Highways Maintenance Skilled Operative Apprentice - London

Here at Marlborough, we are excited to announce the launch of our 2026 Operational Apprenticeship Programme. We are looking for enthusiastic and committed individuals to join our growing organisation as Highways Maintenance Skilled Operatives. Highways Maintenance Skilled Operatives work on rural and urban roads to repair damaged surfaces, using hand and power tools and pedestrian plant machinery. They work as part of a team carrying out the repairs and individually, when preparing the area for repair. Skilled Operatives must also be able to interpret and work to drawings and specifications when carrying out repairs to the highway.

A Highways Maintenance Skilled Operative will undertake reactive and planned rural and urban roads maintenance and repair. With all our apprenticeship roles paying a minimum of Living Wage, this is a fantastic opportunity for someone looking to start or build on their career within the highways industry.

What does an apprenticeship with Marlborough look like?

• Duration: This apprenticeship is an 18-month programme, which consists of block release to an external training provider and is fully funded by Marlborough Highways.
• Off-the-job training: As part of the apprenticeship, you will complete (on average) 6 hours per week off-the-job training, which will be supported by Marlborough Highways and the training provider. In-house training and development opportunities are also available to support with the off-the-job hours.
• End Point Assessment: On completion of the apprenticeship training, you will complete the End Point Assessment (EPA). This is the final assessment in the apprenticeship of your knowledge, skills, and behaviours learned throughout the apprenticeship. The EPA comprises a knowledge test, practical assessment & a professional discussion, carried out by an external assessor. Passing the EPA confirms that you are occupationally competent and completes the apprenticeship programme.

What will you do?

• Excavate and reinstate the highway by carrying out maintenance and repairs, including removal of material within the road or roadside using hand or power tools.
• Read, interpret, and work to drawings, specifications, and highways information.
• Understand and demonstrate the Marlborough Highways way of working, ensuring that the processes are complied with.
• Prepare and operate powered tools or pedestrian plant, machinery, or equipment (rollers, mixers, and compressors).
• Understand the principles of maintenance and repair within the civil engineering and highways sector.
• Comply with all quality, health, and safety policies.
• Always represent the business in a professional manner.

Who are we looking for?

• GCSEs Grade C or above, in Maths and English.
• Previous experience within the construction industry is desirable, but not essential.
• Ability to produce work accurately and to deadlines.
• Enthusiastic, committed, and flexible around hours and overtime when required.
• Good organisational and communication skills.
• Commitment to undertaking academic study and progression of professional accreditation.
• Good understanding of health and safety and its impact on the workplace.
• Ability to work safely and productively within a team.
• Communication skills, both verbal and written.

If you haven’t achieved GCSE in English and Maths at Grade 4/Grade C you will be supported to achieve this as part of the apprenticeship programme.

Our Values and Behaviours

• We know people matter: We respect, care, and invest in our people, the communities in which we work and our common future. We are open. We are honest. We are fair.
• Pride: We take pride in everything we do. We speak positively. Deliver quality. Act safely. Always.
• Spirit: We have spirit. We promote a positive atmosphere and energy. We are inclusive. We have brilliant team working and friendships. Driving success so we all win.
• Bold: We are bold. We are confident, optimistic and trust in our ability. We look forward and are excited about our progressive future.

Marlborough Highways is an equal opportunities employer that celebrates difference. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives and skills. We promote a culture of respect and fairness for all employees and are committed to providing equal access to employment opportunities for everyone. If you feel you could benefit from any adjustments or accommodations during the recruitment process, please let us know and we will be happy to support you.