Summary
Start an exciting career with our 3-year Rail Engineering Technician Apprenticeship and you’ll help shape national projects, embrace the latest tech, and get hands-on with our railway network. Working alongside some of our most experienced engineers.
Wage
£21,477 a year
Training course
Engineering technician (level 3)
Hours
Our railway runs 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. This means that it is likely that you will follow a shift pattern that will mean working nights and/or weekends and there will be times where you need to stay away from home for training.
35 hours a week
Start date
Tuesday 10 November 2026
Duration
3 years
Positions available
5
Work
Most of your apprenticeship is spent working. You’ll learn on the job by getting hands-on experience.
What you'll do at work
* Work alongside experienced engineers in depots across the UK and learn what goes into keeping thousands of miles of power lines and tracks running and fit for us. As part of our team, you’ll help shape national projects, embrace the latest technology and develop the skills you need to succeed
* Each of our apprentices will specialise in a pathway relevant to the depot they’re based at. The pathways are Track, Signalling, Telecommunications, Overhead Lines, Locking Fitter, and Distribution and Plant. These disciplines will see you getting hands-on and repairing our tracks, working with high voltage systems, heights and specialist tools, repairing major signalling failures, supporting our telecommunications systems, or keeping our power flowing safely and efficiently
* Please note that your discipline will be allocated to you according to your geography and what the need is at your local depot
Where you'll work
You can select which locations you want to apply for in your application on Find an apprenticeship.
This apprenticeship is available in these locations:
* Brighton, BN1 3TU
* Bristol, BS5 9TX
* Broxbourne, EN10 7AW
* Cambridge, Cambridge, CB1 7ED
* Cardiff, CF11 8HP
* Carlisle, CA1 2NP
* Cheshunt, Cheshunt, EN8 9AQ
* Chester, Chester, CH2 3DJ
* Colchester, CO1 1XD
Training
Apprenticeships include time away from working for specialist training. You’ll study to gain professional knowledge and skills.
Training provider
NETWORK RAIL INFRASTRUCTURE LIMITED
Training course
Engineering technician (level 3)
What you'll learn
Course contents
* obtaining, checking and using the appropriate documentation (such as job instructions, drawings, quality control documentation)
* working safely at all times, complying with health, safety and environmental legislation, regulations and organisational requirements planning and where applicable obtaining all the resources required to undertake the work activity
* undertaking the work activity using the correct processes, procedures and equipment
* carrying out the required checks (such as quality, compliance or testing) using the correct procedures, processes and/or equipment
* dealing promptly and effectively with engineering/manufacturing problems within the limits of their responsibility using approved diagnostic methods and techniques and report those which cannot be resolved to the appropriate personnel
* completing any required documentation using the defined recording systems at the appropriate stages of the work activity
* restoring the work area on completion of the activity and where applicable return any resources and consumables to the appropriate location
* read and interpret relevant data and documentation used to manufacture aerospace components/systems
* assemble and disassemble aerospace mechanical components, sub-assemblies and whole systems (new and in service) as required measure and mark out of materials to carry out precision machining and hand fitting processes
* precision drilling and finishing of holes in aircraft assemblies use mechanical and or electrical/electronic measuring and or test equipment used on aircraft assemblies and systems
* apply assembly techniques (such as mechanical fasteners, welding and bonding techniques)
* use sealing and jointing techniques: use of seals, gaskets, and jointing materials contribute to the business by identifying possible opportunities for improving working practices, processes and/or procedures
* assemble, disassemble and install aerospace components, sub-assemblies and whole systems (new and in service) as required such as wiring looms, anti-icing systems, electrical connectors, avionic units and using specified methods and procedures
* set up and use a range of measuring, testing, diagnostic tools, rigs and equipment, using approved methods and procedures install lighting, power supplies, engine control and instrumentation systems
* carry out testing and diagnostic activities on installed components, equipment and systems and making adjustment/rectification where applicable
* carry out precision drilling and finishing of holes in aerospace assemblies apply correct locking and securing methods and techniques (mechanical fasteners, locking and electrical bonding techniques)
* use sealing and jointing techniques: use of seals, gaskets, and jointing materials install and connect pipe-work systems and aerospace assemblies
* contribute to the business by identifying possible opportunities for improving working practices, processes and/or procedures
