At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as an Apprentice Gas Engineer, learning to install and maintain plumbing systems.
- Company: Mears Group, a leader in housing and care services with a strong community focus.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn with competitive pay, tools provided, and 25 days annual leave.
- Other info: Enjoy fun company events, driving lesson contributions, and discounts on everyday expenses.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in a rewarding role that makes a real difference in people's lives.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and maths at grade 4 or above; a passion for learning is essential.
The predicted salary is between 8 - 8 £ per hour.
Hourly rate: £12.71
Course title: Building Services Engineering – Plumbing and Heating
Location: Caerphilly
Contract Type: Fixed Term Apprenticeship
Salary:
- Age 16–18: £8.00 per hour — 40 hours per week (including time at college)
- Age 19–20: £11.06 per hour — 42.5 hours per week (including time at college)
- Age 21+: £12.71 per hour — 42.5 hours per week (including time at college)
Training provider: Coleg Y Cymoedd
You will join Mears Group in the week commencing 03/08/2026, and your apprenticeship course will begin in the week commencing 21/09/2026. The programme has an expected duration of approximately 48 months.
Celtic Horizons is a partnership between United Welsh Group and Mears Group PLC, delivering repairs, maintenance and improvement services to over 6,800 homes across South Wales. The work we do helps keep homes safe, well maintained and in good condition for the people who live in them. Every day our teams are out in the community delivering a range of repairs, maintenance and planned improvement works across local housing.
About apprenticeships at Mears Group:
Apprenticeships are an underpinning part of Mears’ philosophy; we are committed to developing the next generation of our workforce, many of our most senior people started their working life as an apprentice. Whether you are fresh out of school or college or looking for a complete career change, Mears can offer you a great foundation to your future career and beyond. All our Apprentices are paid above the national minimum wage, and you’ll be paid for your normal working hours plus your attendance at college, with the opportunity to get real life experiences such as working in people’s homes, getting involved in community projects and improving people’s lives by being customer focused.
What does a life as a Gas Engineer look like?
As a Gas Engineer you will be assisting with the installation, maintenance and repair of plumbing systems, learning to diagnose and resolve faults. You will be able to provide our customers with products and services that help them have peace of mind by assisting them to understand how their appliances work and how to manage their energy usage efficiently.
The apprenticeship course will cover the following:
- Health and safety legislation, codes of practice and safe working practices
- Understand selection, planning, installation, testing, commissioning and de-commissioning, service, maintenance, fault diagnosis and repair techniques on cold water, hot water, central heating, above ground drainage and rainwater systems
- Understand installation and testing techniques for electrical components and control systems on plumbing and domestic heating systems
- Understand the principles of domestic mechanical environmental technology systems
- Understand the principles of fuel combustion, ventilation and fluing arrangements within a domestic environment
- Understand the principles of high‑quality customer service and establishing the needs of others (colleagues, customers and other stakeholders). Respect the working environment including customer’s properties
- Understand different communication methods, how to communicate in a clear, articulate and appropriate manner and how to adapt communication style to suit different situations
What do you need to be a successful applicant:
- GCSEs in English and maths at grade 4 or above
- You will need to live within the MK postcode
- The ability to travel to your college provider and to your branch when required
- A genuine desire to learn and develop strong technical knowledge, including the skills, technology, and safety procedures needed to carry out the full range of tasks
- Strong communication skills
- Ability to build and maintain positive customer and client relationships
Please note due to the nature of the role, successful applicants must complete a basic maths and English assessment.
What you will get:
- Tools, Chromebook, and uniform supplied
- An industry‑recognised qualification
- 25 days’ annual leave, plus bank holidays
- £250 contribution towards driving lessons
- Annual Mears Fun Day – a company‑wide celebration as a thank‑you from the Executive Team
- Support from Mears Group Apprentice Ambassadors
- Apprenticeship events and reward trips
- Staff perks through Mears Rewards – including discounts on weekly groceries (up to 10%), holidays, eye‑test vouchers, ShareSave scheme, and more
Application Process:
All applicants must submit their CV and complete the apprenticeship questionnaire via the Mears Careers website. If shortlisted, you will be contacted to confirm whether you have been selected for the next stage – this may be an assessment centre or an individual interview. Please note: as part of the selection process, you will be required to complete a basic maths and English test, similar to the assessments needed to join the college.
