Higher Level Civil Engineering Apprentice (Level 5) - Atkins

Job Description

Transform our urban legacy

Do you have a desire to make a difference in the world?

Are you ready to be part of a world-leading, inspiring and ambitious team? We’re making some exciting changes to our company brands and uniting SNC-Lavalin, Atkins, and Faithful+Gould to become AtkinsRéalis. Aligned to this we’re introducing a brand new look.

This is a journey, and it will take time to evolve, so for early careers you will still see us as Atkins for the time being. Please be reassured that this doesn’t impact any of the roles you apply for – we’re still us, just better.

Atkins, operating under AtkinsRéalis is a leading global consultancy with over 80 years of design, engineering and project management expertise. With us, you’ll join a team that asks questions and dares to see things differently while engineering a better future for our planet and its people.

Join our Apprenticeship Programme to be a part of the future of design and engineering.

While you develop in your apprenticeship, we also encourage you to maintain a positive work-life balance. So, during our recruitment process, tell us what matters to you. Speak to us about how we support wellbeing in and out of the office – including different ways to be flexible around work. We’re not all the same, and that’s our greatest strength. Reaching your full potential means being able to bring your whole self to work and being respected for the different opinions, strengths and experience you bring. Find out more about why we believe ‘Different, makes a difference’.

What you’ll be studying

Based in our Belfast office, we have an opportunity for a Civil Engineering apprenticeship for our Infrastructure business.

Level 5 Degree Apprenticeships:

Civil Engineering

To learn more about this apprenticeship and the academic requirements please click here.

If you’d like to find out more about our Infrastructure business, please click here. Further information about this business area will also be discussed with you during your interview and you’ll have a chance to ask questions.

Your apprenticeship in a bit more detail:

Our apprenticeships are designed to give you an insight into a wide variety of areas of work and the chance to explore where your skills and interests lie. Through a combination of on-the-job learning and practical skills development, you’ll work on real projects from day one that offer scale and variety, collaborating with others and creating meaningful impact on the world around us. You’ll work towards your professional qualification; whichever path you take, your future starts here.

You’ll also be supported by our leaders, technical specialists, your own dedicated mentor and our continuous learning and development framework.

Not only will you gain valuable 'on the job' experience and work towards professional qualifications but you'll also earn a meaningful salary from day one. We’re proud to be paying Real Living Wage for our Level 6 Apprenticeships.

You'll be making a sustainable difference in people's lives, shaping cities, reimagining transport and transforming nuclear energy. And with the opportunity to work across Cities & Development, Nuclear & Power, Transportation, Water or Environment, you'll decide where you want your career to go.

Here’s what your role as an apprentice will involve:

Developing your skills in a wide range of exciting projects
Learning and using relevant design software
Being involved in client meetings and assisting in building key client relationships
You’ll get to understand and learn digital skills, to help us harness technology in new ways
Your mentors will support you as you study towards nationally recognised qualifications and accreditation
You’ll have dedicated time to spend at college or university to focus on your studies

Please click here to watch a video from one of our apprentices and to learn more about life at Atkins as an apprentice, check out our early careers blogs.

Meeting your needs

As well as ensuring you’re rewarded for your efforts, we also have a variety of initiatives to support you:

33 days annual leave, including bank holidays. You also have the option to buy an additional 15 days or sell up to 5 days
Flexible working arrangements
Access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) providing you with immediate and confidential help for any work, health or life matters
Two paid annual volunteer days
Join any of our employee networks for social interaction, peer support and personal development
Opportunities to further develop yourself by applying to various companywide development programmes
An enhanced maternity scheme and family friendly policies
Life #InsideAtkins - join hundreds of talented apprentices, with opportunities from skill-building to social events, charity challenges, social clubs, and more.

To view all available benefits, visit our Total Rewards portal.

You can also check out our Connectr platform for tips and advice on applying. On Connectr you can even message your questions directly to one of our apprentice mentors.

