At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us to install and test innovative railway signalling systems.
- Company: VolkerRail, a leader in engineering solutions for the railway industry.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, training opportunities, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Exciting career progression with opportunities to become a Junior Engineer.
- Why this job: Be part of cutting-edge technology that keeps trains running safely and efficiently.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs at grade 9-5 including Maths, English, and Science.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
Signalling & Telecoms (S&T) provide cost-effective engineering solutions for railway signalling projects throughout the UK. As a team, we manage the full project life cycle and complete all aspects of design, project engineering, installation, testing, commissioning and maintenance support, across all signalling technologies, equipment and systems. We also provide design, supply, install and test services for operational and lineside telecommunication renewals, either as a single discipline provider or as part of a multidisciplinary project, to ensure end-to-end connectivity. We also offer these capabilities for station information and security systems.
To support the future development of our Railway Signalling business, VolkerRail is looking to recruit 2 people to undertake apprentice training. We are looking for people to complete a level 7 qualification leading to a ‘level 7 Electrical Engineering Modern Apprenticeship. The level 7 apprenticeship will take 4 years to complete. During this time you will:
- Receive training in Railway Signalling Competence and Knowledge
- Undertake work experience across all our Signalling Engineering disciplines
- Work at the cutting edge of innovative technology
- Have the opportunity to collaborate with highly skilled engineers to design and deliver high profile rail projects
What is on offer? VolkerRail is keen to recruit and train motivated, enthusiastic and talented people. We are looking for driven, personable and enthusiastic young people to join our Apprenticeship Schemes in our Signalling division. The successful candidates will have 5 Nationals / grade 9 - 5 including Maths, English and Science, possess an engineering aptitude and enjoy problem solving. You must be aged 18 on or before the 1st October 2026, this is to ensure that we are compliant with Health & Safety requirements and regulations around shift patterns and working at night for under 18s. There is no upper age limit for the programme.
We will pay the following salaries:
- Year 1- £22,500 (*Or National minimum wage whichever is the highest)
- Year 2- £24,500
- Year 3- £26,500
What is Signalling? Signalling is the system used by the railway to safely regulate the movement of trains around the country. This is achieved through the use of mechanical, electrical and electronic systems separating trains from other trains and trains from road users. The technology used to do this can range from mechanical lever frames to electronic PLC style control systems using mobile phone equivalent radio communications to allow signalling from inside the train cab.
What will you do during the apprenticeship?
You will be working at the forefront of innovative technology implementing complex signalling control systems to ensure that the UK travelling public are able to undertake their train journeys in the most efficient and safest way possible. You will help turn design concepts for railway signalling systems into reality, delivering complex engineering solutions to provide the highest satisfaction to our customers. During your apprenticeship you will gain work experience in the following areas:
- Design – Working with the teams who design the safety critical signalling system
- Installation – Working trackside with the teams who construct the new signalling systems
- Testing and commissioning – Working with the teams who independently test and commission the signalling system to ensure that it performs as it is designed
- Project Engineering – Working across design, installation and testing to ensure the signalling system can be built safely, and meets the customer requirements and standards
- Project Management – Working with the people who take responsibility for the safe, on time, and on budget delivery of the project from design through to the commissioning and handback of the scheme
About you: What are the prospects upon completion of the apprenticeship? We pride ourselves on the success of our Signalling Apprenticeships which have been running for the last five years. On completion of the scheme, all of our apprentices have been offered roles as Junior Engineers in the Design, Installation or Testing departments, with the majority of our Junior Engineers continuing onto Level 4 qualifications to further their progression. Our business offers lots of opportunities for talented individuals to explore different project roles that continue to deliver entire railway systems. We have had former apprentices go on to become project managers and project engineers after working their way through a junior engineering role.
What do I need to be to take advantage of this opportunity? Engineering is about using your science and maths to design and make things, in this case Signalling systems. Our world is a complex and challenging environment so the ability to solve problems is essential to being successful. Being able to communicate effectively with your teams and clients collaborating to safely deliver a scheme on time and to the satisfaction of the customer is crucial to the success of our business. An ability to ask questions to gain an understanding of what we do will help you stand out from the crowd as your career advances. A diligent logical and conscientious approach to your work in which you are accountable for delivering right first time. We deliver work in all 4 corners of Great Britain meaning a driving licence is vital in order to travel to our work sites. Our access opportunities to complete works during railway shut downs are limited, we therefore need a flexible workforce that are available to complete works during the available access opportunities. We work when others don’t, so you will be required to work weekends, night shifts and Bank Holidays. You will also be required to stay in hotels away from home for periods depending on where your allocated projects are. Individual commitment is crucial for the success and safe delivery of our projects for our clients, VolkerRail and you.
