Civil Engineering Graduate Apprentice

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October 7, 2026

Civil Engineering Graduate Apprentice – Westhill, Aberdeenshire – Full Time, Fixed-Term

Nicol of Skene, a leading Civil Engineering, Horizontal Directional Drilling & Multi-Utility Contractor, is seeking a Civil Engineering Graduate Apprentice to join our growing team.

This is an opportunity to begin a career in civil engineering while combining practical workplace experience with study towards a BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering through the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI).

You will work alongside our experienced engineering and operations teams, gaining experience in the planning, coordination and delivery of civil engineering and multi-utility projects. As your skills develop, you will take on increasing responsibility, supported by experienced colleagues and a workplace mentor.

The four-year Graduate Apprenticeship combines workplace learning with online teaching and block-release attendance at UHI Inverness.

• Assist our engineering and operational teams with the planning and delivery of projects
• Support site surveying, setting out and the recording of accurate site information
• Assist with preparing and interpreting drawings, specifications and engineering information
• Help maintain project records, site reports and as-built information
• Support the coordination of labour, plant, materials and subcontractors
• Assist with monitoring progress, checking quality and identifying practical solutions to site challenges
• Work with colleagues across Operations, Commercial and QHSE to support project delivery
• Follow company procedures and promote a strong Health & Safety culture
• Complete university coursework, assessments and work-based learning requirements with support from your workplace mentor

• Contract Type – Full-time, Fixed-Term
• Hours of work – 7.00am to 5.00pm, Monday to Friday
• Hours per week – 47.5 hours
• Supported study and block-release attendance as required by the university programme

• Competitive salary
• Private Healthcare
• Company Pension Scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Supported study towards a BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering
• Funded university tuition, subject to eligibility
• Workplace mentoring and ongoing training and development
• Practical experience across a range of projects
• Supportive working environment

Employment & Study Start Dates:
The apprenticeship programme is scheduled to commence in August/September 2027. We are currently recruiting and can offer an immediate employment start to successful candidates. We are also happy to consider later start dates for applicants who are still completing S4, S5 or S6.

• Three Scottish Highers at grades BBC or above, including Maths and one other STEM subject; or
• Two A Levels at grades BC or above, in Maths and one other STEM subject; or
• NC Civil Engineering; or
• Foundation Apprenticeship in Civil Engineering

Applicants with a relevant Civil Engineering HNC, HND or other higher qualification may be eligible for advanced entry, subject to UHI's assessment of their qualifications and relevant experience.

Appointment to the Graduate Apprenticeship is subject to acceptance onto the UHI programme and confirmation of funding eligibility.

• Genuine interest in civil engineering and the construction industry
• Good mathematical, analytical and problem-solving skills
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office
• Good organisational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and follow instructions
• Willingness to learn, ask questions and take on responsibility
• Proactive approach with a positive, can-do attitude
• Willingness to work in both office and site environments
• Ability to attend university teaching blocks at UHI Inverness

Previous industry experience is not essential, as full training will be provided.

While we welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates, Nicol of Skene Ltd is currently unable to provide visa sponsorship. Therefore, applicants must have the unrestricted Right to Work in the UK to be considered for this position.

Nicol of Skene is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to fostering an inclusive environment for all employees.

We value teamwork, quality and continuous improvement and are always looking for talented people to support our continued growth.