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Engineering

Level 6 Rail & Rail Systems Engineering Apprenticeship (Signalling)

Network Rail
Salary
£24,500
Duration
up to 5 years
Positions available
1
Degree awarded
Bachelor's degree (Level 6)
Start date
1 September 2026
Minimum grades
A Levels: BBB including Maths and a physical science (120 UCAS points); or BTEC National Diploma DDM with Level 3 Mathematics and Physical Sciences (128 UCAS points); or EAL Technical Extended Diploma in Engineering Technologies grade D; or Access to HE qualifications with 24 Distinctions and 21 Merits; or equivalent level 3 qualifications worth 120 UCAS points. Must hold 5 GCSEs grade A-C including Maths and English (reformed GCSEs grade 4 or above).

About the role

An engineering apprenticeship combining structured learning with real, on-the-job experience. You will balance part-time university study with work experience, learning the fundamentals of the railway while working in Design/Project engineering teams to renew and enhance rail infrastructure. You will gain experience across a variety of rail projects, from traditional trackside signalling and level crossing operations to working on the next generation of in-cab signalling or level crossing technology. Work is generally Monday to Friday in corporate offices, but may involve shift patterns, site visits, and various weather conditions.

Requirements

Enthusiastic individuals who are logical thinkers with an organised mindset. You should enjoy collaborating with other team members and be confident in communicating with people of all levels. Self-motivated with a good work ethic, strong interpersonal skills, proactive team player, passionate and eager to contribute. An interest in Engineering, preferably in Rail. Able to connect with others easily and build strong relationships.

Working week

Generally Monday to Friday in corporate offices, but may involve shift patterns and site visits

Skills

Engineering designProject managementRailway systems knowledgeSignalling expertiseProblem-solvingTeam collaborationCommunicationTechnical analysis

Required qualifications

Essential
A Level · Maths · Grade B
Essential
A Level · Physical Science · Grade B
Essential
GCSE · Maths · Grade 4
Essential
GCSE · English · Grade 4
Desired
BTEC National Diploma · Mathematics and Physical Sciences · Grade DDM
Desired
EAL Technical Extended Diploma · Engineering Technologies · Grade D

Training & development

You will complete the Level 6 Rail and Rail Systems Senior Engineering Apprenticeship (Integrated Degree). Training includes core knowledge, skills and behaviours for professional registration as Incorporated Engineer (IEng) or through the Institute of Railway Signal Engineers (IRSE). Solid training and development opportunities to enhance knowledge and increase confidence. You may have the opportunity to take part in planned rotations while undertaking formal training with the university.
Future prospects
Upon completion, you will achieve a bachelor's degree level qualification. You can apply for Design or Project Engineering positions within Network Rail.

Company benefits

Network Rail provides solid training and development opportunities, support for professional registration development (IEng, IRSE), and career progression opportunities. Upon completion, apprentices can apply for Design or Project Engineering positions within Network Rail.

Things to consider

Applicants must confirm there is a Network Rail location within 60 minutes commute of their address/postcode. The role may involve shift patterns, travelling to various sites, and working across a mix of weather conditions. Applications for 2026 apprenticeships have now closed; you can register your interest to be notified when applications open for 2027.

About Network Rail

Network Rail is responsible for renewing and enhancing rail infrastructure for the benefit of passengers. They are growing and becoming more technologically advanced, committed to supporting their apprentices to develop core knowledge, skills and behaviours.
Website
www.networkrail.co.uk