At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to learn and work on street lighting projects while gaining hands-on experience.
- Company: VolkerHighways, a leader in highways and street lighting maintenance.
- Benefits: Earn up to £10 p/h, enjoy 23 days paid leave, and receive training support.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and opportunities for progression in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in construction with a nationally recognised apprenticeship qualification.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just bring your motivation and willingness to learn.
Highway Electrical Apprenticeship - Level 2
Location: Oxfordshire
Contract: Full-time, 45 hours per week
Salary: Up to £10 p/h plus Benefits (first year)
Start: October 2026 (college programme begins October 2026)
Application closing date: Friday 17th 2026
About us
VolkerHighways is a leader in the delivery of highways and street lighting term maintenance contracts for local authorities. We deliver public realm infrastructure projects and are independent specialist traffic management contractors.
About the role
This is the ideal opportunity if you are looking for your first role in the construction industry. We're looking to strengthen our business by recruiting an early careers cohort in 2026 and have an exciting opportunity for a number of apprentice electricians to join our project teams across the south of the UK. This full-time role combines on-the-job learning with formal training, working towards a nationally recognised Level 2 Highways Electrical Apprenticeship. Attendance at college will be required in blocks of at least a week with overnight accommodation provided.
You'll join an operational project team and develop practical skills through a mix of real site experience and structured training. Apprenticeships combine work with study, including paid time during your working hours for training and learning. No previous electrical experience is required - full training and support will be provided.
What you'll be doing
- Working alongside experienced operatives to support project operational activities such as Fault diagnosis and repairs
- Electrical testing and commissioning on new and existing installations
- Installation of street lighting columns, signs, and bollards
- Learning to carry out work safely and to required standards
- Using tools, plant, and equipment safely (with training and authorisation)
- Attending training blocks and applying learning on site
- Following health, safety, environmental, and wellbeing procedures
- Maintaining a clean, tidy, and safe work environment
- Reporting hazards, near misses, and unsafe conditions
- Always representing VolkerHighways professionally
About you
We're looking for someone reliable, motivated and keen to learn, who enjoys practical, physical, outdoor work and working as part of a team.
You'll need:
- An interest in electrical work and outdoor environments
- A positive attitude, good timekeeping, and strong safety awareness
- A flexible approach to working hours (including early starts, night work, weekends, and shifts where required)
- Commitment to completing training and attending college as scheduled
- Willingness to obtain a CSCS card (if not already held)
- A willingness to work towards a full UK driving licence during the apprenticeship (not required at application stage but essential for future operational duties)
Why work for us?
Be part of VolkerWessels UK, a leading multidisciplinary engineering and construction group delivering across rail, highways, aviation, marine, energy, water, and environmental sectors.
With this Apprenticeship, you'll get:
- Permanently employment with structured training and development
- Nationally recognised Level 2 apprenticeship qualification (GCSE equivalent)
- Hands-on experience with mentoring and clear progression opportunities
- Company benefits package including pension, retail discounts and 23 days paid annual leave.
Fairness, inclusion and respect
We believe in pushing boundaries in the pursuit of fairness, inclusion and respect. So, our teams can be comfortable that, whatever their background, VolkerWessels UK is a place where they can be themselves and thrive.
If you need support with your application, please contact us at
Additional information
Note for Recruitment Agencies: Our preference is to hire directly, and we will reach out to our Preferred Supplier List (PSL) agencies if this particular role qualifies for release. We kindly request that you refrain from sending speculative CVs. In the event of speculative CV submissions, no fees will be applicable, and we kindly ask that all inquiries to be directed to
VolkerWessels UK is committed to maintaining healthy, safe and productive working conditions for its entire staff and therefore a drugs & alcohol screening is mandatory for all.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Apprentice Street Lighting Electrical Operative in Abingdon
✨Get Hands-On Experience
Since you're aiming for an apprenticeship in construction, try to get some practical experience under your belt. Volunteer for local building projects or shadow experienced tradespeople. This not only boosts your skills but is also a great way to make connections in the industry.
✨Join Local Construction Groups
Look for local construction associations or community workshops. These groups often have info sessions and networking events that are perfect for meeting industry pros. Plus, they can provide valuable insights into what employers, like VolkerWessels UK Ltd, are looking for in apprentices.
✨Tap into Trade Schools and Colleges
If you’re studying at a trade school or college, make sure to keep in touch with your instructors—they have industry connections and might know of openings at places like VolkerWessels UK Ltd. Many schools also host job fairs specifically for apprenticeships, so keep an eye on those events!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Finally, don’t forget that you can apply directly through our website for your apprenticeship. It’s a straightforward way to get your foot in the door at VolkerWessels UK Ltd and show we value those who take initiative. No need to be shy—get your application in!
We think you need these skills to ace Apprentice Street Lighting Electrical Operative in Abingdon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Hands-On Skills:When applying for an apprenticeship in construction, it’s crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have. This could include DIY projects, volunteering for community builds, or relevant school subjects like design and technology. We want to see what you've done with your hands as well as your brain!
Tailor Your CV for Construction:Your CV should reflect your enthusiasm for the construction industry. Include any relevant coursework, certifications, or projects that relate to construction. Don't forget to also mention any safety training or equipment handling experience, as it shows you're serious about working safely on-site.
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:In your cover letter, let your passion for construction shine through! Share why you’re excited about this particular apprenticeship at VolkerWessels UK Ltd and what you hope to learn. This is your chance to show us your motivation and commitment to the industry, so make it personal.
Include References and Contacts:As you're applying for an apprenticeship, it can be really helpful to include references from teachers, mentors, or anyone who's supervised your work. If you’ve worked on projects in school or during work experience, mention who oversaw those and how they can vouch for your skills. This adds that extra layer of credibility to your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at VolkerWessels UK Ltd
✨Know Your Tools
Familiarise yourself with the common tools and equipment used in construction, like power tools and safety gear. Being able to name them and explain their uses can really impress the interviewers at VolkerWessels UK Ltd!
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect technical questions that'll test your understanding of construction principles. Brush up on basic concepts like measurements, materials, and safety regulations. They might even throw in scenarios to assess your problem-solving skills.
✨Show Your Willingness to Learn
As this is an apprenticeship, we want to show that we’re not just looking for a job but are eager to learn the trade. Talk about what aspects of construction excite you and how you hope to grow in the field.
✨Bring Your Own Experience
Even if you don’t have formal experience, think of any DIY projects or part-time jobs that showcase your hands-on skills. Share these stories to show you're practical and willing to get stuck in at VolkerWessels UK Ltd.
