Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships are an exciting option to get directly involved in engineering - you get hands-on training, the chance to put your skills into practice and earn while you do it.

Apprenticeships are available at multiple levels in our civil engineering, ground engineering and plant & equipment departments. From school leavers, people upskilling in their careers and complete career changes. We have a number of options to choose from, which can be tailored to meet your aspirations and some include a qualification, like a degree. 

Guides and Resources

CITB - A Guide to Construction Apprenticeships for Students

NI Direct - Apprenticeship Information

UK Government - Apprenticship Resource Hub 

DAWSON-WAM Apprenticeship Opportunities

APPRENTICE: Civil Engineer or Ground Engineer 

The Role

Reading, interpretation and providing clear communication of construction drawings on site for layouts, material measurements etc.

Effectively influencing the progress on sites and ensuring programme deadlines are met.

Developing effective relationships and dealing with clients and subcontractors.

Working closely with all other team members to ensure that the Quality, Environmental and Health & Safety aspects of the work are adhered to during your project phase on site.

Continually developing your knowledge in the industry, communicating and implementing best practice guidance to line managers and relevant staff.

To undertake any other duties as allocated.

The Person

Work effectively within a team environment

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Work proactively with a keen interest in devolving their careers within the Civil Engineering sector.

The Experience

Working towards level 4 HLA apprenticeship programme in Construction | Civil Engineering

Full UK driving Licence

APPRENTICE: Piling Operative

The Role
You’ll join our site teams delivering piling and retaining wall works across the UK & Ireland. Working under experienced operatives and supervisors, you will learn to:

Set out work areas, handle materials and assist with rig setup, piling tools and driving caps.

Read and follow method statements, RAMS and drawings to support safe, efficient operations.

Carry out pre-start checks, housekeeping and basic maintenance of plant, tools and lifting gear.

Use measuring and recording tools to capture pile data (lengths, levels, blow counts, concrete volumes).

Support lifting and slinging of piles and accessories under the direction of a qualified Slinger/Signaller.

Maintain strict Health, Safety, Environmental and Quality standards, including exclusion zones, spill control and permits.

Work collaboratively with engineers, foremen and subcontractors to meet programme milestones.

Take part in training and rotate through tasks to build your skills towards Piling Operative / Assistant Rig Operator responsibilities.

The Person

A team player with a positive, safety-first attitude and good communication skills.

Hands-on, practical, and comfortable working outdoors in all weather.

Reliable, organised and keen to learn new skills and develop a career in civil engineering / piling.

Willing to travel and work flexible hours (some nights/weekends may be required).

The Experience / Training

Enrolled on or eligible for an apprenticeship (e.g., FPS, Construction or Civil Engineering pathway).

CSCS (or willing to obtain) and full PPE compliance.

Full UK driving licence preferred (or working towards), to support travel between sites.

Any prior site, mechanical, plant or trades experience is a bonus—but not essential; full training provided.

What you’ll get

Structured on-the-job training with accredited qualifications.

Mentoring from experienced piling professionals.

Clear progression towards Piling Operative / Assistant Rig Operator, with opportunities across major infrastructure projects.

APPRENTICE: Plant Fitter

Our Apprenticeship Programme covers all the essential skills and principles you will need to become a Plant Mechanic and you'll learn how to service and repair machines and equipment, including replacing parts and checking and calibrating instruments. You'll also study everything from basic engineering skills to the latest technological advancements in electro-hydraulics and computerised control systems.

Our Apprenticeship Programme allows you to earn as you learn:

To apply for the DAWSON WAM Ltd Apprenticeship Programme, you will need to demonstrate the following:

4 GCSE grade C or above

A keen interest in Plant Technology

High level of attention to detail and accuracy

Good communication skills

So what's next?

If you fit the profile and are up for the challenge, we would love to hear from you!

To apply all you need to do is upload your CV and complete our short application form and we'll take it from there. Click here to download an application form.

DAWSON WAM LTD IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES EMPLOYER