London Underground Power - Level 4

Keep the Tube network running safely and learn how to operate complex components in our Power Division.

Fun Fact

In the heart of Greenwich, London Underground operates a power station! Fuelled by the energy of seven gas turbine-driven alternators. Its main mission? To swiftly re-energize the London Underground network in the face of a significant national grid failure, ensuring a safe evacuation for passengers stuck in tunnels. This is not just a power station; it's a lifeline, ready to spark into action and illuminate the way to safety.

Apprenticeship Standard: Railway Engineering Technician Level 4

Salary

£26,961

Location

London 

Duration

4 years

What you'll need 

  • A minimum of 2 GCSEs Grade A*-C or Grade 4 and above, including Maths and English Language, plus 2 A-Levels, at grade A*-D or equivalents
  • You are not eligible for this scheme if you currently hold or undertaking the same Apprenticeship Standard
  • Please note that you will be required to provide original certificates and/or predicted grades as proof for your eligibility checks.
  • You must be 18 by 8th September 2025 to be eligible for this scheme.

Job overview

London Underground's trains and infrastructure are powered by electricity drawn from the National Grid at several Bulk Supply Points across the capital. This power is manipulated and distributed by the London Underground Power & Electrical Department through approximately 300 substations spread across 250 miles of track. In addition, electricity is distributed to and around over 1600 individual premises, including 270 London Underground stations and over 20 depot locations.

Power assets are extensive, expensive, and highly technical and must be in top condition for the Underground to run smoothly and adhere to the schedule every day and night. The electrical infrastructure and services are diverse, including over 100,000 light fittings, tens of thousands of critical and general power supplies, 500+ UPS units, and various other specialist electrical asset groups.

What you'll be doing 

During your apprenticeship, you will undergo a four-year development program consisting of placements across the Power departments. Our goal is to provide you with a diverse set of skills and experiences essential for a successful career. Recognising that each person's career path is distinct, we tailor every apprentice's journey to be unique. Here's a glimpse of what your individual trajectory might entail:

Year 1: In the initial year, you'll be adjusting to both London Underground and the field of engineering. This period will primarily involve delving into fundamental engineering principles at our partner college in Enfield. Following this phase, you will undergo comprehensive training, including all necessary track and substation safety protocols. This is to enable you to operate safely around our fleet in various sites and high voltage. 

Year 2 and Year 3: In your second year, you will actively engage in the operational side of the business, gaining practical insights from seasoned Power engineers across different specialities (Operating, High Voltage Cables, Substation or Protection). Your role will involve shadowing teams, progressively building your confidence and practical expertise. Additionally, you will be rotating across our maintenance and breakdown sections, contributing to a well-rounded understanding of our operations. As part of your second year, you will also be released to continue building on your level 4 fundamental engineering principles at our partner college in Enfield. 


During this phase, you'll develop proficiency in mechanical, electrical, and hand tool usage. Working closely with our dedicated assessor, you'll address a comprehensive range of knowledge questions integral to your qualifications.


You will also be enrolled into in house training including running a substation, continual improvement, and 
large range of technical training on our specific assets.

Year 4: As you progress into your final year, you will continue rotating through various sections with a focus on more 
specialised areas, honing your competencies through diverse methods. The qualifications encompass knowledge assessments and documentation of the practical work you undertake. Ultimately, you will present your finest work to an external engineering institute, obtaining the final endorsement that declares you as a proficient rolling stock engineer. This endorsement, coupled with the completion of your qualifications, will signify that you are ready to undertake a job interview leading to a position as a Plant Fitter or HV Cables
Fitter.

Where this career can take you 

This apprenticeship marks the beginning of your career journey, opening a world of limitless roles and opportunities. Upon completion, you'll roll off as a Plant Fitter or High Voltage cables Fitter, contributing to the efficient functioning of substations and stations. Depending on your skills and enthusiasm, you may choose to progress into more technical or specialist roles or explore opportunities in management. The pathway ahead is dynamic and filled with possibilities for your continued growth and success. You'll also have opportunities to complete additional training courses. These will vary from soft skills training, safety training to technical skills training. 

At the end of the apprenticeship, you will be at an Engineering Technician professional standard while there is no requirement this can be built upon to achieve Engineering Chartership status in the future.