We’re a Disability Confident Employer, and can make adjustments to support you to perform at your best during the recruitment process. Please contact us confidentially at apprenticeships@atkinsglobal.com to find out how we can support you.

More about us

Atkins, a member of the SNC-Lavalin Group, is a leading global consultancy. From designing end-to-end project solutions to pioneering new technologies and ways of working, everything we do supports our goal of delivering outstanding project outcomes for our clients, while engineering a better future for our planet and its people – no matter the scale, complexity or location of their project. Learn more.

This role may require security clearance and offers of employment will be dependent on obtaining the relevant level of clearance. If this is necessary, it will be discussed with you at interview. The vetting process is delivered by United Kingdom Security Vetting (UKSV) and may require candidates to provide proof of residency in the UK of 5 years or longer.

If applying to this role please do not make reference to (in conversation) or include in your application or CV, details of any current or previously held security clearance.

Atkins are an A rated sponsor, if you have any queries regarding sponsorship, please visit our International Student careers page.

We are committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive community - a place where we can all be ourselves, thrive and develop. To help embed inclusion for all, from day one, we offer a range of family friendly, inclusive employment policies, flexible working arrangements and employee networks to support staff from different backgrounds. As an Equal Opportunities Employer, we value applications from all backgrounds, cultures and ability.

Person Specification

What you can bring:

To thrive throughout your apprenticeship and shape the best start to your career you’ll want to show us:

An interest for working in a consultancy environment
That you embrace equality, diversity and inclusion in everything you do
A desire to work collaboratively with a curious approach, challenging yourself to find new solutions
Enthusiasm and drive to complete your apprenticeship programme and seek out development opportunities
You’re motivated to achieve a professional qualification and continue learning
You’re comfortable to embrace digital ways of working and learning new technologies.

Applicable courses

Whilst you are applying to an employer through Workplus you must apply directly to the training providers to secure your place on the apprenticeship course.

Civil EngineeringBelfast Metropolitan College

Description

If you have completed A Level or equivalent you may be interested in a Higher Level Apprenticeship (HLA). It offers you the opportunity to study and gain a recognised Higher Level Qualification whilst in paid employment. For more information visit the nidirect websiteand apprenticeships explained.

Civil Engineers play a vital role in the planning, design and construction of the infrastructure which is fundamental to the economic wellbeing of a region or country. Civil Engineers, therefore, have very wide career opportunities and are employed for their scientific knowledge, design expertise, problem-solving skills and business awareness.

This course is accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators (ICE, IStructE, CIHT, IHE).*

This is a full time Foundation Degree programme offered by Belfast Met in collaboration with Ulster University. The course is designed for people who wish to progress to study a degree in civil engineering or are interested in a career in the construction/civil engineering industry and require a Foundation Degree to enhance employment prospects.

Modules of study include:

Civil Engineering Technology & Materials
Mathematics & Structures
CADD & Graphical Communication
Geology & Soil Mechanics
Infrastructure & Engineering Design
Civil Engineering Project & Professional Development
Surveying for Civil Engineers
Management and Measurement
Fluid Mechanics & Water Engineering
Further Maths with Structural Analysis
Work Based Learning

*This qualification is accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) comprising the Institution of Civil Engineers, Institution of Structural Engineers, Institute of Highway Engineers, the Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation and the Permanent Way Institution on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirements for registration as an Engineering Technician (EngTech) and partially meeting the academic requirement for registration as an Incorporated Engineer (IEng). Candidates must hold a Bachelors (with or without honours) accredited as Further Learning for IEng to hold accredited qualifications for IEng registration.

See www.jbm.org.uk for further information and details of Further Learning programmes for IEng.

Modules

Year 1

Geology and Soil Mechanics

50% coursework / 50% exam

This module will provide the learner with an introduction to the engineering characteristics of geological materials and the formation of rocks and soils, with reference to the design of foundations of buildings and bridges, embankments and cuttings, dams and earth retaining walls.

