At a Glance
- Tasks: Join ScotRail as an Engineering Apprentice and maintain diesel and electric trains.
- Company: ScotRail, a leading employer in Scottish rail travel with over 5,000 employees.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £23,006 with annual increases and hands-on training.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with opportunities for career progression.
- Why this job: Shape the future of rail travel while gaining valuable skills and qualifications.
- Qualifications: Open to ages 17-24; SCQF Level 5 in Maths, English, and either Physics or Chemistry required.
The predicted salary is between 23006 - 26349 £ per year.
Apprenticeship – Engineering Maintenance (Multi-Skilled)
Duration: 4 years
Salary: Starting salary - £23006 per annum
Upon completion of Year 1 - salary increase £23433 per annum
Upon completion of Year 2 - salary increase £24485 per annum
Upon completion of Year 3 - salary increase £26349 per annum
Start Date: August 2026
Build a career to be proud of with a ScotRail Modern Apprenticeship. With more than 5,000 employees, ScotRail plays a vital role in serving the people and communities of Scotland. We recognise a modern and diverse workforce, encouraged to use their talents, and develop their skills, is integral to our success in serving and reflecting the communities of Scotland. We are committed to being a diverse and inclusive employer and have also set ourselves ambitious sustainability targets including having a carbon-free railway in Scotland by 2035.
The Opportunity
ScotRail is looking for motivated apprentices to join our engineering teams and play a key role in shaping the future of Scottish rail travel. With four Maintenance Depots located across Scotland, you will be involved in maintaining both diesel and electric trains, ensuring they remain fully operational and deliver a reliable service to our customers. As an apprentice, you will have the opportunity to learn from industry experts and gain hands-on experience within a supportive environment.
Your day-to-day activities will include learning to maintain and repair ScotRail’s fleet of vehicles - working on everything from fault finding and brake repairs to inspecting lights, seats, heating systems, and mechanical components. You will also test electrical systems, check for wear and tear on bodywork and under-carriages, and perform regular checks on critical systems such as brakes and couplings. This apprenticeship offers you the chance to develop a wide range of skills, contributing to the maintenance of trains while working towards a rewarding career in the rail industry.
The Person
To follow health and safety requirements and regulations and funding criteria, this apprenticeship is open to people aged 17 to 24 and people up to age 29 who identify as having a disability or who are care experienced. Whether you are coming straight from school, further education or are already in employment, we would love to hear from you.
As a minimum, applicants should hold qualifications at SCQF Level 5 (or above) in Maths (excluding Applications of Maths), English, and either Physics or Chemistry. Applicants who do not meet all of the above qualifications may also demonstrate suitability through other relevant experience, such as a Foundation Apprenticeship in Engineering or National Qualifications in a related engineering discipline.
You must be able to travel to and from college. After completing your first year at college, you will be required to work a shift pattern that includes night shifts.
Candidates should have:
- A willingness to learn.
- A willingness to complete a 4-year apprenticeship.
- A willingness to attend regular reviews to discuss your progress and development.
- A willingness to attend internal training (and external training if required) and taking responsibility, with support, to collect the evidence required for your SVQ Portfolio.
What can you expect from your apprenticeship?
You will progress through a Modern Apprenticeship in Engineering over a 4-year programme. Your time will be divided between attending college and gaining real life workplace experience with ScotRail. As well as gaining a broad range of technical and professional knowledge and experience, you will also gain academic and vocational qualifications such as: SVQ Level 2 Performing Engineering Operations (PEO2). You also may have the opportunity to progress onto an HNC.
Please note that due to the volume of interest received these vacancies could close prior to the published date.
Selection Process
Candidates short-listed will be invited to attend a selection interview. All offers are subject to passing our pre-employment checks which include a criminal record check, medical and referencing.
ScotRail is six times accredited as a Top Employer, has achieved Leaders in Diversity and is a Disability Confident Employer. We value, celebrate, and respect the diversity our people and aim to inspire, attract, retain, and develop the best talent. Because we value diversity and the benefits it brings, we want to continue improving the diversity of our people and particularly welcome applications from women, young people, LGBT+ people, people with a disability, and people from ethnically diverse backgrounds.
Engineering Apprentice in Inverness employer: ScotRail
ScotRail is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment that values diversity and encourages personal and professional growth. As a Customer Service Administrator at our Paisley Customer Service Centre, you will benefit from generous perks such as free rail travel for you and your family, a robust pension scheme, and a variety of lifestyle benefits, all while playing a crucial role in ensuring the safety and satisfaction of our customers. Join us in making a difference in the communities of Scotland, where your contributions are recognised and celebrated.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Engineering Apprentice in Inverness
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Engineering Apprentice role you’re after at ScotRail.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at ScotRail a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at ScotRail.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Engineering Apprentice at ScotRail, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Engineering Apprentice in Inverness
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Engineering Apprentice, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at ScotRail a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to ScotRail specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at ScotRail
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with ScotRail, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like ScotRail want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
