Piling attendant
Level 2 · IntermediateConstruction and the built environment 1.5 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
This Level 2 apprenticeship trains you to assist on piling operations - the process of driving or boring deep foundations into the ground to support structures such as bridges, buildings, and tunnels. You will work on piling rigs under supervision, handling materials and supporting the technical piling team safely. It can lead to progression as a piling operative, rig operator, or specialist geotechnical contractor.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Piling methods including driven piles, bored piles, and ground anchors
Health and safety on piling sites including ground hazard awareness
Safe use of tools, plant, and equipment used in piling operations
Soil and ground condition recognition and basic geotechnical principles
Reading and following piling and construction drawings
Environmental controls on piling sites including noise and vibration
Materials handling, mixing, and supply to piling operations
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Assist in setting up and positioning piling rigs and equipment
Handle and position piling tubes, cages, and ancillary materials
Mix and place concrete or grout as directed by the piling team
Maintain a safe and tidy working area around the piling rig
Monitor and report ground conditions and equipment performance
Carry out maintenance checks on piling plant under supervision
Follow site safety rules, permit-to-work systems, and site inductions
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 2 (Intermediate) - roughly GCSE level. Often open with few or no formal qualifications - a strong first step. Some employers ask for a couple of GCSEs.
What’s next: Typically leads on to a Level 3 (Advanced) apprenticeship.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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