Engineering Apprenticeship

Are you passionate about starting a career in the automotive industry? First Bus London are recruiting motivated individuals for its Bus & Coach MechElec Engineering Apprenticeship. This opportunity will enable you to gain valuable experience while working alongside a highly skilled team of professionals committed to excellence. The successful applicant will play an important role in helping to maintain and repair the First Bus London fleet of buses while developing your skills through hands‑on experience and formal training. You'll be working towards a nationally recognised qualification in Bus and Coach Engineering, gaining a solid foundation in both mechanical and electrical systems.

Daily Mechanical & Electrical Tasks You'll Be Involved In:

• Carry out vehicle inspections as part of the service maintenance program and MOT preparations
• Assist with service tasks of oils/filter changes and preventative component replacements
• Assist with fault diagnostic testing and repair on our fleet Electric, Hybrids and Diesel vehicles
• Support maintenance work including brake relines, component/unit failure and repairs

Workshop Duties:

• Learn to use basic and specialist tools including diagnostic equipment safely and effectively
• Help identify and order parts needed for maintenance and repairs
• Maintain a clean and organised work area, following good workshop practices
• Shadow experienced technicians to gain insights and learn industry best
• Document your work by recording completed tasks and parts used as part of your apprenticeship learning portfolio
• Periods of specialized training with our mobile Master Technicians, Wheelchair ramp shop and attending on‑road breakdowns with the garage engineers

Health & Safety:

• Follow all workshop safety rules and wear the correct PPE at all times
• Stay alert to risks and follow correct procedures to maintain a safe working environment for yourself and others
• Attend workshop‑based product and asset familiarisation training

Training Schedule:

As part of the Bus and Coach Engineering Technician (MechElec Route) Apprenticeship Standard, you’ll gain hands‑on experience in First Bus London's technical workshops while completing structured training through S&B Automotive Academy in Bedminster, Bristol. You’ll attend 6-8 one‑week (Mon‑Fri) training blocks per year at S&B's specialist academy alongside your workplace learning throughout the duration of your 3‑year apprenticeship. Each apprentice is supported by a dedicated workplace mentor and an S&B development coach. Together, they’ll monitor your progress and provide ongoing guidance via a personalised electronic logbook that both you and your employer can access at any time. At the end of each year, you’ll complete a Gateway Assessment to ensure you’re on track before moving on to the next stage, leading up to your End Point Assessment. Training will cover both mechanical and electrical systems, including diagnostics, fault finding, hybrid technology and modern vehicle systems relevant to bus and coach engineering.

For national apprentices attending block training in Bristol, S&B Automotive Academy is located a short walk from Bristol Temple Meads railway station. Railway Travel and Hotel Accommodation are fully funded by the employer. Accommodation during the weekly training blocks includes a standard double room (for single occupancy), Breakfast, two‑course evening meal and full compliance with S&B’s Safeguarding Policy.

First Bus London – Apprentice Depot Rotation:

First Bus London operates 9 bus depots across the city, forming the backbone of its apprentice training, learning, and development programme. To ensure apprentices gain a broad and practical understanding of mechanical and electrical systems across various operational environments, they will rotate between a combination of these locations during their apprenticeship. The operational bases include: Hounslow (TW3), Hounslow Heath (TW4), Fulwell (TW2), Shepherds Bush (W12), Stamford Brook (W4), Tolworth (KT5), Edgware (HA8), Harrow (HA1), and Westbourne Park (W9).

Requirements Desired Qualifications:

• GCSE English (Grade C/4/Functional Skill Level 2) desirable
• GCSE Maths (Grade C/4/Functional Skill Level 2) desirable

Skills:

• Communication skills
• Attention to detail
• Organizational skills
• Problem‑solving skills
• Analytical skills
• Logical
• Team working
• Initiative
• Non‑judgemental
• Physical fitness

After the Apprenticeship:

At First Bus London, we’re committed to supporting your ongoing development. This apprenticeship is just the beginning to develop a strong foundation for a rewarding career in the transport industry. Upon successful completion of your training, our aim is to offer you full‑time employment as a skilled Bus and Coach Engineering Technician, with further opportunities to grow and specialise within the business.

Closing Date for applications: 07/06/2026. Please note: We reserve the right to close the position early if application volumes are particularly high.

Proposed Assessment Days: 6th and 17th July 2026.