Apprentice Electrician (electrical installation and maintenance) - University of Oxford - Physics

The Building Services team supports the department to make sure all infrastructural requirements are met. Our work falls broadly into 3 areas:

Maintenance and servicing Testing and inspection to make sure we are compliant The rearrangement of space and objects so that the next task can be done in the space dedicated

The last task can be as simple as removing waste, shifting furniture or as complex as a small Capital works project to reconfigure space: Stripping out, reconfiguring walls and doors, installing new power, lighting and data, processing chilled water, new paint, new flooring, and new ceiling etc.

The work is varied, and you will be trained in electrical installation and maintenance disciplines.

With the introduction of the 18th edition wiring regulations at the beginning of 2019, we have taken on refurbishment projects and this has led to the need to increase the number of electricians. As working in an Oxford University department as an electrician is somewhat unique, we want to take this opportunity to train our own staff.

As an apprentice, you will join the team sometime between July and September (the 1st September is the latest you would start), as the college training is due to start in September 2026. This gives you a chance to develop skills in and around being an electrician and to be settled at work before college starts.

Responsibilities:

Take instructions from an experienced technician, in order to independently complete basic technical tasks Learn that safety is at the forefront of everything we do, to develop the skills and understanding to work safely Safely operate basic equipment and seek assistance from more experienced technicians when required Ensure that the work environment and equipment are kept organised, clean, tidy and secure Gain an understanding of University Blue Book philosophies and regulations. Also, gain an understanding of BS7671 Wiring Regulations Complete records and paperwork in line with statutory testing and other processes Attend all day and block courses in line with your apprenticeship Communicate back to your supervisor, any problems for extra advice and on completion of tasks set Select, within limits, materials and equipment After suitable and sufficient training, join the Building Services Fire Response Team Under the guidance of colleagues, develop the expertise, confidence and skills to engage with academics, researchers, managers and administrators and eventually offer advice on solutions that are timely and cost-effective Any additional tasks that fall within your competency as directed

Hazard-specific / Safety-critical duties:

This job includes the following hazard-specific or safety-critical duties, which will require successful pre-employment health screening through our Occupational Health Department before the successful candidate will be allowed to start work:

Working at heights  Use of any hand tools Use of an electric drill Manual handling Possible driving on university business

The apprentice will learn about these on-the-job under supervision by a qualified technician or engineer.



Training:

Installation and Maintenance Electrician Level 3 Apprenticeship Standard:

You will be required to complete a three-and-a-half-year training programme (within a four-year contract of employment) that will cover all aspects of the role and will be delivered through in-house training, as well as day-release in college (Abingdon Campus)

College Attendance:

You will attend college on a regular basis throughout the apprenticeship in accordance with the requirements of the training provider (Abingdon & Witney College) College attendance and successful completion of all modules are an apprenticeship requirement

Training Outcome:
In total, it will take four years to complete and achieve all elements of this apprenticeship, with support from the department, university, and college throughout Over 80% of our apprentices continue with us in the role they have been trained for after their apprenticeship, and that is just the start of their career

Employer Description:

Becoming an apprentice at the University of Oxford is an excellent opportunity to gain practical experience and training. You will work alongside experienced colleagues, whilst learning on the job and appropriate objectives will be set during the course of the Apprenticeship. At the same time, you will study for formal qualifications in your field. We are the largest employer in Oxfordshire with around 17,000 staff working in and around Oxford in a huge range of roles.



Working Hours :
Monday - Friday, during regular office hours to be confirmed. This is a 3.5-year apprenticeship within a 4-year fixed-term contract of employment.

Skills:
Communication skills,Team working,Physical fitness,Committed to the training,Aptitude for the role,Reliable and punctual,A good work ethic,Awareness of Health & Safety,Able to work at height,Able to work in small spaces,Can demonstrate perseverance


  • Location:
  • Type: Permanent
  • Recruiter: ABINGDON AND WITNEY COLLEGE
  • Posted: 29-Apr-2026
  • Posted on: findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk