Job Posted: 13 May 2024
- Contract Term: Apprenticeships
- Location: Havenstreet, Isle of Wight
- Contract Type: Full time
- Salary: Competitive salary
- Industries: Apprenticeships Maintenance
Job Start Date: Summer 2024
Here at The Isle of Wight College we work with a number of employers, in a vast array of industries. A fantastic opportunity has arisen to work for Isle of Wight Steam Railway as an Apprentice Rail Infrastructure Operative.
Are you passionate about preserving railway heritage and eager to kick-start your career in engineering? Look no further! The Isle of Wight Steam Railway is seeking an enthusiastic individual to join the team as a Rail Infrastructure Apprentice.
The Isle of Wight Steam Railway is a renowned heritage railway located in Havenstreet, Isle of Wight.
As a leading destination for steam train enthusiasts and tourists, Isle of Wight Steam Railway are dedicated to preserving the charm and nostalgia of steam travel while offering an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages, allowing them to step back in time to a bygone era.
The Isle of Wight Steam Railway was founded in 1971 with the aim of preserving part of the island's railway heritage. It runs steam trains along a 5.5-mile stretch of track between Smallbrook Junction and Wootton, passing through picturesque countryside and woodland.
The railway operates a variety of steam locomotives, many of which are of historic significance, along with vintage carriages.
Rather excitingly, Isle of Wight Steam Railway are now seeking a motivated and enthusiastic individual to join the team as an apprentice in the Rail Infrastructure department.
The Engineering Operative Level 2 Apprenticeship offers a fantastic opportunity to gain practical experience and develop practical engineering skills in a heritage railway permanent way and signalling workplace.
Tasks and Responsibilities will include:
As an Engineering Apprentice, the successful candidate will have the opportunity to learn from the team of experienced craftsmen and gain hands-on experience in maintaining, repairing, and restoring our historic steam locomotives, carriages, and infrastructure. You will work alongside our skilled engineering team, assisting with various tasks including:
- Carrying out repairs and maintenance of the railways permanent way and associated infrastructure including trackside clearance, fences, drainage, and other track maintenance.
- Assisting with the repair and management of signalling and telegraph (S&T) equipment.
- To work with the Estates Department, or other departments of the railway as required, and to co-operate with staff from other departments to ensure productivity.
- Inspection and safe operation of trains within the rolling stock department.
- Learning heritage skills including woodwork, metalwork, upholstery and painting.
- To work safely and efficiently in compliance with legislation, company policies, procedures to uphold standards.
Essential Skills:
- Good verbal and communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
- Good overall physical fitness and the ability to work in an outdoor environment in different climates.
- Good problem-solving skills and the ability to carry out practical tasks.
- Interest in learning heritage skills such as woodwork, metalwork, upholstery and painting would be desirable.
- An interest in railways would be desirable.
Qualifications Required:
GCSE grade C/4 or above in English & Maths (or equivalent qualification and/or ability to work towards these Functional Skills if not previously achieved.)
Apprenticeship Standard:
- Level 2 Engineering Operative Apprenticeship Standard.
- Functional Skills in Maths and English if required and if not previously achieved GCSE grade 4/C or above.
- There is a requirement to complete 6 hours per week off the job training during working hours, time spent either learning something new, other courses or any support work that is not in your usual role will also be counted.
- Weekly attendance at CECAMM as required.
Working Week:
- 37.5 hours per week.
- Weekly day release at CECAMM during term time.
- Weekend work may be required.
Wage:
Competitive salary.
Additional information below:
The current National Minimum Wage (NMW) rate for apprentices is £6.40 per hour. This applies to 16-18-year-old apprentices and those aged over 19 in the first year of their Apprenticeship. For all other apprentices the National Minimum wage appropriate to their age applies. The Minimum Wage for Apprentices applies to time spent on the job plus time spent training. For more information visit: www.gov.uk/national-minimum-wage-rates
Once qualified and dependant on needs of the business at the time of apprenticeship completion, there may be the potential for a permanent position.
If you're ready to embark on an exciting journey in engineering and become part of our dedicated team at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway, we want to hear from you! Please apply with a Cover Letter and CV telling us why you feel you would be the ideal person to take on this brilliant opportunity!