Surveying for Civil Engineers

100% coursework

The module is designed to develop an understanding of both fundamental and modern surveying theories, techniques and processes. Competence in use of levelling equipment and modern survey equipment will be developed through control and topographic survey assignments and co-ordinated setting out exercises.

Civil Engineering Project and Professional Development

100% coursework

This module will consolidate all learning on Level 4 modules. It is an opportunity for active and engaged learning which aims to motivate learners, increase their ability to apply what they have learned, and aid them to obtain a deeper knowledge and understanding of the applications of their skills.

Year 2

Civil Engineering Management & Measurement

50% coursework / 50% exam

This module introduces the management processes required on a modern civil engineering project. The module’s focus is on the planning and programming of resources; health & safety management requirements; contractual arrangements and procedures; measurement, costing, procurement and tendering arrangements for construction works.

Infrastructure & Engineering Design

100% coursework

Infrastructure and Engineering Design is a module in which the student will be able to demonstrate the application of technical design principles and apply these skills in determining the best solution to common civil engineering problems whilst considering sustainability of the project and its environmental impact. This will allow students to develop a greater awareness of the role of civil engineering technology and to appreciate its integrative nature.

Further Mathematics with Structural Analysis

50% coursework / 50% exam

The primary aim of this unit is to supplement the fundamental analytical knowledge and techniques covered in the first year of the course with more advanced concepts and techniques. These will include numerical and analytical methods, complex numbers, vector and matrix algebra.

Assessment is by a combination of coursework, practical and written examination.

Award

Foundation Degree

Validated By

Ulster University

Eligibility

18+ Fully Funded

Entry Criteria

To be eligible for this programme, applicants must be in employment or have secured employment with a relevant employer prior to commencing the course, and satisfy the Ulster University General Entrance Requirements as specified in the University General Regulations and at least one of the following:

A minimum of five passes at GCSE Grade C or 4 and above, which must include Mathematics and English Language (approved equivalents can be found at //www.ulster.ac.uk/study/entrance-requirements), and either:
1. A minimum tariff of 56 UCAS points at GCE/VCE A Level, to include Grade D in one of the following subject areas: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Engineering, Biology, Geography, Applied Science or DA Science, Life and Health Science (single or double award), Technology (including Technology & Design, Design & Technology, Environmental Technology, Environmental Science and Digital Technology);
  OR
2. Pearson BTEC National Extended Diploma in Construction, Civil Engineering, Engineering or Manufacturing Engineering with a minimum grade of Merit Pass Pass (MPP) and include a Merit in Mathematics, or Further Mathematics, or Structural Mechanics, or Public Health Engineering, or Mechanical Principles, or Principles and Applications of Fluid Mechanics;
  OR
3. Pearson BTEC National Diploma in Construction (Civil Engineering), with a minimum grade of Merit Pass (MP) and include a Merit in Further Mathematics. Applicants must also hold a Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Diploma in Civil Engineering for Technicians (Institution of Civil Engineers) (9 units);
  OR
4. A minimum tariff of 56 UCAS points with a combination of A Level and/or BTEC Level 3 Awards. The subject requirement must be met either through the A Level or the BTEC award (see a and b above).

Irish Leaving Certificate: a minimum tariff of 56 UCAS points from four subjects at higher level to include Mathematics or Physics at H3. Must include English and Mathematics at min grade H6 or O4.
Scottish Highers: a minimum tariff of 56 UCAS points, which must include Mathematics or Physics at Grade B or above. Scottish Advanced Highers: a minimum tariff of 56 UCAS points, which must include Mathematics or Physics. Plus GCSE Maths and English at grade C or 4 and above.
Access Course: A minimum of 44% average in a relevant discipline of which modules must include Mathematics and Advanced/Further Mathematics.
Evidence of an ability to undertake the programme through the accreditation of prior experiential learning which must be submitted in accordance with the College Policy Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) Higher Education Process available on the college website. Plus a minimum of five passes at GCSE Grade C or 4 and above, which must include Mathematics and English Language (or approved equivalents: see 1 above).
Students presenting with international qualifications must also refer to //www.ulster.ac.uk/global/apply/entry-requirements for entry requirements.

