Apprentice and Graduate opportunities

First Bus is a launch pad for amazing careers

Whether you are looking for an Apprenticeship programme that will lead to nationally recognised qualifications in the transport technologies of the future, or a graduate position where you will have an insight into our operations and play a vital role in our future ambitions, your first step to a future career is with First Bus.

We offer structured training for real qualifications, 'on-the-job' experience, and a clear career path to help you reach your full potential.

Register your interest today!

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Apprentices

Our apprentices develop the skills, knowledge and behaviours to fulfil their role and many continue onto senior positions within the business. The apprenticeship is just the start as you can grow your career and get a recognised qualification within the dynamic transport industry. We have three Apprenticeship programmes:

  • Level 2 Trade Supply (1 year in duration) in England and Wales
  • Level 3 Mechanical Technician (3 years in duration) in England, Scotland and Wales
  • Level 3 Coachbuilder (3 years in duration) in England and Scotland
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Graduates

Join us on one of our Graduate Programmes where you will have the opportunity to make a real difference.

Whether you want to work within the fast-paced operational depot environment, or to be part of the development of our transformational business strategy, you’ll be learning something brand new every day. We are currently not open for applications, but if you are interested in joining us as a graduate in the future, please register your interest above.

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Frequently Asked Questions

An apprenticeship is a great way to learn a new skill, gain valuable experience and earn a wage. Alongside on-the-job training, apprentices spend at least 20% of their working hours completing learning with a college which leads to a nationally recognised qualification.  

An apprenticeship includes:  

  • Paid employment  
  • Hand-on practical experience 
  • At least 20% off-the-job training with a college/ training provider 
  • Formal assessment which successful completion leads to a recognised qualification 

To find out more about apprenticeships, click here 

First Bus is a real living wage employer: Engineering Apprentices are paid weekly- your hourly rate will be at least £12 per hour from 1st April 2025. Please see individual role advertisements for local rates and for more information. 

We have three apprenticeships available across Engineering including: 

  • Level 2 Trade Supply (1 year in duration) in England and Wales
  • Level 3 Mechanical Technician (3 years in duration) in England, Scotland and Wales
  • Level 3 Coachbuilder (3 years in duration) in England and Scotland

  • Evidence of predicted or achieved Level 4 at Maths and English GCSE, Scotland National 5's equivalent or Functional Skills Level
  • You will need to have lived in the UK/EEA for at least 3 years prior to starting in August 2025
  • Good communication, problem solving and listening skills
  • A passion for engineering or working in the transport industry
  • Right to work in the UK for the duration of your apprenticeship

  • Level 2 Trade Supply is one year in length, with End Point Assessment being another 3-6 months
  • Level 3 Mechanical Technician is three years in length, with End Point Assessment being another 3- 6 months
  • Level 3 Coachbuilder is three years in length, with End Point Assessment being another 3-6 months

For our Engineering Apprenticeships we only have one application window, and one start date each calendar year. The application window opens in late February 2025. The start date will be 27th August 2025. If you register your interest, we will be in touch with you as soon as the application window opens.

First Bus will fund your apprenticeship, including your accommodation, travel and food whilst at college. You as an individual will pick up none of the costs.

We partner with Reaseheath College to deliver the training for Level 2 Trade Supply, Level 3 Mechanical Technician (England and Wales) and Level 3 Coachbuilder (England and Wales). We partner with Glasgow Training Group in Scotland to deliver the training for Level 3 Mechanical Technician, and Level 3 Coachbuilder for our Scotland apprentices.

Our apprentices develop the skills, knowledge and behaviours to fulfil their role, and many continue onto senior positions within the business. The apprenticeship is just the start as you can grow your career and get a recognised qualification within the dynamic transport industry. It is the opportunity to earn-and-learn, so if you are a school leaver wanting to start your career or you want to take the first step in changing your career, an apprenticeship is the perfect route for you.