VolkerRail offers a competitive salary and attractive benefits that include pension, performance related pay, and other benefits commensurate to your skills and experience. We are committed to equality of opportunity and diversity.
Why work with us? VolkerRail is under the umbrella of VolkerWessels UK which is a multidisciplinary contractor that delivers innovative engineering solutions across the civil engineering and construction sectors including rail, highways, airport, marine, energy, water, and environmental infrastructure. By utilising the specialist skills of each business unit within VolkerWessels UK, VolkerRail are able to ensure our staff provide unrivalled resources and expertise to our clients. We offer competitive rewards and benefits, recognising the value we place on our employees. We offer a range of benefits, including:
- Competitive salary
- Competitive annual leave and an additional day off on your birthday
- Pension
- Life Assurance
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Shopping and restaurants vouchers, rewards, and discounts
- Training and development opportunities-comprehensive skills-based training
- Family friendly policies including enhanced maternity benefits
- Employee Assistance programme
- Mental health, physical health, and financial support
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 careers@volkerwessels.co.uk
Additional information: 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.
Signalling (Install & Test) Apprentices in Glasgow employer: VolkerWessels
VolkerWessels is an excellent employer for those looking to advance their careers in rail infrastructure, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises safety and quality. With flexible working hours and comprehensive training opportunities, employees can thrive in their roles while enjoying competitive salaries and generous benefits, including private healthcare. Located in Basingstoke, the company fosters a collaborative environment where project managers can lead impactful projects and grow professionally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Signalling (Install & Test) Apprentices in Glasgow
✨Get Hands-On at Local Workshops
Don’t miss out on local engineering workshops and hackathons! They’re a brilliant way to learn something new, meet fellow aspiring engineers, and often, company reps will be scouting for fresh talent. Plus, you can mention your hands-on experiences at these events during your interviews!
✨Join Engineering Societies and Clubs
Get involved with engineering societies at your school or in your area. These communities often host talks, networking events, and even competitions, which can open doors to apprenticeship opportunities. Plus, chatting with industry professionals is never a bad idea!
✨Show Off Your Passion Online
Consider starting a blog or a social media account where you can share your engineering projects, ideas, and learnings. This not only demonstrates your passion but also your initiative. Share the link on your application to really showcase who you are!
✨Don’t Wait, Apply Early!
Apprenticeships often have early application windows, so keep an eye on VolkerWessels’s website and get your applications in as soon as you can. The earlier you apply, the more likely you are to secure an interview and land that coveted position!
We think you need these skills to ace Signalling (Install & Test) Apprentices in Glasgow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for an engineering apprenticeship at VolkerWessels, make sure to highlight any relevant technical skills and subjects you've excelled in. Include specific projects or coursework that demonstrate your understanding of engineering principles—anything from physics projects to CAD designs can really make your application stand out!
Include Your Learning Experience:Since this is an apprenticeship, we want to see how keen you are to learn. In your cover letter, talk about what you hope to gain from this opportunity at VolkerWessels and how it aligns with your career goals. Don’t be shy—express your enthusiasm for getting hands-on experience!
Tailor Your CV for Engineering:Make sure your CV reflects your passion for engineering. List relevant coursework, skills, and any hands-on experiences like workshops or engineering clubs. Feel free to use a clear and structured layout so it's easy for the hiring team at VolkerWessels to see your qualifications at a glance.
Keep it Visual—If Possible!:If you've worked on any engineering projects, consider including visual elements in your application—like pictures, graphs or even a small portfolio link. This isn’t mandatory, but visuals can help us appreciate your work and problem-solving skills more effectively!
How to prepare for a job interview at VolkerWessels
✨Showcase Your Passion for Engineering
Since you're applying for an apprenticeship, it’s crucial to demonstrate your genuine enthusiasm for engineering. Be ready to talk about any projects you've done, be it in school or in your spare time, as this shows your commitment and eagerness to learn on the job at VolkerWessels.
✨Get Hands-On with Technical Questions
Expect some technical queries related to basic engineering principles. Brush up on subjects you’ve covered in your studies, such as materials science or thermodynamics. They might throw a scenario your way to gauge how you would approach solving a problem—don't be afraid to think aloud!
✨Demonstrate Your Teamwork Skills
Apprenticeships often require working in teams, so be prepared to discuss how you've worked with others in school or during any group projects. Share specific examples that reflect your ability to collaborate and communicate effectively, as this is highly valued in engineering roles at VolkerWessels.
✨Ask About Learning Opportunities
Make sure to prepare some questions about the apprenticeship itself, like how training will be structured or the types of projects you'll tackle. Showing curiosity about your growth will impress the interviewers at VolkerWessels, demonstrating that you're ready to dive into the learning experience.