* read and interpret relevant data and documentation used to maintain aircraft components and systems
* select and use the correct hand and mechanical tools and equipment while carrying out maintenance of aircraft apply human factors in aviation – attitudes and behaviours to ensure aviation safety
* use mechanical and electrical measuring and or test equipment while carrying out aircraft maintenance activities
* carry out aircraft functional checks and fault diagnosis e.g. electrical bonding and earthing; flight control rigging
* use ground support equipment
* identify, control, repair and prevent damage, fatigue and corrosion of aircraft components
* maintain power-plant (piston or turbine engines), propellers or rotors
* use the correct bonding and assembly techniques e.g. in composite assembly
* carry out precision drilling and finishing of holes in aircraft assemblies
* identify and install mechanical fasteners
* use sealing and jointing techniques: use of seals, gaskets and jointing techniques
* assemble, repair and replace pipe work for aircraft and engine systems
* inspect, repair, remove and replace aircraft structures, components, sub-assemblies and systems
* undertake aircraft flight-line handling and operations
* carry out testing and diagnostic activities on components, sub – assemblies or whole systems, making adjustments/rectifications where applicable
* maintain aerospace components, sub – assemblies or whole systems as required undertake aircraft role configuration activities/requirements
* prepare and maintain the aircraft maintenance programme
* apply Human Factors in aviation – developing attitudes and behaviours to ensure aviation safety
* maintain relationships between the aircraft operator and the aircraft maintenance organisation recognising the regulatory responsibilities of both parties
* use relevant computer software, information systems and documentation necessary to carry out the role
* use asset and inventory management systems within a continuing airworthiness environment
* Several options are available through the apprenticeship depending on the context of the organisation, whether in civil or military aviation, rotary or fixed wing aircraft, in continuing airworthiness management or aircraft maintenance and repair organisations.
* apply the principles and methods used to implement aviation safety management systems
* apply reliability monitoring and analysis of aircraft and their systems
* apply compliance monitoring and quality auditing of the organisation and aircraft work with other personnel internal and external to the organisation, providing good customer service
* apply fleet planning, maintenance scheduling and aircraft on the ground (AOG) requirements
* read, analyse and interpret engineering data, drawings and documentation used in the design, build, operation and repair of maritime vessels
* use hand, power and machine tools to measure, mark out, cut, drill, shape and finish components to the required engineering tolerances.
* assemble, remove, maintain and overhaul components, sub-assemblies and whole systems in a maritime environment.
* apply assembly and installation methods and techniques (such as terminations, connectors, mechanical fasteners, seals, gaskets, and jointing materials) on maritime vessels.
* undertake testing, inspection and diagnostic activities on components, equipment and systems on maritime vessels, making adjustments where applicable.
* measure and mark out to carry out precision machining and hand fitting processes use hand tools to cut, drill, shape and finish components to the required engineering tolerances.
* assemble, remove and overhaul components, sub-assemblies and whole systems in a maritime environment
* apply assembly and installation methods and techniques (such as mechanical fasteners, use of seals, gaskets, and jointing materials) on board ships and submarines.
* undertake the testing, inspection and diagnostic activities on components, equipment and systems on board ships and submarines and making adjustments where applicable.
* undertake planned and corrective maintenance activities on components, equipment and systems.
* use hand and mechanical tools, jigs and test equipment safely in the Maritime Industry.
* read, analyse and interpret engineering data, drawings and documentation used in the design, build, operation and repair of maritime vessels.
* carry out fabrication and construction processes through precision measuring and marking out.
* use hand tools / machinery to cut, drill, shape and finish components to the required engineering tolerances.
* assemble, remove and overhaul components in a maritime environment.
* apply assembly and installation methods and techniques (such as mechanical fasteners, use of seals, gaskets, and jointing materials) on maritime vessels.
* undertake planned and corrective repair activities on structures, components and equipment.
* measure and mark out to enable the fabrication of pipework using a variety of materials (ferrous, non-ferrous and non-metallic) and processes (to include taking wire templates and jigs, setting to boards etc).
* wire templates and jigs, setting to boards etc).
* use hand and machine tools to cut, drill, shape and finish components to the required engineering tolerances.
* fabricate, install and repair pipe systems in a maritime environment.
