Early Careers at SOCOTEC UK & Ireland
At SOCOTEC, our early‑career opportunities are designed to help you develop real skills, real responsibility and real confidence from day one.
We offer a wide range of early careers opportunities designed to support young people, school leavers and graduates at the very start of their professional journey.
From your first school leaver role through to structured early career programmes, we focus on creating meaningful moments for people and shaping a safer, more sustainable world for people, where every individual is supported to grow and succeed.
With over 200 active apprentices across the UK, SOCOTEC provides a clear early careers pathway into long term employment across our technical, consultancy and professional services teams.
When you grow, we grow
Pathways Into SOCOTEC
We provide multiple entry routes and experiences depending on where you are in your education or career journey.
SOCOTEC offers early career opportunities across multiple divisions
Infrastructure
Materials testing and field operations.
Roles include: Materials Testing Technician (L3), Trainee Field Technician, Graduate Site Engineer.
Building & Real Estate
Fire engineering, building control, CDM consultancy, building pathology.
Roles include: Apprentice Business Administrator (L3), Graduate Fire Engineer, Apprentice Building Control Surveyor (L6).
Environmental
Laboratory testing, water hygiene, occupational hygiene, asbestos management.
Roles include: Lab Technician Apprentice (L3), Trainee Asbestos Surveyor/Analyst, Graduate Occupational Monitoring Technician.
Advisory
Expert witness and quantity surveying support for major national and international projects.
Roles include: Trainee Quantity Surveyor (L6), Assistant Quantity Surveyor, Forensic Expert Witness Intern.
Monitoring & Surveying
Monitoring, geotechnical engineering, and field operations.
Roles include: Junior Land Surveyor, Level 3 Apprentice Field Crew, Trainee project manager, Level 3 Apprentice Engineering Technician, Graduate Data Analyst
Corporate Careers
Business, delivery and operational support roles across SOCOTEC.
Roles include: Marketing & Communications Assistant, HR Administrator, Finance Apprentice, IT Support Analyst.
Diversity, Inclusion & Wellbeing
Our Commitment
SOCOTEC is proud to be an equal opportunities employer with diversity, equity, and inclusion at the core of our organisation, championing these principles to empower our people and position ourselves at the forefront of our industry.
We celebrate the unique qualities of our talented and diverse team, whose varied perspectives drive collaboration and innovation across our business. Our commitment to creating an accessible, inclusive, and supportive workplace is demonstrated through significant achievements: progressing from Disability Confident Level 1 to the prestigious Level 3 Leader status, signing the Mindful Employer Charter to promote mental health and wellness, and achieving GOLD status in the prestigious 5% Club, with over 5% of our workforce engaged in earn-and-learn roles such as apprenticeships and graduate training schemes.
These accomplishments reflect our unwavering dedication to fostering a positive, empathetic work environment where all employees can thrive, develop their skills, and contribute to our continued success.
Locations & Global Opportunities
Benefit from new experiences
With over 70 offices and laboratories across the UK and operations in 26 countries, early career employees can benefit from:
Inter site travel
Remote work opportunities (role dependent)
Potential future relocation to international subsidiaries
LISA MASSEY, HR DIRECTOR - SOCOTEC UK
A message from our HR Director
“You are joining us at an exciting time, as we grow and develop our business and our people. As an apprentice or graduate, you will have the opportunity to work on a range of projects, learn new skills and make a difference in our sectors. You are the future of our organisation, and we value your fresh ideas and perspectives.”
“You are joining us at an exciting time, as we grow and develop our business and our people. As an apprentice or graduate, you will have the opportunity to work on a range of projects, learn new skills and make a difference in our sectors. You are the future of our organisation, and we value your fresh ideas and perspectives.”
Want to know more about our early careers opportunities?
Download our early careers brochure today
Our early careers brochure is packed with information about our apprentice and graduate roles, including the benefits, the training, the projects, and the testimonials from our current and former graduates and apprentices.
Our early careers brochure is packed with information about our apprentice and graduate roles, including the benefits, the training, the projects, and the testimonials from our current and former graduates and apprentices.
Learn more
What are the benefits of joining an apprenticeship programme at SOCOTEC?
By joining an apprenticeship programme at SOCOTEC, you will gain valuable work experience, earn a competitive salary, and achieve a nationally recognised qualification. You will also receive mentoring and support from experienced professionals, develop your skills and knowledge, and have the opportunity to progress your career.
What are the entry requirements for an apprenticeship programme?
The entry requirements vary depending on the level and type of apprenticeship programme you are applying for. Generally, you will need to have a minimum of GCSEs in English and Maths, and preferably in Science as well. For some programmes, you may also need to have A levels or equivalent qualifications in relevant subjects. You will also need to demonstrate a keen interest in the built environment sector, a willingness to learn and a commitment to complete the apprenticeship programme.
How do I apply for an apprenticeship programme at SOCOTEC?
You can apply for an apprenticeship programme at SOCOTEC by visiting our careers website and searching for the apprenticeship vacancies that match your interests and qualifications. You will need to submit an online application form, attach your CV and a cover letter, and complete some online assessments. If you meet the criteria, you will be invited to an interview with the hiring manager and the training provider. If you are successful, you will receive an offer letter and start your apprenticeship journey with SOCOTEC.
What is the duration of an apprenticeship programme at SOCOTEC?
The duration of an apprenticeship programme at SOCOTEC depends on the level and type of apprenticeship you are enrolled in. Typically, an apprenticeship programme can last between 12 and 48 months, during which you will balance your work and study time. You will spend 80% of your time working on site or in the office, and 20% of your time studying towards your qualification.
What kind of support will I receive during my apprenticeship programme?
As an apprentice at SOCOTEC, you will receive a comprehensive induction, regular feedback and guidance from your line manager, mentor and tutor, and access to a range of learning and development resources. You will also have the opportunity to network with other apprentices and colleagues across the organisation, and participate in social and volunteering activities. You will be treated as a valued member of the SOCOTEC team, and your achievements will be recognised and rewarded.
How do I secure a graduate job at SOCOTEC?
In order to secure a graduate level role at SOCOTEC, you must have qualified with a degree that is relevant to the role for which you are applying. For example, if you want to work as an environmental consultant, you will need a degree in environmental science, engineering, or a related field. You will also need to demonstrate your passion for the sector, your communication and teamwork skills, and your willingness to learn and grow.
When should I apply for graduate jobs?
It is generally advised that you apply for a graduate role within three years of completing your degree. However, subject to your meeting the requirements set out within the job specification, there is no limit as to when you can apply. We welcome applications from graduates of all ages and backgrounds, as we value diversity and inclusion at SOCOTEC.
How do I apply for a graduate job?
To apply for a graduate role, visit our careers portal and type in ‘graduate’ in to browse our latest vacancies. You will need to submit your CV and a cover letter explaining why you are interested in working for SOCOTEC and what you can bring to the role. You may also need to complete some online tests and assessments, depending on the role. If your application is successful, you will be invited to an interview, where you will have the chance to showcase your skills and personality.
