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- Tasks: Join Howdens as an Engineering Apprentice and learn essential engineering skills.
- Company: Howdens, a top FTSE 100 company with a vibrant culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, excellent pension, free lunch, and 25 days holiday.
- Why this job: Kickstart your engineering career with real progression and support.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs at Grade 5 or equivalent, including Maths and Science.
- Other info: Join a community of over 600 apprentices and enjoy exceptional training.
The predicted salary is between 800 - 1400 £ per month.
Are you interested in joining Howdens, a FTSE 100 company, and voted in the Top 100 Best Large Company Employers, as an Engineering Apprentice? Howdens can offer you a fantastic opportunity to develop a rewarding career, with great earning potential where you will learn and develop new skills based at our manufacturing site in Runcorn, Cheshire, starting from September 2026.
We are looking for ambitious and motivated individuals who can demonstrate the potential to become an integral part of our business as an Engineer. Our culture is fast paced and entrepreneurial and as a Howdens employee there is an opportunity for real career progression and excellent benefits. We have a successful track record of developing our people through the Howdens apprenticeship scheme where you will gain recognised skills and qualifications and be fully supported through mentoring and training.
The apprenticeship:
- Beginning 2026
- This is a 4-year apprenticeship where you will be based at our training provider, Riverside College, and will be based full time at the college during the first year of your apprenticeship.
- Year 1 - You will learn the basics of engineering and will complete practical and theoretical training in mechanical, electrical and fluid power maintenance, the use of hand tools, CAD and general machining.
- Year 2 – You will attend college on a day release basis continuing your underpinning knowledge alongside working at our manufacturing site in Runcorn where you will have the opportunity to work with key equipment and undertake practical learning across the site.
- Year 3 - You will attend college on a day release basis and will continue your onsite training whilst working towards completing your qualifications and L3 Apprenticeship end point assessment.
- Year 4 – On completion of your apprenticeship and end point assessment, you will gain a Level 3 Engineering Technician qualification in Mechatronics and complete year 1 of your HNC.
What we’re looking for:
- 5 predicted or achieved GCSE Grade 5 (or equivalent) which must include Maths, English, Science & Technology.
- Confident communication and natural problem-solving skills.
- A willingness to learn and develop your skills and knowledge.
What we can offer you:
- Competitive apprenticeship salary.
- A permanent role with Howdens upon successful completion of the apprenticeship.
- Excellent pension scheme (company contribution of up to 12%).
- Exceptional training and development programme.
- Apprentice community of over 600 apprentices across the UK and graduation ceremony on completion of programme.
- 25 days holiday + bank holidays with the option to buy additional days.
- Free daily lunch at our onsite restaurant and free onsite parking.
- Exceptional reward and recognition events.
Application and Assessment Process:
Your application will be reviewed carefully, and all applicants will receive a response. If you are shortlisted, a member of our recruitment team will contact you to discuss the next steps. The hiring process includes an online Maths and English assessment at Riverside College, an onsite interview, and if successful, attendance at an assessment event at Riverside College on Wednesday 27th May 2026. Good luck with your application.
About Howdens:
Howdens Joinery is the UK’s number one trade kitchen supplier providing thousands of products across kitchens, joinery, and hardware. We have over 800 depots throughout the UK and Europe – making us the first choice for more than 460,000 loyal trade professionals. Last year our sales reached circa 2.3bn, and we have an ambitious growth agenda. Howdens is founded on the principle of being Worthwhile for ALL concerned. We’re working hard to ensure we provide an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. We will do everything we can to support you during your application. If you need us to make any adjustments to our recruitment process, please email recruitmentteam@howdens.com with the job title and location, and we will be happy to help you.
Engineering Apprentice in Runcorn employer: Howdens Joinery Co.
Contact Detail:
Howdens Joinery Co. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Engineering Apprentice in Runcorn
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Howdens! Research the company culture, values, 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! Brush up on your Maths and English skills before the assessments. Use online resources or study groups to get comfortable with the types of questions you might face.
✨Tip Number 3
Be yourself during the interview! Show off your problem-solving skills and willingness to learn. Remember, they’re looking for motivated individuals who can grow within the company, so let your passion shine through.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and serious about landing that apprenticeship with Howdens.
We think you need these skills to ace Engineering Apprentice in Runcorn
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let us see your enthusiasm for engineering! Share why you want to join Howdens and what excites you about the apprenticeship. A bit of personality goes a long way!
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Engineering Apprentice role. Highlight any relevant skills or experiences, even if they’re from school projects or hobbies. We want to see how you fit into our fast-paced culture!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use simple language and avoid jargon. We appreciate straightforward communication, so make it easy for us to understand your qualifications and motivations.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our company there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Howdens Joinery Co.
✨Know Your Engineering Basics
Before the interview, brush up on your engineering fundamentals. Understand key concepts related to mechanical, electrical, and fluid power maintenance, as these will likely come up in conversation. Showing that you have a solid grasp of the basics will impress the interviewers.
✨Show Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to discuss examples of how you've tackled challenges in the past. Whether it's a school project or a personal endeavour, demonstrating your problem-solving abilities will highlight your potential as an engineer. Think of specific instances where you identified a problem and successfully resolved it.
✨Communicate Confidently
Practice your communication skills before the interview. Being able to articulate your thoughts clearly is crucial, especially in a fast-paced environment like Howdens. Consider doing mock interviews with friends or family to build your confidence and refine your responses.
✨Express Your Willingness to Learn
Howdens values individuals who are eager to learn and grow. Be prepared to discuss your enthusiasm for the apprenticeship and how you plan to develop your skills over the four years. Highlight any relevant experiences that showcase your commitment to continuous learning.