Duration

Start Date

Monday 16 September 2024

End Date

Monday 01 June 2026

Progression Pathway

Successful students can progress to Level 6 (Undergraduate BEng in Civil Engineering). Students may also progress to either year two of the full time programme at Ulster University or year three of the part-time Civil Engineering Undergraduate Programme

With further study (four years part-time or two years full-time), students can graduate with an honours degree. Students can also apply for other design/engineering related degree courses at different institutions. Alternatively, they may choose to seek full-time employment in the construction or civil engineering industry.

STUDENT TESTIMONIALS:

Timothy McCaughey EngTech MICE

Background

I left school in 2017 having completed GCSE’s to study a BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Civil Engineering before progressing to the HLA in Civil Engineering at Belfast Met in 2019.

What’s next

Being in the final year of my Foundation Degree I have made plans to continue my studies and undertake a MEng Civil Engineering HLA PT at Ulster University with the aim of becoming a Chartered Engineer in the ICE in the future.

Advice for prospective students

Work hard and try to get as much work experience as possible to test out your career interests.

Be open to all opportunities that come your way, don’t be scared to try new things and discover the best career path for you.

Tammy Dodds EngTech MICE

Background

I began my Civil engineering journey at the age of 28 after a career in the military and having my children. I decided on an apprenticeship as I always wanted to have a career in engineering, however having children and bills to pay I felt full-time education was not an option. By completing an apprenticeship, I can earn while I learn and support my family financially.

What’s next

I plan to complete my Foundation degree in civil engineering and continue on the HLA route to complete a BEng and MEng at Ulster University. I will continue my employment with Arup and complete IEng and CEng professional qualifications with the Institution of Civil Engineers.

Advice for prospective students

Be driven and determined in everything you do, you can achieve anything you set your mind to.

Network – get to know people in the industry and make contacts and push for good work experience.

Go after what YOU want and listen to your gut instinct. If it doesn’t feel right it probably isn’t.

Katie Embleton

Background

Studying A-Level Technology and Design, Mathematics and Digital Technology made me realise my interest in STEM subjects and lead me to apply for this apprenticeship. I liked the idea of being able to work and study simultaneously.

What’s next

To complete this Foundation Degree and continue my studies at Ulster University part-time, whilst working for AECOM. My goal is to become a Chartered Civil Engineer.

Advice for prospective students

Ensure you research and find out about different career choices and what they involve so you are confident in your final decision. Show your eagerness for this career path and gain as much work experience as you can.

Ryan Davis EngTech MICE

Background

After completing GCSE’s and A Levels I was interested in getting involved in the construction industry. I studied the Level 3 Apprenticeship in Civil Engineering with Belfast Met, whilst continually developing and building upon my knowledge and skills within the industry at AECOM.

What’s next

I aim to progress onwards to study the Civil Engineering Higher Level Apprenticeship Part Time course at Ulster University with the end goal of completing a Master Degree in Civil Engineering. Ultimately allowing me to sit a review for Chartership with the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE).

Advice for prospective students

If you are interested in getting involved in a construction industry apprenticeship, work hard to try and attain the best results you can at your given stage of study. This will go a long way, potentially allowing you to enter at the Higher Level Apprenticeship stage, and if possible, try and get some work experience within the industry to test out your career interests.

Aparna Jamgade EngTech MICE

Background

I studied GCSEs, A Levels and BArch Degree in India, however due to family commitments and the recession, I had a career gap of 15 years. But I saw a light in the dark tunnel in the form of the HLA in Civil Engineering and grabbed the opportunity to step into my dream, the world of the Construction Industry.

What’s next

To progress to study the Civil Engineering BEng/MEng at Ulster University and with work experience get Professional Qualification through Certified Construction Industry Institutions (ICE, CIHT) etc.

Advice for prospective students

Work experience will give you an insight of career interests and once it is defined - never give up on your dreams.

Work+