Clock Maker (Apprentice)

We are excited to offer the Clock Maker (Apprentice) role within the Parliamentary Maintenance Services Team (PMST) as part of our Speaker's Apprenticeship Academy. The Academy supports early‑career talent and helps widen opportunities within the House Service.

You’ll gain valuable experience working in UK Parliament, at the heart of British democracy, while developing skills in a unique and fast‑paced environment. No politics expertise is required. Applicants should be early in their careers and not in full‑time education. You must be aged 18 or over by the end of the summer holidays.

As a Clock Maker Apprentice you will support the Parliamentary Clock Mechanics team in maintaining and servicing clocks across the Parliamentary Estate, including the iconic Great Clock (Big Ben). This is a hands‑on, entry‑level role where you work toward a Level 3 Apprenticeship in Clockmaking while gaining practical experience in a historic environment. Responsibilities include routine servicing, learning specialist repair techniques, and supporting the team during key operational activities.

Key working conditions:

• High flexibility – you will work shifts and adjust your hours to support operational needs, including time changes, major national events such as Remembrance Sunday and New Year’s Eve, and some Bank Holidays.
• Standard pattern on‑site Monday to Friday, 7:00am to 3:00pm (2:00pm on Fridays). You must be willing and able to vary your hours when required.
• Fixed‑term role, 2 years, with the potential to progress into a permanent position upon successful completion of the apprenticeship.

Why Join us?

• Generous annual leave starting at 30 days and increasing to 35 after one full working year.
• Enrolment in the Civil Service pension scheme with an average employer contribution of 27%.
• Flexible working options to help you find a balance, including enhanced maternity, paternity, shared parental and adoption leave, caring leave and alternative working patterns.
• Full training, mentoring and structured development to build your skills and confidence throughout the apprenticeship.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• At least 18 years of age and not already holding the same or similar Level 3 apprenticeship qualification.
• No degree requirement; a degree in an unrelated subject is acceptable. A degree or qualification in a similar subject may make you ineligible – contact the Apprenticeships Team if unsure.
• Ability to pass Level 2 Functional Skills exams in English and Maths (or already hold grade C/4 or above) if you are a learner aged 18.
• Curiosity and interest in mechanical clocks, especially those with unique heritage.
• Interest in practical making, repairing or problem‑solving activities.
• Basic understanding of health and safety requirements.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, and the ability to build positive working relationships with openness, respect and sensitivity to diverse backgrounds.
• Capability to organise workload effectively, complete tasks on time, handle routine duties independently and use initiative when appropriate.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion:

We support an inclusive environment and encourage applications from people from all backgrounds. All applicants are considered equally, with a focus on potential and ability.