* apply assembly and installation techniques (such as brazing, welding, mechanical fasteners, seals, gaskets, jointing materials and methods) on Maritime vessels.
* undertake testing, inspection and diagnostic activities on pipework systems on maritime vessels, making adjustments where applicable.
* undertake planned, corrective maintenance and survey activities on pipework components and systems.
* select and set up the correct tooling and work holding devices
* select and use a range of measuring and testing equipment to check components are to the required quality and accuracy
* read and interpret relevant data and documentation used to maintain components, equipment and systems
* carry out condition monitoring of plant and equipment
* carry out planned maintenance activities on plant and equipment
* carrying out complex fault diagnosis and repair activities on high technology engineered systems such as: Maintaining mechanical equipment, Maintaining fluid & pneumatic power equipment, Maintaining electrical & electronic equipment, Maintaining process control equipment
* carrying out confirmation testing and subsequent smooth hand over of equipment & plant support the installation, testing and commissioning of equipment (where applicable).
* read and interpret relevant data and documentation used in the design and development of components, assemblies and systems
* produce components and prototypes using a wide range of hand fitting techniques
* prepare and using lathes, milling machines, as well as other general or specialist high technology equipment such as 3D printing/additive manufacturing techniques
* use a range of mechanical, electrical and electronic testing devices and equipment
* apply mechanical principles and joining techniques to develop products, devices and equipment
* apply electrical and electronic principles to develop products devices and equipment
* identify, diagnose and rectify design problems through the whole creation process including design studio, workshops, test environments or under laboratory conditions
* read and interpret relevant data and documentation used to produce and/or maintain tool and die components, assemblies and systems
* apply methods and techniques to produce, assemble, disassemble repair and/or maintain tools, dies, jigs and fixtures as applicable to the employer requirements
* undertake testing to confirm correct operation, and of the effectiveness of repairs and maintenance activities carried out.
* undertake equipment/asset care and/or Preventative Planned Maintenance processes and procedures
* Carry out complex fault diagnosis and repair activities covering the following technologies as applicable to the tool, die, jig and fixture environment: Maintaining mechanical equipment, Maintaining fluid & pneumatic power equipment, Maintaining electrical & electronic equipment, Maintaining process control equipment
* produce technical documentation that contains all the relevant and necessary data and information required for the technical support activity being carried out
* present the technical documentation in the required format ensure that codes, symbols and other references used in the technical documentation follows agreed uk/international conventions
* save and store technical documentation in the correct format, location in accordance with organisational and/or customer requirements
* make any changes/amendments to the technical documentation using agreed quality
* assurance control procedures
* develop effective business and/or customer relationships
* provide technical advice and guidance to others
* produce engineering/manufacturing production plans
* obtain resources for engineering/manufacturing activities
* provide technical support services on products or services to internal and/or external customers
* obtain and control materials used in engineering/manufacturing environments implement quality control/assurance systems and procedures in an engineering/manufacturing environment
* produce documentation to supply or procure goods or services
* produce off line programs for computer numerical controlled machines
* produce programs for scanning/digitizing or co-ordinate measuring machines
* produce programs for programmable logic control equipment
* produce programs for industrial robot applications
* produce engineering software tools/programs for analysis, quality, configuration management, safety assessments, system security applications
* produce engineering drawings/models using computer aided design techniques (such as mechanical, electrical, fabrication, fluid power, integrated systems or services)
* undertake complex fault diagnostic and/or condition monitoring activities on equipment, plant or services
* carry out inspection activities on equipment/components/systems (such as mechanical, electrical, electronic, welded and fabricated.
* check and calibrate control and test equipment used in an engineering and/or manufacturing environment
Training schedule
This training schedule has not been finalised. Check with this employer if you’ll need to travel to a college or training location for this apprenticeship.
Requirements
Essential qualifications
GCSE in:
* Any Subject NOT including Science & English (grade 9-4)
* English (grade 9-4)
* Maths (grade 9-5)
* Science (grade 9-4)
Share if you have other relevant qualifications and industry experience. The apprenticeship can be adjusted to reflect what you already know.
Skills
* Communication skills
* Attention to detail
* Organisation skills
* Problem solving skills
* Number skills
* Analytical skills
* Logical
* Team working
* Initiative
* Patience