Find out more about what to expect from the application and selection process, hints and tips for writing your CV and attending an interview and read some of the most commonly asked questions about the recruitment process.
We are looking for apprentices who meet the following criteria:
Entry grades will be listed in each of our apprenticeship vacancies and they will differ from role to role.
A willingness to work away from home during study periods (where applicable) and as your work requires.
Our selection process is broken down into manageable stages and is designed to give you an opportunity to find out if Laing O'Rourke is the right company for you as well as giving us the opportunity to select the very best apprentices.
Step 1
Apply online
Complete the online application form and upload a copy of your CV and covering letter
Step 2
Shortlist
The most suitable application will be added to a shortlist. Unsuccessful candidates will be notified by email.
Step 3
Telephone/Video interview
You will be invited to a telephone or video interview which will be held by our hiring team.
Step 4
Assessment centre
Depending on which role you have applied for, if successful at telephone/video interview, you will be invited to attend a half-day assessment centre. You will have plenty of time to prepare. The safety of our people, and of our candidates is our priority and in the current climate, we may alter the format of our assessment centre; either replacing it with a virtual event or where it is safe to do so, and in line with government and health authority guidance, host a socially distanced, covid-secure session.
Step 5
Offer of employment
Successful candidates will receive a written, formal offer of employment.
Step 6
COMPLETE ONBOARDING INFORMATION
This is where you complete all the required paperwork which includes your personal details, including shoe and jacket size so we can sort out your personal protective equipment (PPE) before you join us; asks you to sign your apprenticeship agreement, enrol on your Health & Safety touchscreen test (CSCS), and you will also be asked to complete a medical questionnaire.
Step 7
First day at work
Welcome to Laing O'Rourke!
A successful application begins with an exciting CV and ends with an engaging interview. Here we provide some quick tips for job applicants to help you make the most of your strengths and ensure you stand out from the competition.
The CV is your first opportunity to make an impression on a potential employer. So it is important that it provides the best possible showcase for your achievements.
It should be easy to read, using clear fonts, bullet points and concise language.
Spell-check your CV and ask someone to proof read it for you.
Preparation is the key to any successful interview. Interviews can be a stressful occasion but try not to let your nerves get the better of you. Remember: we want to meet you, find out more about you and give you the chance to tell us why you are the right person for the job.
Preparing for Interview
Check when and where your interview is. Make sure you know how to get there and allow time for potential travel delays.
Take some time to research our business and the industry.
Review your CV before your interview. Your interviewer will have it with them and will ask you questions about your experience and education
Think about your strengths and weaknesses, achievements and aspirations - and be ready to discuss them.
Be prepared to explain why you are interested in the role and why you believe you are suited to it.
Take time to think about the questions you would like to ask. Write them down and don't be afraid to bring them up with your interviewer.
On the day
Dress appropriately for the environment.
Maintain eye contact, confidence and energy levels throughout.
Engage with the interviewer and respond positively to their questions.
If you can reflect on your development so far, talk about what you have learnt and explain if there is anything you would have done differently, this will be viewed in a positive light.
Listen carefully to questions and think about your answers. If you don’t understand a question, ask your interviewer to explain it.
Keep your answers concise and relevant.
Refer to specific examples where you can demonstrate your knowledge and experience
When will I receive feedback from my application?
You will receive feedback within 30 days of submitting your CV.
Can I update my CV on your system?
Yes, you can log into your account via laingorourke.com/careers to edit or upload new information.
I have entered the wrong contact details on your system how do I change them?
You can log into your account via laingorourke.com/careers to edit your information.
Do you show a preference to internal applicants?
Laing O'Rourke recognises the importance of promoting within and giving opportunity to employees. It is in our best interest to recruit outstanding talent and the candidate, whether internal or external who is most suited will be offered a position.
Who do I contact if I have a question about a vacancy?
Please email queries to [email protected]
Who will contact me regarding my interview?
Should you be invited to attend an interview then the hiring team or a member of the early talent team will contact you directly.
I have a disability, should I declare it?
At the application stage, we ask candidates to indicate if they consider themselves to have a disability so we can ensure adjustments are made to support you during the recruitment process. Any conversations we have with you regarding your disability will be treated with confidentiality. For further information we also recommend that you visit www.greatwithdisability.com
I wasn't invited to the next stage of the recruitment process - can I get feedback on my application?
We encourage all applicants to request feedback if their application is unsuccessful following a video interview or assessment centre. We believe feedback is an important part of the recruitment process and will help you in your further search for a suitable role, should this not be with Laing O'Rourke. If your application doesn't proceed following your video interview or assessment centre, we will give you personal feedback over the phone. When we inform you of the outcome, we will provide details of how to organise this feedback.
What are the typical hours in a working week?
There's no typical week at Laing O'Rourke. Your contractual hours of 40 hours per week will vary according to the work or project in which you're involved, and you will need to be flexible. The majority of our projects operate Monday to Friday; however, there may be some weekend work, particularly during busy periods. We encourage teams at all levels to work flexibly and to discuss and negotiate how to meet the demands of each project. By communicating regularly with your team and supervisor, you'll be able to understand their expectations and plan your time effectively.
What do people wear at Laing O'Rourke?
Our office dress policy is business attire/wear. However, when on site you will need to dress appropriately for the project (wearing trousers and suitable shoes) and taking the weather into account. A large amount of your time could be spent outdoors. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is provided and will be supplied to you when you join us. Before you start working with us, we will match you up with a buddy who will help you get started before your first day and during your first few weeks. They can help you with any other questions similar to this.
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