Our Engineers focus on the assets that form the foundation of our transport system. The emphasis of our scheme is on developing world-class mechanical engineers who seek to become the senior engineers, subject matter experts and leaders of the future.
The role
Your work will include finding solutions to meaningful problems, spanning multiple transport modes. You will collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams from across TfL and with customers, local government, and the supply chain to deliver city-defining programmes and cutting-edge technology. Some current works include:
- Piccadilly Line Upgrade – Transforming the existing signalling system and procuring a new fleet of modern trains.
- Step-Free Access – Improving accessibility across the Tube and Overground networks by making more stations step-free.
- Bus Electrification – Enabling greener, cleaner travel by upgrading existing buses to zero tailpipe emissions
- New Station Construction – primarily on London Overground, delivering improved network capacity by rail
Sustainability
Sustainability is intrinsic to TfL’s work ethos, and we ensure that we operate in a sustainable way to protect and regenerate the natural world. You will play a part in transforming the most recognised transport network in the world and helping us to deliver our ambition of creating a greener, healthier, and more prosperous city.
What will I be doing?
Your one-year development programme will be made up three to four placement rotations that you will choose from across the business, and you will receive all the training and support needed to succeed in your role.
Our aim is to equip you with the range of skills and experience that you need for a successful engineering career. We will also support your route to gaining Chartered Engineer status with the IMechE, and your selection of a permanent role within the TfL Engineering Directorate.
Everyone’s career is different, so every journey is unique, but here’s an example of what your year could look like:
- Placement 1 - Rolling Stock Enhancements – 3 months
You could work on a major train upgrade project, undertaking 3D Computer-Aided Design, and developing, testing and implementing solutions on our vehicles.
- Placement 2 – Track Engineering – 3 months
You could be trialling new technologies to help us catch faults early, carrying out risk simulations, track inspections and reviewing new track layouts. There would be opportunities to be involved with track maintenance work which often occurs at night
- Placement 3 – Lifts and Escalators Engineering – 3 months
You could learn about safety standards, implementing technology updates and reviewing system designs to best create a more accessible network for our customers.
- Placement 4 – Depot Operational Engineering – 3 months
Based at one of our train maintenance depots, you could learn how to apply root-cause analysis, carry out hands-on maintenance inspections and implement upgrades generated by the rolling stock design team.
Where can this career take me?
Our mechanical engineers have the chance to create a huge impact. A career with us will be varied and exciting, with opportunities across TfL Engineering.
During this internship, you will gain meaningful and valuable work experience which will support you in your ongoing career journey towards becoming a fully qualified Chartered Engineer. At the end of your placement, you may have the opportunity to be considered for graduate position through our fast-track process.
What training and support will you get?
Our award-winning teams will support your ongoing development, through a wide range of on-the-job practical experience and placements. We'll support your professional development through a combination of training, mentoring, and networking.
You'll also receive one-to-one guidance throughout the programme from your:
- Placement manager: Responsible for your day-to-day management and support with your development
- Scheme sponsor: A senior manager who acts as a technical and professional adviser and has line manager responsibility
- Buddy: Usually a second-year graduate who gives support to you and ensures that you feel welcomed in the organisation
- Chartered IMechE mentor: Supports your professional development through providing career coaching and mentoring towards chartership
What do we look for?
Our core values are extremely important to us, and we desire candidates who are:
- Caring about our colleagues, our customers and our work
- Open to each other, to new ideas and to working together
- Adaptable to diverse needs and willing to innovate
Assessment process
The application process consists of 5 steps, including online assessments which will need to be completed within an allocated time frame. We highly recommend that you read through this document thoroughly so that you can familiarise yourself with the process.
What we offer
You will enjoy excellent benefits and scope to grow. Rewards include:
- Free travel on the TfL network for you and a nominee who lives in the same household
- Discounted national rail and Eurostar travel
- Minimum 28 days Annual leave (Pro rata dependent on role) plus public and bank holidays.
- Tax-efficient cycle-to-work programme
- Retail, health, leisure and travel offers & many more
Entry requirements
You’ll need to be in your penultimate year of MEng or MSc degree in Mechanical Engineering or an equivalent subject and on track to receive a minimum of 2:2. Your academic qualification must be accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE).
Please be advised that should you be successful in getting an offer for this scheme, your offer will be subject to a satisfactory medical.
Start date: 8th September 2025