber Security.
- Opportunities exist to work in Rolling Stock, Rail, or Road Signalling, depending on interests and business needs.
Where Can This Career Lead?
Upon successful completion of this scheme, apprentices could transition into a Telecoms Engineering role, working on:
- Designing modifications to existing communication systems.
- Implementing and maintaining new communication technologies.
This programme provides an excellent foundation for career progression within the Telecoms Discipline at TfL.
Training & Support
Apprentices will work towards a Level 6 qualification as a Railway System Engineer.
Typically, attendance at college one day per week will be required.
TfL provides on-the-job training, mentoring, and networking opportunities to support technical and professional development.
Apprentices will also receive one-to-one guidance from:
- Placement Manager – providing day-to-day guidance.
- Scheme Sponsor – a senior manager offering technical and professional advice.
- Buddy System – support from a current apprentice or graduate.
- Development Adviser – offering career coaching and progression support.
What TfL Looks for in Candidates
TfL seeks candidates who demonstrate the following qualities:
- Caring – about colleagues, customers, and work.
- Open-minded – to new ideas, collaboration, and teamwork.
- Adaptable – able to innovate and respond to evolving challenges.
Those with a passion for engineering and technology and a desire to shape the future of London’s transport network are encouraged to apply.
Assessment Process
Applicants will receive support and information throughout the assessment process.
Please see link on TfL website providing further guidance:
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/careers/how-to-apply-for-apprentice-and-graduate-roles
- Online Assessments: Applicants will have 1 week to complete each assessment.
- Assessment Centres:
Held from February to April.
Each role typically has one assessment day (dates cannot be rescheduled).
Assessments may be conducted in person or virtually, depending on the role.
Important Information:
There may be a requirement to work ad hoc night shifts in line with business needs.
Inclusive Recruitment Process
TfL is committed to removing barriers for disabled candidates and is a Disability Confident Employer.
Guaranteed interviews are available for candidates who meet the minimum criteria.
A fair and transparent reasonable adjustments process is in place, in collaboration with Occupational Health and expert organisations.
Contact information
For reasonable adjustments or further information, applicants should contact TfL directly.
Phone: 0203 005 1680 (Monday – Friday, 09:00 – 17:30, excluding bank holidays)
Email: apprenticeshiprecruitment@tfl.gov.uk