Job Overview
Transport for London (TfL) is seeking Quantity Surveying apprentices to support the transformation of London’s infrastructure. Quantity Surveyors play a vital role in ensuring value for money across major projects, from station upgrades and network extensions to purchasing new trains and buses.
As part of a project team, apprentices will gain hands-on experience in upgrading TfL’s infrastructure, which dates back to 1863, while ensuring an efficient and cost-effective service. They will be involved in modernisation projects, helping to:
- Improve station capacity and reduce congestion.
- Enhance customer experience through new trains and buses.
- Introduce technology updates to improve reliability and reduce wait times.
- Develop sustainable construction solutions for a growing city.
Sustainability at TfL
Sustainability is central to all of TfL’s construction projects. Quantity Surveyors play an important role in:
- Ensuring sustainable design choices during early feasibility stages.
- Assessing construction methods, techniques, and materials for environmental impact.
- Promoting sustainable procurement to minimise carbon footprints.
This apprenticeship offers a unique opportunity to contribute to London’s future, ensuring that projects are cost-effective, efficient, and environmentally responsible.
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 A-C / Grade 4 and above)**, including Maths and English.
- 3 A-Levels at BCC (or equivalent, such as International Baccalaureate, UCAS Tariff points, BTEC Extended Diploma, or BTEC Diploma) in any subject.
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.
All applicants will be required to provide original certificates and/or predicted grades as proof for eligibility checks.
Age Requirement: Applicants must be 18 years old by 8th September 2025 to be eligible.
Entry criteria are subject to change due to retendering of apprenticeship training provision.
What Will the Apprenticeship Involve?
This is a five-year programme consisting of placements across various TfL teams. The aim is to provide a comprehensive understanding of cost management and contract administration in transport infrastructure projects.
Each apprentice’s journey will be unique, but the typical structure includes:
Year 1:
- Placement 1 – Highways (6 months)
Supporting large and small projects, including carriageway resurfacing, footways, drainage, structures, streetlighting, and vehicle restraint systems.
Working with Procurement, Estimating, Sponsorship, Engineering, Finance, and Delivery teams.
- Placement 2 – Station and Depot Enhancements (6 months)
Working on LU stations and depots upgrades.
Gaining experience in contract administration, cost forecasting, and cost reporting.
Year 2:
- Placement 3 – Piccadilly Line Upgrade (6 months)
Supporting one of TfL’s largest strategic programmes.
Involvement in post-contract administration, payment applications, compensation events, early warnings, and contract communications.
- Placement 4 – Docklands Light Railway (6 months)
Managing post-contract administration on major projects.
Working on a £5m NEC Option C project and a £2m bespoke 1FM contract.
Collaborating with the DLR franchisee to support contract management.
After two years, placements transition to year-long rotations, allowing apprentices to gain deeper knowledge and specialised expertise.
Where Can This Career Lead?
Upon successful completion, apprentices will:
- Achieve a Degree in Quantity Surveying.
- Gain full professional membership (MRICS) of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.
Typical career progression includes:
- Commercial Manager – overseeing contracts, cost management, and project budgets.
- Project Manager – leading infrastructure projects from start to completion.
- Dispute Resolution Professional – managing contractual disputes and claims.
- Forensic Planning & Cost Analysis Specialist – ensuring efficient project delivery and financial control.
MRICS status is globally recognised, offering career opportunities both in the UK and internationally.
What Qualifications Will Be Gained?
- BSc (Hons) Degree in Quantity Surveying.
- Full Professional Membership of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (MRICS).
Training & Support
Apprentices will receive comprehensive support throughout the programme, including:
- Technical development through on-the-job experience and placements.
- Professional development via a combination of classroom-led training courses, online learning, mentoring, and structured networking opportunities.
- One-to-One Guidance Will Be Provided By:
- Placement Manager – Responsible for day-to-day management and development support.
- Scheme Sponsor – A senior manager who acts as a technical and professional adviser and people leader.
- Buddy System – Support from a current apprentice or graduate.
- Development Adviser – Providing career coaching and professional development guidance.
What TfL Looks for in Candidates
TfL seeks motivated individuals who demonstrate the following qualities:
- Attention to detail – ensuring contracts and budgets are managed accurately.
- Problem-solving skills – working with project teams to overcome financial and logistical challenges.
- Commercial awareness – understanding project costs, value for money, and procurement best practices.
- Communication skills – working with internal and external stakeholders to ensure projects remain on budget and on schedule.
TfL’s Core Values:
- Caring – about colleagues, customers, and work.
- Openness – to new ideas, collaboration, and innovation.
- Adaptability – responding to diverse needs and changing demands.
Assessment Process
Applicants will receive support and information throughout the assessment process.
More details on the TfL website:
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/careers/how-to-apply-for-apprentice-and-graduate-roles
- Online Assessments: Applicants will have one week to complete each assessment.
- Assessment Centres:
Scheduled from April to June.
Most roles have only one assessment day (dates cannot be rescheduled).
Assessments may be conducted in person or virtually, depending on the role.
Inclusive Recruitment Process
TfL is a Disability Confident Employer and offers guaranteed interviews to candidates who meet the minimum criteria.
Applicants requiring reasonable adjustments should notify TfL as soon as possible.
Contact Information
For further details or to request reasonable adjustments, please use the following contact information:
Phone: 0203 005 1680
Email: earlycareerscampaigns@tfl.gov.uk