Mechanical Engineering Apprenticeship
As a leading port operator, Forth Ports employs over 1,200 people in ports across the UK.
We are now looking for the new generation of engineers to start their career through our apprenticeship programme. This programme will provide a blended learning approach involving on-the-job training and college-based studies, adding value by combining education with practical experience.
You will need to really enjoy all things engineering related. You must be keen to learn and be able to demonstrate your motivation to attain your apprenticeship qualifications.
About the role
What will I learn?
You will build your technical and practical skills working alongside our experienced Engineering Team whilst also developing your academic knowledge through college based studies.
Year 1 – You will attend college on a full time basis to attain Performing Engineering Operations (Level 2) and your National Certificate in Mechanical Engineering.
Years 2 to 4 – Working onsite with our Mechanical Engineering Team, you will also attend College on a day release basis to attain your SVQ Level 3 in Mechanical Maintenance and HNC in Mechanical Engineering.
What do I need?
You will have a head start if you have already completed a Foundation Apprenticeship in a related field.
·A minimum of three National 5 qualifications including Maths (A-C), Physics or Chemistry (A-C) or a Technical subject (A-C).
·You must be comfortable working in an outdoors environment in all weathers, at height and in confined spaces, always demonstrating a full commitment to your health and safety responsibilities.
What can Forth Ports offer me?
Full support throughout the apprenticeship programme
A varied and inclusive working environment that will enable you reach your full potential
Excellent career development opportunities
A structured learning and education pathway linked to your personal development
Competitive staring salary with annual salary reviews
Generous annual leave entitlement
Interested?
Check us out on Twitter (@forthports), Facebook (@forthportscommunity), Instagram (@workingatforthports) and LinkedIn (Forth Ports Limited)
The Selection Process
Following a screening and shortlisting process, successful candidates will be invited to attend an Assessment Centre on Friday 5 May 2023. This will involve undertaking comprehension tests and practical exercises to establish your engineering skills. This will be followed by an interview and a tour of the Port.
What you will need
Required criteria
- Right to work in the UK
- A minimum of three National 5 qualifications including Maths (A-C), Physics or Chemistry (A-C) or a Technical subject (A-C).
- Comfortable working in an outdoors environment in all weathers, at height and in confined spaces
Desired criteria
- A Foundation Apprenticeship in a related field
Forth Ports Group

Over our 50 years of experience we have witnessed our ports grow to become important assets to support and deliver growth both for the UK and local economies. The growth impact has been achieved due to the continued investments in our infrastructure, making sure that our ports are able to continually develop their services and support the growth of many industries. Our people have played a significant role. They have delivered the highest quality of service through their expertise, loyalty and flexibility and, without them, we could not have built the strong reputation and the long term agreements with many customers that we have today.

Welcome to Forth Ports Careers. As a leading port operator, we employ over 1,100 people across our ports in Scotland and the Port of Tilbury in London. A career in a port business is very rewarding. There is real variety within each role and significant opportunities for promotion and career development. Don’t just take our word for it; view the “Some of our People” section and the video below to gain insight into the kinds of jobs our employees do, how they’ve grown with us, and what motivates them each day. The port business can be seen as a barometer for the economy and this drives us to be adaptable and fast paced as we identify new business opportunities.
Our benefits
We are committed to creating a positive working culture for all employees, as well as a good work-life balance. Here are just some of the benefits of working for Forth Ports.
Vacation, Paid time off
Paid sick days
Retirement plan and/or pension
Employee discounts
Gym membership or wellness programs
Cycle to work
Competitive salary
Employee Assistance Scheme
