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Applicant
Employer

Higher Level Civil Engineering Apprentice Atkins

  • Employer Profile

    Atkins

  • Positions

    3

  • Location

    Atkins, The Vantage Building, 5th Floor, 32-36 Great Victoria Street, Belfast, BT2 7BA

  • Salary

    £20000

  • Start date

  • Location Type

    Hybrid

Job Description


Transform our urban legacy

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

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

While you grow in areas that excite you, 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. Let's also talk about some of our recent pledges for Women's Equality and how we're Disability Confident and an Inclusive Employer.  

With Atkins you'll be in great company.   

What you’ll be studying

Based in our Belfast office we have apprenticeship opportunities within our Infrastructure and Transportation business areas. Please click on the link below to understand in more detail about what the apprenticeship involves:

Level 5 Degree Apprenticeships: Civil Engineering - Belfast

To learn more about this apprenticeship please click here.

Academic Requirements: 5 GCSE Grade 4 (or C) or above in English Language and Maths, or equivalent and minimum tariff of 56 UCAS points at GCE/VCE A Level, to include Grade D in Mathematics or Physics.

You’ll be working in the Infrastructure or Transportation business area. Please note that further information about this business area will be discussed with you at interview stage.

What you could be doing

You’ll also get support from our leaders, technical specialists and your own dedicated mentor. Our framework for continuous learning and development will support you as you grow. Together, we’ll do amazing things where you’ll have the opportunity to be part of a team of big thinkers. 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. Our apprenticeship programme is well established and is designed to give you maximum exposure to different experiences. You'll get to share your thinking, test your ideas, and start focusing on the work you enjoy most whilst supporting the technical aspects of multidisciplinary design projects. 

You'll be making a sustainable difference in people's lives, shaping cities, reimagining transport and transforming nuclear energy. And with the choice 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 would involve:

  • Developing your skills in a wide range of exciting projects

  • Learning about project lifecycles which in turn will allow you to support your team.

  • 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

Please click here to watch a video from one of our current apprentices - Faris Ibrahim to learn more about life at Atkins as an apprentice. You can also read our apprentice blogs on our website.  

Meeting your needs

We aim to promote a workplace which allows our people to perform at their best. So, as well as ensuring you’re rewarded for your efforts, we also have a variety of initiatives in place to create a healthy workplace and support your well-being: 

  • 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  

  • An enhanced maternity scheme and family friendly policies 

  • 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 to be used with a charity or STEM initiative of your choice 

  • Join any of our employee networks for social interaction, peer support and personal development, as well as contributing to the development of policies and working practices 

  • Opportunities to further develop yourself by applying to our Women’s Professional Development Programme and ethnic minority Empowering Programme 

To view all available benefits, visit our Total Rewards portal

To find out more and for advice on how to play to your strengths, visit us on Connectr.

As a Disability Confident Employer, we are able to support you to perform at your best at each stage of our recruitment process and can make adjustments to ensure this. So, whether you consider yourself to have a disability or not, or would simply like to know how we can support you better, please contact us confidentially on apprenticeships@atkinsglobal.com

More about us

Atkins, a member of the SNC-Lavalin Group, is a leading global consultancy with over 80 years' design and engineering expertise. With us, you'll join a team of people who ask questions, who dare to see things differently and want to build a better world.  

Check out some of our recent, most exciting projects

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. 

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


About you

We’re not all the same, and that’s our greatest strength. Different views and opinions enhance our ability to provide value-added performance and better services for our clients.  That’s why we believe different, makes a difference. 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.  

Our apprenticeship programme has been designed to give you an insight into the huge variety and the chance to explore where your own skills and interests lie. Through a combination of on-the-job learning and practical skills development within your chosen role, 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. 

Find out more about why we believe ‘Different, makes a difference’.  

What you’ll need

  • An interest for working in a consultancy environment 

  • Embracing 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 within a supportive team

  • Motivation to achieve a professional qualification 

  • Comfortable to embrace digital ways of working and learning new technologies

Applicable courses

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:

  1. 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).

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. Access Course: A minimum of 44% average in a relevant discipline of which modules must include Mathematics and Advanced/Further Mathematics.

  4. 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).

  5. Students presenting with international qualifications must also refer to //www.ulster.ac.uk/global/apply/entry-requirements for entry requirements.

Duration

2

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.

Civil EngineeringSouth West College

Description

This course is designed to prepare learners for a career in Civil Engineering and related industries at higher technician level. It will provide learners with specific practical and professional skills in analysis, organisation, design, teamwork and communication. The course also aims to prepare learners to progress to Honours Degree level study or directly enter employment as a highly skilled employee.

Accredited IEng (Partial)

This qualification is approved by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) comprising the Institution of Civil Engineers, Institution of Structural Engineers, Institute of Highway Engineers, and the Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation on behalf of the Engineering Council.as:

1. fully satisfying the educational base for an Engineering Technician (EngTech).
2. partially satisfying the educational base for an Incorporated Engineer (IEng).

A programme of accredited Further Learning will be required to complete the educational base for IEng. See www.jbm.org.uk for further information and details of Further Learning programmes for IEng.

EngTech

This qualification is approved by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) comprising the Institution of Civil Engineers, Institution of Structural Engineers, Institute of Highway Engineers, and the Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation on behalf of the Engineering Council as fully satisfying the educational base for an Engineering Technician (EngTech).

See www.jbm.org.uk for further information.

Assessment Method

Learners will be assessed by coursework, examinations or a combination of both. Coursework assignments will include practical activities, laboratory experiments, live projects and group presentations. Learners will also be assessed in the workplace as part of the assessment for the Work based Learning module.

Modules

This course contains all the core modules associated with Civil Engineering, including Structural Mechanics, Geotechnics, Hydraulics and Road Design. Surveying, CAD and Technology will also be covered.

  • Civil Engineering Technology & Materials

  • Geology & Soil Mechanics

  • Surveying for Civil Engineers

  • Mathematics & Structures

  • 2D & 3D CAD for Civil Engineers

  • Civil Engineering Project & Professional Development

  • Work-based Learning

  • Infrastructure & Engineering Design

  • Civil Engineering Management & Measurement

  • Fluid Mechanics & Water Engineering

  • Further Mathematics for Civil Engineers

Award

Foundation Degree

Validated By

Ulster University

Eligibility

18+ Fully Funded

Entry Criteria

56 UCAS points (part-time) - AS /A Level/BTEC qualifications or approved equivalent, GSCE English and Maths at Grade C or University-approved equivalent. Applicants must hold an A Level pass 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 and Digital Technology). Alternative qualifications such as BTEC National awards in STEM subjects are also acceptable. Mature Learners will be assessed on an individual basis. Refer to general entry requirements.

Duration

3

Start Date

Thursday 12 September 2024

End Date

Saturday 26 June 2027

Progression Pathway

Graduates may (subject to performance) progress to BEng Honours Degree in Civil Engineering or BSc Honours Civil Engineering. Exemptions may also be given for entry onto BSc Honours Construction Engineering and Management validated The Open University. These programmes are offered at Ulster University, Belfast. Learners may take up employment in the private sector with civil engineering consultants, contractors or specialists or in the public sector in government departments.

Career Opportunities

  • Structural Engineering

  • Environmental Engineering

  • Transportation Engineering

  • Geotechnical Engineering

  • Water Resource Engineering

  • Project Management

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Applications open until 26th August