Field Engineer Apprenticeship

Virgin Media; Sunderland; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading telecommunications company seeks a Field Technician Apprentice to install, configure, and maintain broadband, TV, and phone products across various sites. The apprenticeship combines on-the-job training with academic study, providing essential skills for a career in tech. Strong communication and problem-solving skills are critical for success in this hands-on role with physical demands, including work at heights and outdoors.

Benefits

Starting salary of £26,500

Health benefits through Bupa

25 days annual leave

Paid maternity & adoption leave

Referral bonus scheme

Qualifications

• Ability to work at heights and outdoors.
• Capable of explaining technical information simply.
• Analytical thinking skills.

Responsibilities

• Run and install cables across different sites.
• Adjust signal levels and connections.
• Configure advanced telecom equipment.
• Fault-find and problem-solve issues on the network.

Skills

Strong verbal and written communication skills

Attention to detail

Customer-care mindset

Problem-solving skills

Physical fitness

Full driver’s licence

Education

Basic functional skills in English and maths

Job description

Overview

As a Field Technician Apprentice at Virgin Media O2 you will work with the latest technology, installing and fixing broadband, TV and phone products. By the end of the apprenticeship you will have mastered the skills required to install, configure, maintain and troubleshoot telecom network equipment across a variety of sites.

Responsibilities

• Run and install cables across different sites.
• Adjust signal levels and connections.
• Configure advanced telecom equipment.
• Work at heights to install and update equipment on poles.
• Work outdoors in all weather conditions, handling physical, hands‑on tasks.
• Use a valid driver’s licence to deliver service and encourage referrals – earn a £50 bonus for each new customer.
• Carry out risk assessment before starting work activities and follow method statements.
• Identify the structure and composition of telecom network cables.
• Interpret telecom network plans to locate plant and services.
• Work on and in various connection points of the telecoms network.
• Work safely in overhead and underground environments, following correct procedures.
• Select and use appropriate equipment on a telecom network.
• Install and test components of the telecom network.
• Fault‑find and problem‑solve issues on the network.
• Maintain safety standards while working towards task objectives.
• Use personal protective equipment correctly and safely.
• Communicate with third parties accurately and timely to deliver the best experience.
• Identify and take appropriate action when working around other utility services.
• Work individually or as part of a team to achieve defined goals.

Qualifications

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Attention to detail and organisational ability.
• Customer‑care mindset with the ability to explain technical information simply.
• Problem‑solving skills and analytical thinking.
• Physical fitness and ability to work at heights and outdoors.
• Full driver’s licence (mandatory for travel).
• Basic functional skills in English and maths (training will be provided).

Training & Apprenticeship

The Level 2 Telecoms Field Operative apprenticeship combines on‑the‑job learning (approximately 80 % of the time) with academic study (20 % of the time). The programme is fully funded and includes training with approved providers, allowing you to earn a National Vocational Qualification while gaining real‑world experience.

Salary & Working Hours

• Starting salary: £26,500 per year – rising to £29,000 upon successful completion of the apprenticeship.
• Working hours: 37.5 hours per week on a rolling pattern with shifts between 8 am and 8 pm. After completion you will move to a 4‑days‑out‑of‑7 schedule (38 hours per week).
• Annual leave: 25 days (increasing to 28 days after five years), plus a birthday holiday.
• Health benefits through Bupa healthcare.
• Paid maternity & adoption leave up to 26 weeks; generous paternity and neonatal leave.
• Referral bonus scheme: £50 for each new customer referred.

Start Date & Duration

• Start date: Wednesday 6 May 2026.
• Duration: 1 year 1 month.