East Midlands Railway (EMR), which is operated by Transport UK, has today launched its 2026 recruitment campaign for Fleet Engineer Apprenticeships, inviting candidates from across the region to apply for a chance to begin a rewarding engineering career with one of the UK’s leading rail operators.
The apprenticeship programme offers a unique blend of practical, hands-on training and classroom-based learning, providing apprentices with the skills, qualifications and experience needed to maintain and support EMR’s fleet of trains.
Apprentices will join a team of skilled engineers responsible for keeping services running safely and reliably across the East Midlands and beyond.
Matthew Hardy, is a Year 2 Fleet Engineering Apprentice at Etches Park, he said: “I work as part of a large team of experienced technicians from different backgrounds, learning about key rolling stock systems like engines, transmissions and wheelsets, and understanding how safety systems keep trains running safely.
“It has been very enjoyable and it’s been great to learn on the job while gaining recognised qualifications.
“My advice to anyone applying would be to remember it’s a real team environment – good communication and working well together are essential.”
The application period will run from 6 February to 22 February 2026. As part of the process, a newly introduced information session on 11 February 2026 will give applicants an overview of the programme, outline expectations and provide an opportunity to ask questions before applying.
Shortlisted candidates will then be invited to depot tours, taking place on 31 March at Eastcroft Depot in Nottingham and 3 April at Etches Park Depot in Derby, offering a first-hand look at maintenance operations.
Assessment days will follow on 8 April at Eastcroft and 9 April at Etches Park, where candidates will take part in in-person selection activities.
Applicants are encouraged to attend the information session to gain a clear understanding of the role and requirements ahead of submitting their applications.
Attendance at the depot tours will offer valuable insight into day-to-day engineering work at EMR’s main maintenance facilities.
Kate Holden, HR Director at EMR, said: “Our Fleet Engineer Apprenticeship is designed to develop the next generation of skilled engineers for the railway.
“We are looking for motivated individuals from all backgrounds, and we’re particularly keen to encourage applications from women, young people and ethnic minority groups, to help us build a diverse and innovative workforce for the future.”
The four-year programme combines technical education with practical experience, giving apprentices the chance to earn while they learn and work alongside experienced maintenance teams.
Successful candidates will gain recognised qualifications, develop industry-relevant competencies, and build a long-term career in rail engineering.
How to apply: Interested candidates should submit their applications via the EMR careers portal between 6 and 22 February 2026.
Full details of the programme and application process are available on the EMR website here: Engineering – Jobs at East Midlands Railway
Image credit: East Midlands Railway
