2026 Geotechnical Engineer: Civil Engineering Apprenticeship

We're looking for bright and motivated individuals who will bring energy, new ideas and a fresh perspective to help us become the recognised leader and transform the construction and engineering industry.     

 

Role Overview  

Expanded Piling is a member of the Laing O'Rourke construction group. We are a leading specialist Piling contractor involved in the UK ground engineering industry. Our involvement in delivery of the most prestigious and complex projects demands that we design and install a broad range of best value foundation solutions for our clients. Key to achieving our strategy for continued profitable growth is investing in our geotechnical team. We have opportunities for ambitious geotechnical engineer's keen to join an energetic, stimulating and rewarding environment.  

They will work within the geotechnical engineering team under the guidance of design and project Engineers, alongside site supervisors and managers.  

We are looking for high calibre candidates with ambition, enthusiasm and drive to make an impact. You must have strong technical acumen coupled with a positive interest in engineering & geology. You will also have a professional approach and a keen eye for detail; excellent communication and IT skills are also vital for the role.  

Our apprentices are given the opportunity to gain a broad experience within our business. The role will involve a period in one of our design/work winning teams, which are located at our main regional offices. Plus, a period in project management with our operation team, which will be project based.  

 

Key Deliverables and Accountabilities of a Geotechnical Technician Engineer   

• To be an active & contributory member during their periods in the design/work winning & operation teams.  

• To understand and deliver the client's requirements and liaise with designers/client/ main contractors to optimize the best engineering solution.  

• Ensure the appropriate selection of piling technique is chosen to suit the project ground conditions.  

• To undertake geotechnical analysis/design using in-house and commercially available software in accordance with the relevant codes of practice and prepare detailed geotechnical design reports for submittal to clients and respond to technical queries raised during the approval process.  

• To cost, budget, tender, negotiate and secure orders for a variety of such systems, whilst maximising the business profits.  

• Preparation of settlement packs for review by the business at settlement meetings.  

• Preparation of contract design documents, drawings and schedules.  

• To design with awareness of risk including, H&S, geotechnical and commercial aspects.  

• To liaise and provide design support to the operation team during the installation phase to ensure correct design is fully implemented.  

• To produce as built documentation post construction.  

• Develop long lasting relationships with clients to encourage repeat business.  

• Co-ordinating and responding to client's requests by gaining experience from colleagues.  

• Collaborative working with other LOR business units to achieve shared end goals.  

• To continue your professional development.  

 

Location    

Dartford Head Office - to start  

 

Apprenticeship Level and Standard   

Level 4 apprenticeship, 36 months,  Civil engineering senior technician / Skills England 

 

Entry Requirements 

To be considered applicants must be on track to achieve either:  

• 4 GCSEs at C/4+, including Maths & English  

• 3 A Level's working towards or achieved grades of ABB (128 UCAS points). A Levels must include Maths and a Science Subject (preferably Physics)  

• BTEC Extended Diploma in a construction related subject (Engineering, Civil Engineering, Construction and Built Environment etc) working towards or achieved grades of DMM. Modules studied must include ‘Further Engineering Mathematics' and preferably ‘Calculus to solve Engineering problems'  

• IB Math's HL5 and another science subject HL5    

• T level in Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing – Distinction  

We are also looking for candidates who:    

• Have strong numeracy and literacy skills    

• are flexible as you may be required to work away        

• Are eligible to work in the UK .  This role is not eligible for sponsorship 

 

Our Application Process    

We are committed to providing a clear and supportive recruitment journey. Here is what you can expect when applying for one of our apprentice opportunities:    

• CV Submission  
  Submit your CV for review. We will assess your application against the entry criteria for the role you are applying for.  

• Online Assessment  
  You will complete a series of assessments designed to understand how you approach workplace situations, your preferred ways of working, as well as exercises to evaluate your critical thinking and numerical reasoning skills.  

• Video Interview  
  At this stage, you will be invited to record responses to two questions set by our hiring team. You will have sufficient time to prepare and ensure you present yourself confidently.  

• Assessment Centre  
  Our in-person assessment centres, held at a LOR office, provide an opportunity for you to demonstrate your skills through a combination of individual tasks, short interviews, and group activities. This is also a chance to experience our culture first-hand.  

• Outcome  
  We aim to provide feedback and communicate the outcome of your assessment centre within two weeks.  

 

Application Deadline  

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and we may close a role once enough candidates have applied. We encourage all applicants to apply as early as possible so you don't miss the opportunity to be considered.  

 

Accessibility and Support   

We are committed to ensuring our recruitment process is inclusive and accessible to all candidates. If you require any adjustments or support with your application, or at any stage of the process, please do not hesitate to contact us.  

 **The Professional Apprenticeship Programme will commence in September 2026**