Engineering Design Technician

Shape the future of our capital's transport network - Become an Engineering Design Technician!

How long: 3.5 years

Where: London/Hybrid

Salary: £25,294

What you'll need

  • A minimum of 2 GCSE's (or equivalent) Grade 4 - 9 (A*- C), including English and Maths. Qualification in IT and/or Science is desirable.
  • You must be a minimum of 18 years of age before September 2025 to be eligible for this scheme.

Job overview

Are you ready to make a real difference, helping to shape the future of one of the world's most iconic cities? Transport for London is at the heart of the Capital's transport network, and our CAD engineers play a vital role in designing its future. We're looking for the next generation of creative thinkers and problem solvers to join our Apprenticeship Scheme. This is your opportunity to be part of a team that transforms London's transport network, improves millions of journeys every day, and builds a greener, more connected city.

As a CAD (Computer Aided Design) Apprentice, you'll have the unique chance to work with and learn from some of the world's leading engineers. Joining our diverse engineering community, you'll develop skills, gain hands-on experience on major infrastructure projects, and receive support towards professional qualifications.

Our CAD engineers work on some of the most complex and innovative projects in the UK; one day you might be contributing to the design of new trains for the Piccadilly Line Upgrade, and the next you might be drafting plans for a new road link on the Silvertown Tunnel project. We span all transport modes, from London Underground to Buses, DLR, and Highways & Streets. From upgrading infrastructure to exploring emerging technologies, you'll take the first steps on an incredible journey where you can grow, learn, and make a lasting impact on London.

What you'll be doing

As a CAD Apprentice, you'll be joining TfL Central Engineering's Business & Digital Team, where you will gain hands on experience with the London Underground and Surface Transport CAD Teams. 

You will be using CAD software to create concept and detailed design models, plans, simulations and graphics for various infrastructure projects around London, working closely with engineers and project teams to bring concepts to life. As part of Central Engineering, you'll be a part of major projects like the Piccadilly Line Upgrade or the Bakerloo Line Extension, or the Cycle Superhighway, solving complex problems, and implementing  innovative solutions.

As we're a multidisciplinary team, you'll also complete a number of placements whist on the scheme, gaining skills, knowledge and experience in:

  • Survey
  • GIS (Geographic Information Systems)
  • Innovations 
  • Civil Engineering 
  • Traffic Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering 
  • Electrical Engineering

(Subject to availability of placements during your apprenticeship)

Where this career can take you

In this diverse and challenging apprenticeship, you'll work towards an NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Engineering Design. Through a blend of on-the-job learning with leading professionals and experienced CAD modellers and engineers, you'll hone valuable skills and gain extensive industry experience.

You'll also benefit from additional training including:

  • CAD software such as Bentley MicroStation, Open Buildings Designer, AutoCAD and 
  • Revit
  • 2D & 3D Modelling
  • Production of Engineering Drawings 
  • Building Information Modelling (BIM)