About Fairhurst LLP – Fairhurst LLP is one of the UK’s largest private multidisciplinary partnerships of consulting engineers, delivering civil, structural, geotechnical, environmental, transportation, planning, water, and landscape architecture services across 16 principal offices in the UK. Fairhurst specialises in providing cost‑effective, sustainable engineering solutions and prides itself on high-quality service delivery, technical excellence, and long-standing client relationships.
Role Overview – We are seeking a Graduate Apprentice (Structures) to join the Fairhurst Structures team. This is an excellent opportunity to kick‑start your career in structural engineering within a supportive and professional environment, working under the guidance of experienced directors, technical managers, engineers and technicians.
As you develop and gain experience, you will be involved in a range of projects and work with a variety of clients across sectors. The Graduate Apprenticeship programme combines structured academic study, through UHI, with practical workplace learning and training, providing a clear pathway towards a recognised engineering degree and professional qualification.
Throughout the programme, you will undertake a supervised training plan and block‑release study while developing the technical, professional and behavioural competencies expected of a future structural engineer.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Design & Technical Delivery
- Assist structural engineers with the delivery of structural design work for a range of building and infrastructure projects.
- Support the production of engineering drawings, calculations, specifications and technical reports.
- Produce and modify 2D and 3D drawings using appropriate computer software.
- Assist with the preparation of structural models and checks under supervision.
- Contribute to developing practical solutions to engineering design problems.
- Carry out initial checks of your own work prior to review.
Project Management
- Support the delivery of project tasks in line with agreed programmes and deadlines.
- Assist with the organisation and administration of project information and documentation.
- Learn to manage workload across multiple tasks and projects with appropriate guidance.
- Attend project meetings where appropriate to understand programme and delivery requirements.
Client & Stakeholder Engagement
- Support senior team members in communicating technical information to clients and stakeholders.
- Attend external meetings, site visits and inspections to gain exposure to project delivery.
- Develop professional communication skills through written and verbal interactions.
Quality & Compliance
- Work in accordance with Fairhurst’s quality management systems and procedures.
- Assist in the preparation and checking of health & safety and design risk documentation.
- Develop an understanding of relevant standards, codes of practice and regulations.
- Maintain accurate records, including training logs and project documentation.
Leadership & Mentoring
- Work closely with your appointed mentor as part of your day‑to‑day development.
- Actively engage in training, CPD activities, workshops and company initiatives.
- Demonstrate professionalism, accountability and a willingness to learn.
- Contribute positively to team culture and collaborative working.
QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE
Qualifications
- One pass at National 5 level English.
- One pass at National 5 level Mathematics.
- Higher level pass (C or above) in Mathematics or Physics would be beneficial but not essential.
- National 5 pass in Design‑related or creative subjects (e.g. Graphic Design, Art or similar) would be advantageous but not essential.
- Eligibility for, or enrolment on, a Graduate Apprenticeship in Civil or Structural Engineering.
Skills & Attributes
Technical & Professional Skills
- Good numerical and mathematical skills.
- Good literacy and written communication skills.
- Competent computing skills with an interest in engineering software.
- Interest in using computers for structural design, calculations and problem solving.
- Ability to produce neat, accurate technical drawings and documentation.
- Methodical approach to design, planning and organisation.
Personal Attributes
You should be able to demonstrate that you are:
- Enthusiastic and motivated to develop a career in structural engineering.
- Willing to learn and committed to achieving a professional qualification.
- Reliable, punctual and self‑motivated.
- Adaptable and able to manage your own time during busy periods.
- A team player who works well with others.
- Confident in presenting and explaining your design thought processes under supervision.
- Professional and well presented, acting as an ambassador for Fairhurst.
Alignment with Fairhurst Values
- Excellence: Committed to delivering high‑quality, technically robust work.
- Lasting Relationships: Builds trust with colleagues, clients, and partners.
- Pure Thought: Applies clear, transparent reasoning and maintains professional integrity.
- Continuous Development: Engages in continual learning and development for personal and organisational growth.
What we offer you
- A collaborative, partner‑led environment with access to multidisciplinary expertise.
- Career and professional development and opportunities on high‑profile projects.
- Competitive salary and benefits, aligned to experience and location.
- A culture built on responsiveness, flexibility, and sustainable, value‑adding engineering.
- Competitive salary and excellent flexible benefits package
- Contributory pension, personal health care plan and life insurance
- 33 days annual leave (inclusive of Public Holidays) including annual leave purchase and buy-back scheme
- Bonus Schemes including loyalty bonus and qualifications award
- Interest-free travel loan
You can learn more about our staff benefits here.
ETHOS
We, at Fairhurst, know that progress within the industry is all about people. That’s why we’re working together to build a better, more inclusive and diverse future for engineers and the engineering industry.
We are committed to providing a workplace that is respectful, fair and inclusive for all employees. We recognise the value of different perspectives and backgrounds, and we are committed to creating an environment where everyone can contribute and succeed.
Please submit your CV and cover letter to recruitment@fairhurst.co.uk stating the role and office you are applying to. For more information on Fairhurst please visit our website.
