At a Glance
- Tasks: Train as an Engineering Plant technician, learning to inspect, service, and repair essential systems.
- Company: Join GWR, a leader in transforming train travel with a focus on customer experience.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn, gain qualifications, and enjoy a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Be part of an award-winning apprenticeship that sets the standard in the industry.
- Qualifications: Must be over 16, with GCSEs in Maths and English at grade 4 or above.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for career growth and personal development.
The predicted salary is between 1200 - 1400 £ per month.
GWR is the proud custodian of Brunel's railway - one of the most prestigious networks in the world and with the newest trains in the country and exciting plans to extend our services. With more than one hundred million passenger journeys each year, we carry people to over 275 stations in the South West, from Cornwall to Bristol, South Wales and London, passing through beautiful country and some of the UK's top tourist destinations. We're changing the way people think about train travel, enabling our teams to make it a great experience for our customers. Together, we will restore the railways as a very special way to travel – friendly, relaxing, fast, efficient and fun.
About the team
The award-winning scheme is seen as the benchmark for the industry. The Apprentice programme is the holder of We Invest In Apprentices Gold Accreditation in the IIP process. The scheme has achieved significantly higher than national success and retention rates year on year since its inception. The apprentice scheme provides the talent pipeline for entry level grades and above for GWR. GWR is a place where you can truly be your unique self, thrive and be part of an awesome family.
About the job
As an Engineering Plant technician apprentice at GWR you'll train and learn whilst you earn. Everything from how to inspect, service, repair, fault find and react to faults with depot infrastructure, from lighting / heating systems to 415v shore supply systems and equipment that enables our Engineering depots to operate and in turn supports Engineering in delivering the train service for our customers. The apprenticeship is designed to maximise your full potential and provide you with the competencies, experiences and qualifications needed to become a skilled Engineer of the future.
Your main responsibilities will be
During your apprenticeship, you will study a level 2 & 3 qualification in electrical engineering, with an opportunity to progress to further qualifications throughout your career. Alongside training at the depot, you'll attend college to work towards your qualifications. In year 2 of the programme, you'll be given the opportunity to complete the Duke of Edinburgh Business Gold award.
You’ll need to be
You’ll enjoy working with people, have great communication, numerical and team working skills. You'll bring with you your enthusiasm to learn and a commitment to develop a career in engineering.
As a minimum, you will need to have
Essentially you must be over 16 years of age at the start of the programme, live within 1 hour of your chosen location above and have achieved Functional Skills Level 2 or GCSE grade 4 and above in Maths and English. You'll have good numerical, verbal and written communication skills.
About the location
You must live within a maximum of 60 minutes travelling time to the depot you apply for. (This means able to travel to work within 60 minutes for both your own travel and using public transport, which is not negotiable).
Working Pattern
For the first 2 years of the apprenticeship, you will do day shifts between 0700 and 2000, Monday through Saturday, with a rest day and study time during this period. For year 3 and 4 you will follow a 24/7 shift pattern. During periods of training, overnight stays may be required.
Additional Information
The apprenticeship scheme starts on 1st September 2026 and is for 4 years.
Recruitment Process
Completion of your applications. If you are short-listed, you will be invited to attend an assessment centre scheduled for week commencing. If short listed, you will be invited to attend a selection event scheduled for 18th April 2026 and Interviews following on 24th April 2026. This will then followed up by a face to face interview.
Salary Details
Starting Salary for Under 18's is £14,607 / Starting Salary for Over 18's is £24,557.
Contact Information
For more information regarding the application process, please contact the Recruitment Team at gwrrecruitment@gwr.com.
Diversity & Inclusion
We all belong at GWR. This is our vision for providing an inclusive environment for all our colleagues, ensuring all candidates have an equal opportunity to access meaningful employment. We value our differences such as age, gender, LGBTQIA, ethnicity, religion and disability. We maintain zero tolerance towards any form of prejudice towards our colleagues, customers, and future talent. We celebrate and encourage diversity of thought, progressive ways of working and seeing all our colleagues grow and thrive. We review all roles and job descriptions to ensure they are accessible and, where possible, we support and provide flexible working options; we recommend that you refer to each vacancy description for further details. If you require additional support to complete your application due to a disability or neurodivergent condition such as dyslexia, dyspraxia, or autism, please follow the links below. We encourage you to share any additional needs you may require so we can provide a fair and equal process for all who apply.
Engineering Tech Apprentice - East in Wokingham employer: Great Western Railway (GWR)
Contact Detail:
Great Western Railway (GWR) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Engineering Tech Apprentice - East in Wokingham
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know GWR and its values! Research the company culture and what they stand for. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Before your interview, run through common questions with a friend or family member. This will help you feel more confident and articulate when it’s your turn to shine.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to ask questions! When you get the chance, ask about the apprenticeship programme, team dynamics, or future opportunities. It shows you're engaged and keen to learn more about your potential role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the apprenticeship and what we’re looking for.
We think you need these skills to ace Engineering Tech Apprentice - East in Wokingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm for engineering and your unique experiences.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Engineering Tech Apprentice role. We love seeing candidates who understand what we do and how they can contribute!
Check Your Details: Before hitting that submit button, double-check all your information. Typos or missing details can make a big difference, and we want to ensure your application stands out for the right reasons!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Great Western Railway (GWR)
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, brush up on your electrical engineering basics. Familiarise yourself with key concepts related to depot infrastructure and the systems you'll be working with. This will show your enthusiasm and readiness to learn.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
GWR values teamwork, so be prepared to discuss examples of how you've worked well in a team before. Think of specific situations where you contributed to a group project or helped a teammate out. This will highlight your communication skills and collaborative nature.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare a few thoughtful questions about the apprenticeship programme and GWR's future plans. This shows you're genuinely interested in the role and the company. For instance, ask about opportunities for progression or what a typical day looks like for an Engineering Tech Apprentice.
✨Be Yourself
GWR wants you to be your unique self, so don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. Share your passion for engineering and your eagerness to learn. Authenticity can make a lasting impression on your interviewers.