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Careers with Translink

Apprenticeships

Translink, operating as Ulsterbus, Metro, Northern Ireland Railways and NITHCo, provide bus and rail services across Northern Ireland.

We operate 1410 buses alongside 47 trains, providing the Northern Ireland public with comprehensive Public Transport services. In addition, we own a wide range of infrastructure assets including 400+ bridges, 360 signals, 170 railway level crossings as well as halts, stations, park & rides sites and integrated transport hubs.

It is an ever-changing environment and key projects are continually evolving as we transform the face of public transport in Northern Ireland. This extensive network requires modern and varied engineering facilities which are located throughout the province.

Translink Apprenticeship opportunities

Applications now closed
 

We operate 1410 buses alongside 47 trains

What is an Apprenticeship

An apprenticeship is a real job offering hands on experience, comprehensive training and a technical qualification all whilst earning a salary. They involve a combination of working and learning on site for 4 days a week whilst attending college on one day to complete a formal qualification. 

All our Apprentices are fully employed by Translink from the first day of their apprenticeship with a contract of employment, paid holidays and many other competitive benefits. As an apprentice you will be working with experienced staff and learning from colleagues across all levels of the business. 

Apprentice performance is consistently monitored and appraised. Completing an apprenticeship with Translink will equip you with skills for life as well as enabling you to secure permanent employment and gain a professional qualification. 

Anyone aged 16 or over can become an Apprentice, there is no upper age limit, however, due to track safety reasons, Infrastructure and Projects Apprentices will need to be aged 18 or over.  

Bus & Rail Engineering Apprenticeships

In order to maintain and develop the highest standards of engineering, we have identified opportunities for structured 4-year Apprenticeships which will commence in September 2025.

This Translink Apprenticeship Programme will give you the skills, knowledge and behaviours to become an Engineer.

Career Routes

We currently have engineering apprenticeships available across Northern Ireland in the following trades:

  • Engineering - Bus Maintenance (Body Trades)
  • Engineering - Bus/Rail Maintenance (Technical Trades)

Download the Bus and Rail Engineering apprenticeship booklet here.

Infrastructure & Projects Apprenticeships

The Translink Infrastructure and Projects department manages, monitors, maintains and reviews all infrastructure and projects that support NI Railways, Ulsterbus, Metro and Glider services. Translink Infrastructure and Projects teams are involved from the inception planning stage right through to construction and completion of projects and play a vital role in the successful delivery of key developments, including the award-winning North-West Multimodal Transport Hub, Weavers Cross and the new world class Belfast Grand Central Station are key infrastructure regeneration projects, delivering both spatial and social regeneration, as well as encouraging and enabling a modal shift away from private cars as a primary means of travel.

Apprenticeship Routes

As an Apprentice you will be employed by Translink. We have opportunities available within our Telecoms and Electrical Engineering division. 

Download the Infrastructure and Projects apprenticeship booklet here.

Meet Our Apprentices

Aaron Reid

Be curious every single day, there is so much to learn, and it is important to always stay curious and be hands on.

Read more here.

Apprentice Aaron Reid

Apprentice Profiles

Minimum Criteria

Bus & Rail Engineering Apprentices

  • Aged 16 years 
  • Minimum of 5 GCSE’s at grade C or above (or equivalent qualification) including Maths and English, or be expecting to achieve these 
  • Experience of using Microsoft Office packages
  • Able to demonstrate examples of a practical hands-on approach
  • Team player with a positive attitude 
  • Committed, self-motivated and willing to respond to the needs of the Apprenticeship scheme
  • Excellent communication skills 
  • Understand how to provide an excellent customer service

Infrastructure & Projects Apprentices

  • Aged 18 years or over 
  • All applicants require a minimum of five GCSEs at Grade C or above (or equivalent qualification) including English and Maths or be expecting to receive these 
  • Proof of Qualifications will be required as well as reference of school or college
  • Applicants to self-enrol/register on courses and provide confirmation of reservation with college/university 
  • Applicants must have experience of using Microsoft Office packages
  • Able to demonstrate examples of a practical hands-on approach
  • Team player with a positive attitude
  • Committed, self-motivated and willing to respond to the needs of the Apprenticeship scheme
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Understand how to provide an excellent customer service

Recruitment Process

  1. Online application form
  2. Online aptitude tests
  3. Interview
  4. Pre-employment reference and medical checks (if successful)

Why should you apply to our Apprenticeship Scheme?

Pension Scheme
Attractive NILGOSC Pension Scheme.
Career Progression
Career progression and personal development.
Employee Benefits
Opportunity to join Employee Benefits Scheme offering you discounts from local retailers and service providers including restaurants, gym membership, hotels, cinemas etc.
Gain Experience
Gain experience and a professionally accredited qualification at the same time at no monetary cost to you!
Annual Leave & Public Holidays

Minimum of 26 days annual leave and set public holidays (pro rata).

Training
Practical on-the-job training.
Training Salary
Receive a weekly training salary.