Aspiring engineers are being encouraged to apply for an apprenticeship with Northern.
The second largest train operator in the UK has launched a recruitment drive, as it looks to hire up to 18 apprentices who are ready to develop the mechanical and electrical engineering skills needed to fix and maintain trains.
They will take on a three-year apprenticeship, which involves classroom learning and formal on-the-job training, before gaining a nationally recognised Level 3 Engineering and Rolling Stock Qualification.
After completing a year at Myerscough College in Preston, where they will be offered accommodation, the apprentices will be based at one of three TrainCare Centres – Allerton in Liverpool, Newton Heath in Manchester or Heaton in Newcastle – or the light maintenance depot in Barrow-in-Furness.
Around 90% of those who complete the apprenticeship are offered permanent positions with Northern.
The operator currently employs more than 1,700 people in its engineering team, who work on more than 370 trains, at five depots and seven outstations across the North of England.
Raj Basi, Northern’s engineering director, said: “This is not work experience. This is an opportunity to develop the knowledge, skills and experience you need to work on the railway and keep services running for customers, day in day out.
“We are looking to take on people who have a practical mindset and a genuine interest in engineering, so they can begin a rewarding and well-paid career in a safety-critical industry.
“We’re invested in building careers that last, creating opportunities to grow and develop as the railway changes.”
Applicants must be over the age of 15 when they apply and 16 or older by September 1 in 2026.
They need at least five GCSEs, with a 5-9 or equivalent in Maths, English, Science and two other subjects, and should live within a 45-minute drive of the TrainCare Centre or light maintenance depot they are applying for.
Anyone who is interested in an apprenticeship can find out more information and apply here.
Northern is the second largest train operator in the UK, with 2,650 services a day to more than 500 stations across the North of England.
Image credit: Northern
