Geoscientist Apprentice

Based out of the Nottingham office, this Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship focuses on assessing ground conditions and identifying geohazards to maintain safe UK rail infrastructure.

Job Description

We are seeking an enthusiastic and motivated Geoscientist Apprentice to join our Rail team in Nottingham.

As an apprentice, you’ll develop hands-on skills across a wide range of geoscience, geotechnical, and rail-related survey projects that support safe, sustainable, and resilient rail infrastructure across the UK. You’ll work alongside geologists, geophysicists, surveyors, and engineers, gaining experience from data collection through to interpretation and reporting.

Our team plays a vital role in assessing ground conditions, supporting design decisions, and enabling projects to be delivered efficiently and safely. You’ll be part of a collaborative and innovative environment where your work contributes directly to the development and maintenance of critical national rail assets.

As an apprentice, you will:

• Support ground investigations and geoscience surveys, including collecting geological, geophysical, and geotechnical data.

• Assist in interpreting data to understand ground conditions and identify potential geohazards.

• Learn to use field equipment and digital tools for mapping, modelling, and analysis.

• Help prepare technical reports, drawings, and documentation for both internal teams and clients.

• Participate in site visits, inspections, and data-gathering activities across various rail locations.

• Work collaboratively with survey, rail, and engineering disciplines to support integrated project delivery.

• Contribute to sustainability and safety initiatives throughout project lifecycles.

• Work towards academic and professional development through the Keele University Geoscientist Degree Apprenticeship, leading to recognised professional accreditation.

Qualifications

This role is ideal for school leavers (GCSE or A-Level) who can demonstrate the following:

• A minimum of 5 GCSEs (or equivalent) at grade C/4 or above, including Maths, English, and a science subject.

• Three A-Levels (or equivalent) at grade C or above, preferably including a science subject such as Geology, Geography, Physics, Chemistry, or Maths (required for Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship).

• A genuine interest in geology, earth sciences, rail infrastructure, or environmental/ground investigation work.

• Some experience, work shadowing, or exposure to fieldwork, environmental, or construction settings (preferred).

• An interest in digital tools, mapping software, or data analysis techniques.

• Strong attention to detail, organisation, and communication skills.

• A practical, curious, and problem-solving mindset.

• Ability to work well both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously.

About AECOM

AECOM is the world’s trusted infrastructure consulting firm, delivering professional services throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. On projects spanning transportation, buildings, water, new energy and the environment, our public- and private-sector clients trust us to solve their most complex challenges.

Our teams are driven by a common purpose to deliver a better world through our unrivaled technical and digital expertise, a culture of equity, diversity and inclusion, and a commitment to environmental, social and governance priorities.