UK’s biggest rail operator on the search for budding engineers as it launches recruitment drive

Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) is calling on budding engineers to apply for its 2026 intake of apprentice engineers, as vacancies are now live to join the UK’s largest rail operator.

Aspiring engineers will learn how to maintain GTR’s large fleet of trains for Southern, Great Northern and Gatwick Express and progressively take on more responsibility as their skills improve during the four-year apprenticeship. The course is a balance of practical and theory learning, leading to a UK-recognised trade qualification.

The apprenticeship is open to those aged 16 and above and candidates must have Level 4 or above in GCSE English, Maths and Science to qualify for the role.

Cameron Wytiahlowsky, Engineering Apprentice Trainer Assessor at GTR, said: “Engineering is at the heart of everything we do at GTR because our colleagues keep our trains moving for the thousands of customers who rely on our services. As we continue to upgrade our fleet and infrastructure, we’re always looking for the next generation of engineers who are eager to start a career in the railway. This is a brilliant opportunity to learn the trade, where apprentices will gain a wealth of knowledge on different types of trains, faults and GTR depots, while earning a salary.

“Those who train with us will receive free travel across the network, making it easier for apprentices of all backgrounds to get to college and other locations, so they can unlock their full potential. GTR offers extensive development opportunities and many of our apprentices gain permanent employment at GTR after finishing their apprenticeship. Several of our managers also started their careers with us through an apprenticeship.”

Senior Talent Acquisition Consultant, Karen Day, said: “We’re excited to have launched our recruitment drive for our engineering apprenticeships and look forward to hearing from candidates who want to begin a fulfilling career with the UK’s largest rail operator. The railway has traditionally been a male-dominated industry, so we’re also keen to encourage more women to consider a career in engineering, as it’s an exciting industry to get into and no day is the same. Our applications close on Wednesday, 31 December, so don’t hesitate to apply!”

GTR is offering a starting salary of £17,245, which gradually increases as apprentices progress through their course. Fourth year apprentices can expect to earn £24,090.

Once apprentices qualify as a Level 1 engineer, they can expect to earn approximately £37,824.

Vacancies are live now. Interested candidates should visit the following link here.

Notes to editors

• Applicants must be able to travel to East Surrey College and various locations on GTR’s network for work.