Opportunity information

Salary £19750 per year
Duration 36 months
Advert closing date 10/07/2026

Description

Sandberg is a civil engineering consultancy with a particular focus on construction materials. We are currently seeking a Technician to assist our departments in undertaking testing and inspection work. The role would be based in our labs at Clapham and includes some site work in London and the UK.

The role will be split between site work and work in our offices at Clapham. Your involvement in the first year will be with our Metallurgy and Steelwork Inspection departments, from there you will spend time in each of our other departments including the Construction Materials, Building Inspection and Investigation departments and Geology. In all cases full training will be given and the level of involvement in the different areas will grow as training and competence develops. In addition to building on general laboratory techniques, you will learn to perform specific tests along with sample preparation techniques, mechanical testing and measurement of properties. Additionally, there will be site based work where you will develop inspection techniques, gain experience in further testing types as well as the practicalities of site testing and taking site notes.

Lab Based

Preparation of samples from bulk materials to sample ready for testing

Undertaking testing such as strength, compression

Use of general workshop machines including saws, drills, coring rigs and linishers

Assisting with project investigations

Site Based

Load testing especially on barriers (making sure barriers are safe)

Coating and corrosion inspection especially of steel members

Coring and taking of concrete dust samples

Site testing including carbonation testing (chemical testing of concrete)

Support consultants, inspectors and technicians in recording site information, locations and details of issues

The role will give you real insight into the use of materials within construction, and the issues that can arise. This is an initial apprentice position, and it is expected that with Sandberg support and encouragement, you will be willing and able to move into a permanent role following this.

Entry requirements

You will be hands-on and willing to learn. A lot of what we do means getting your hands dirty, often literally. You will likely have an interest in engineering and materials. As you develop you will be dealing with Sandberg clients and must therefore be presentable, personable, a good communicator and have a good command of English, both written and spoken. You will have a good level of competence in the use of Microsoft Windows, Outlook, Word and Excel. We will support you throughout to develop your skills and knowledge. It would be of significant benefit to have or be working towards a full UK driving license.

• You will hold 5 GCSEs grades 9-5 /A*-B including English and 6/B in Maths
• You will have a good level of competence in the use of Microsoft Windows, Outlook, Word and Excel.
• Experience with or desire to gain experience of mechanical equipment, drilling, machining and welding
• Willing and able to work at height and in confined spaces
• Capable of safely accessing all appropriate areas of a typical construction site (e.g., using ladders)
• A lot of what Sandburg do means getting your hands dirty, often literally.
• You will likely have an interest in engineering and materials.
• As you develop you will be dealing with Sandberg clients and must therefore be presentable, personable, a good communicator and have a good command of English, both written and spoken

Please note the college are aware of the use of AI tools in job applications, please ensure your application is individualised and reflective of you, your skills and passion for the opportunity.

Training to be provided

You will attend South Thames College for your off the job training.

Apprentice will develop the necessary Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours to be a competent Civil Engineer

Knowledge

• The different techniques and methods used to design, build and maintain civil engineering projects
• The appropriate scientific, technical and engineering principles relating to the design, delivery and maintenance of infrastructure and buildings
• How to work effectively and contribute to engineering solutions by the correct use of resources and time
• How to communicate effectively using a range of techniques
• The code of conduct of relevant professional bodies and institutions including ethics and their application in design and delivery of projects
• Safe working practices and how to comply with them
• Sustainable development and their own contribution to economic, environmental and social wellbeing.
• Sources of and approaches to Continuing Professional Development

Skills

• Select and use appropriate scientific, technical and engineering principles, techniques and methods to contribute to the design and delivery of infrastructure and building projects
• Work with others to contribute to produce integrated engineering solutions by the correct use of resources and time
• Manage and maintain the quality of their own work and that of others
• Communicate effectively and appropriately with others using a range of techniques
• Keep themselves and others safe by adhering to safe working practices.
• Maintain their own skills base and learning

Behaviours

• Take a responsible approach to health and safety
• Be professional, proactive and receptive to constructive advice and guidance
• Be willing to learn new skills and to adapt in the light of experience
• Know one's limitations and when to ask for help or escalate
• Work independently when appropriate and take responsibility for and pride in their work
• Demonstrate a positive approach to problem solving
• Effectively contribute to discussions as part of a team

Things to consider

Our Apprenticeship scheme provides a perfect way to earn a wage while you gain vital work experience and a nationally recognised qualification. You will be fully supported and mentored through your apprenticeship and be given protected time to complete your course work.

Start building your future with an apprenticeship, and the sky’s the limit.

Skills required

Array

Future prospects

On completion you will receive a national qualification and will have satisfied the requirements for registration as an Engineering Technician by the relevant professional engineering institution in accordance with the requirements of the Engineering Council as the registration body.
A number of Apprentices who have completed this apprenticeship with South Thames College have progressed onto the Higher and Degree Apprenticeships

Hours per week 36
Working week Monday - Thursday (8am - 4pm), Friday (8am - 3:30pm) Each day 30 minute unpaid lunch break
Apprenticeship standard Civil engineering technician (Level 3)

London, Greater London, United Kingdom, SW4 7TD