A bit about us:
Mears Group PLC is a leading provider of housing and care services in the UK. With a strong emphasis on social responsibility and community well-being, Mears specialises in delivering housing solutions, maintenance services, and care support to a diverse client base. The group’s expertise encompasses responsive repairs, planned maintenance, and housing management, contributing to the overall improvement of living conditions for individuals and communities. Mears Group is committed to fostering a positive impact on society, making it an attractive prospect for individuals seeking a career in a socially responsible and dynamic organisation. A career with Mears Group means putting people and customers at the heart of what you do, every day. Our culture is built on what we call our ‘Red Thread’ – the common values we share that make us what we are.
All our roles require candidates to have the entitlement to work within the UK. Mears does not currently offer visa sponsorship. Candidates should be aware that all our roles are subject to relevant Background, Identity & Security checks before commencement of employment.
Required Qualifications: Secondary School
We proudly support the Armed Forces Covenant and are honoured to have achieved the Gold Award in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) to coincide with this, we hold an Endorser Award for the Career Transition Partnership, recognising our commitment to veterans transitioning into civilian careers.
In our continued effort to promote social mobility, we invite applicants to voluntarily share their background information during the application stages to help us better understand the diverse experiences of our candidates. This is to ensure we are committed to improving social mobility. We use the Social Mobility Index to assess and enhance opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds. These questions are optional and will not impact your ability to apply.
We are a Disability Confident employer and are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.
Apprentice Gas Engineer employer: Mears Group
Mears Group is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises safety and compliance in the field. With generous benefits such as a company van, fuel card, and 25 days of annual leave plus bank holidays, employees are encouraged to maintain a healthy work-life balance while growing their skills in a dynamic environment across Northeast England.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Apprentice Gas Engineer
✨Get Hands-On with Local Building Projects
Look for community projects or local companies in the building systems supply engineering sector that often host open days or apprenticeships. Getting involved with these projects gives you valuable experience and helps you build connections with industry professionals who might just remember your name when an opportunity arises!
✨Join Relevant Engineering Forums and Groups
Dive into online forums or local groups focused on engineering and building systems supply. These are great places to connect with like-minded individuals, share advice, and even hear about apprenticeship openings. Don't be shy—ask questions and share your enthusiasm!
✨Show Off Your Skills with a Small Project
Create a mini project showcasing your understanding of building systems—think DIY projects or even a simple design concept. This can be shared on platforms like GitHub or Engineering-specific sites. It not only demonstrates your skills but also helps you stand out as a proactive candidate!
✨Use Our Website to Apply Directly
When you're ready to apply for apprenticeships, check out our website for listings. Applying directly through us not only makes your application stand out but also connects you directly with Mears Group. Don't miss out on the chance to showcase your passion for building systems supply engineering!
We think you need these skills to ace Apprentice Gas Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show off your technical skills:Since you’re diving into building systems supply engineering, make sure your CV highlights any relevant projects or technical skills you've picked up, whether through schoolwork or side projects. If you've done hands-on work with tools or tech related to building systems, don’t hold back – we want to see it!
Include relevant coursework and certifications:If you've taken any specific courses related to engineering, like CAD or construction management, be sure to mention them. And if you have any certifications, even better! They show us you’re serious about your career in this field and ready to learn in an apprenticeship.
Let your passion shine in your cover letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you’re excited about the apprenticeship with Mears Group. Share what aspects of building systems supply engineering interest you, and how you’re eager to learn and grow in this role. Show us your enthusiasm and drive!
Keep it structured and clear:Make sure your application is easy to read. Use headings, bullet points, and a clean layout so we can quickly spot your most important information. We want to see your potential, so let’s make it easy for us to get to know you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mears Group
✨Know Your Basics of Building Systems
As an aspiring apprentice in building systems supply engineering, make sure you’re familiar with the fundamental concepts and terminologies in building systems. Brush up on key systems like HVAC, plumbing, and electrical supply to show your enthusiasm and readiness to learn in your interview with Mears Group.
✨Showcase Your Practical Skills
Prepare to discuss any hands-on projects or practical experiences you’ve had related to building systems. Whether it’s a school project, a DIY task, or even volunteering, having clear examples will demonstrate your hands-on skills and commitment to the trade, which are vital for an apprenticeship position.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Expect some specific technical questions that assess your understanding of systems and installation processes. Review common scenarios you might face on the job and think about solutions, so you can confidently respond to queries during your interview with Mears Group.
✨Express Your Eagerness to Learn
As this is an apprenticeship, highlight your willingness to absorb knowledge and benefit from experienced professionals. Talk about what you admire in the industry, and why you believe starting at an apprenticeship level is the best pathway for you to grow in the building systems field at Mears Group.
