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Apprentice Port Engineer

Job Summary
Contract Type:
Fixed Term
Working Pattern:
Full time
Advert Start Date:
09/02/2026
Advert End Date:
Closed for applications on 06/03/2026 23:59
Salary:
£8.78 per hour Apprenticeship wage (first year)
Hours per week:
37
Job Category:
Apprenticeships
Vacancy ID:
291532
Employment Location:
Port of Sunderland
Number of posts:
1
Closing date:
6 Mar
Further Information
These are exciting times at the Port of Sunderland, and an opportunity has arisen for a dedicated individual to join the team as Port Engineering Apprentice.
 
The Port of Sunderland handles vessels that are trading on a global basis and it is growing the business in a variety of key market segments and customer supply chains. These include steel, construction and the offshore renewable sectors. The Port estate has been chosen by several investors as the location for bespoke materials handling facilities for cement, liquid fertiliser imports and circular economy (i.e., material recovery) activity. The Port’s two Enterprise Zone sites (totalling 20 acres) will allow further opportunities for such developments enhancing port revenues.
 
As the Port Engineering Apprentice, you will form part of the Port Services and Infrastructure team, ensuring our cargo handing and marine services are able to continue delivering to our customers by keeping our plant, equipment, machinery and infrastructure up to standard and operating effectively.
 
The Port forms part of Sunderland City Council, where there is a strong commitment to apprentices and training. You will be provided with unparalleled support throughout the duration of your programme.
 
You will develop the skills you need for the job by working alongside our Port Engineer, Electrician and Welder, gaining hands on experience at the same time as working towards a Level 3 Engineering Maintenance Technician (dual discipline).
 
What you will be doing:
  • Assisting with mechanical and electrical repairs to the Port’s infrastructure, machinery and equipment.
  • Learn how to undertake electrical duties involving test and inspection, reactive
  • Learn how to install, repair or replace new, damaged or defective parts or sections of the Port infrastructure.
  • Assist in diagnosing malfunctioning systems and components. 
What we’re looking for:
  • At least four GCSEs at level 4/C or above, including Maths, English and a Science subject.
  • A passion for engineering, mechanics and electricals.
  • The ability to work as part of a small team, productive team.
  • A problem solver, able to assess the requirements of the situation and pay attention to detail.
  • Able to abide by rules and health and safety requirements.
  • Happy to work in a role which is physically demanding, working at height and in a ship’s hold, in all weather conditions. 
What we offer:
 
  • A structured apprenticeship programme with full support from a trained assessor to complete the qualification
  • A workplace and developmental mentor to provide on-going support
  • Access to numerous development opportunities
  • On-going support and encouragement from a knowledgeable and friendly team
  • A range of benefits that promote wellbeing and help you thrive - at work and in everyday life 
Come and be part of something meaningful and help shape the future of our City!
 
Please note, as part of the shortlisting process applicants will be required to pass an initial assessment in English and maths and an engineering aptitude test with the apprenticeship learning provider Sunderland Engineering Training Association (SETA).

If you are interested in this role, please refer to the job description and person specification provided. 
 
Please note – due to the nature of the work involved in this post, applicants must be 18 years of age or over to apply.
 
For an informal discussion about this post please contact Sven Richards, Port General Manager on 07733153580.  
 
Applications should be made on-line at northeastjobs.org.uk/sunderlandcitycouncil. For further assistance contact Customer Enabling Services by email: jobs@sunderland.gov.uk
 
Please note that CVs are not accepted.

Please note that all communication regarding your application for this post will be sent to the email address that you have registered online with North East Jobs, including your invitation to any online assessment you are required to undertake and your invite to interview if you are short-listed. Please check your email inbox after the closing date for notifications as you may not be notified by any other means. Please remember to check your junk mail items.
 
Please note
This job is closed for applications.
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