Our early careers programmes
Applications are now open for our graduate and higher apprentice trainee roles!
If you want to make a real impact in your career, there’s no better place to start your journey.
We have a range of graduate and higher apprentice trainee roles available, so explore and reimagine your career journey.
Ace your application: top tips to shine and stand out
Join us for a virtual event full of helpful hints! This session will guide you in crafting a successful application for our graduate and higher apprentice trainee roles.
Our Early Careers team will share their advice, and you’ll get the chance to hear real life insights from current trainees.
Don’t miss out – secure your spot!
Explore our early careers programmes
Choose the right pathway for you.
Graduate trainee route
Are you a university graduate? Find out more about our trainee programme.
Higher apprentice trainee route
Do you have A-levels or an equivalent level 3 qualification? Find out more about our trainee programme.
Year out placement trainee route
Are you part way through an industry related degree? Find out more about our trainee programme.
Level 2/3 apprenticeships
Do you have GCSEs in Maths and English? Find out more about our Level 2/3 apprenticeship route.
Step into an exciting industry
with plenty of prospects
There are incredible opportunities available in the built environment.
With a wide range of roles across many areas, there’s a place for you in our supportive culture so you can establish a successful career and flourish.
Testimonials
See how our early career programmes have impacted people's careers at Wates.
Our early career programmes give people the opportunity to grow, develop and succeed in their career with us.
Chardae Opoku-Afranie
Commercial Management Trainee
"I joined Wates after completing my A levels, and I am currently a Commercial Management Trainee pursuing a level 4 qualification in quantity surveying. I was inspired to join Wates by my dad’s profession as a Civil Engineer – I always knew I wanted a career in this sector. I now look to inspire a new generation of talent to seize opportunities in the built environment, whatever their background. As a black woman in the industry, at Wates I am empowered to be a role model and represent diverse talent in the industry. In the future, I look forward to progressing onto chartership, and one day becoming a Commercial Manager."
Aimee Shann
Quality Manager
My career at Wates has been very varied. I joined Wates as a Production Management Trainee in 2017. After a wonderful five years working in site management roles, I moved across to the Quality team in 2022. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Wates so far and have been given some incredible opportunities, including recently being appointed onto the Future Leaders Board. There are endless career opportunities within the industry and my development across roles is just one example of that. It is evident Wates are a people focused company and they genuinely care about employee development.
Golden Iwourie
Planning Management Trainee
Over the past two years, I have embarked on a transformative journey as a Planning Management Trainee within Wates, a company that prioritises the growth and development of its trainees. Joining through the esteemed trainee programme, I've had the invaluable opportunity to immerse myself in the intricacies of the built environment industry while learning on the job. One of the programme's highlights has been the opportunity to undertake placements across diverse departments such as Production, Commercial, Design, SHE (Safety, Health, and Environment), M&E (Mechanical and Electrical), and Bid.
Holly Rush
Developments Management Trainee
I joined Wates with no prior industry experience, and it has been an incredible journey. Through the graduate scheme I worked in the Project team supporting the promotion of land through planning. I am also an active member of the Wates Women and Allies Steering Committee which I’ve gained invaluable insights from. Wates' dedication to excellence and innovative solutions have accelerated my learning curve while allowing me to expand my professional network. Their supportive culture and emphasis on development have made each challenge manageable and rewarding. I wholeheartedly recommend Wates for anyone seeking a dynamic career path with growth and opportunity.”
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