Apprentice Structural Engineer

Apprentice Structural Engineer

Immediately available opportunity at J&D Pierce (Contracts) Ltd. (abbreviated JDP). Get paid for gaining a degree apprenticeship qualification with on-the-job mentoring and learning with a leading steelwork ‘design & build’ fabricator.

As an Apprentice Structural Engineer, you shall study Civil Engineering (Environmental Civil Engineering) BSc (Hons) undergraduate degree on a day release program with Glasgow Caledonian University. This is a progressive role that will develop as your apprenticeship moves through the academic course.

 

As you gain more competency skills, knowledge and experience through your day job and study, you will begin to hone your skills and learn how to engineer your own contribution to projects under the direction and support of our qualified and experienced Structural Engineers.

 

As an apprentice with J&D Pierce (Contracts) Ltd. (abbreviated JDP), you shall be afforded the opportunity to experience the route-map from the inception of the design, through the commercial and logistical phases to the fabrication and erection of scheme.

 

  • Working as a member of a team 
  • Document management and supporting the administration of projects 
  • Working primarily in an office environment but with on-site access to our production facility 
  • Developing competency in design software and applying this to engineering solutions 
  • Preparation of calculations & specifications 
  • Liaising with the wider team, be our internal departments or the project design team and clients 
  • Contributing to problem solving and value engineered solutions 
  • Ensuring deliverables meet the required standards 

Our apprenticeship programme at JDP will provide you with the foundations to independently maximise your full potential. 

  •  Reliability, pragmatic, self-motivated and an avid team player with strong communication skills.
  • An inclusive attitude and a commitment to skills development with the drive to keep learning. 
  • An abundance of self-initiative. 
  • A lateral thinker who can apply sound reasoning and logic to solve problems, and who is can think on their feet to direct their decisions. 

 Designing reality in a respected and rewarding profession with good earning potential. 

You can learn more at the Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE) website: Click Here 

Structural Engineering is a specialism of Civil Engineering focusing on Buildings in the built environment. As a Structural Engineer with JDP, you shall apply a lot of the civil engineering attributes to a specialist career in the design and detailing of structural steelwork structures, including buildings and bridges. 

Please Click Here for an overview of the GCU apprenticeship. 

Our offer of a degree apprenticeship is a direct, fully funded pathway to professional qualification, combining undergraduate education with on the job training and contribution to real-life projects. As an apprentice engineer, you shall graduate from our scheme with both the theoretical knowledge and practical industry experience necessary to become a stand-out and respected engineering specialist. 

 

The apprenticeship will run over a five-year period in which you will undertake a supervised programme of work-based training and university study on a day release program which itself shall be over the first four years. Your study will be towards a Civil Engineering BSc (Hons), with your last year focused on professional development suitable to attaining professional membership of the Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE). 

These are additional to the University Programme Syllabus which can be found by reference to the GCU website. 

 

  • Years 1 and 2 will be work-based learning modules. 
  • You shall continuously report on the work you undertake in the workplace. 
  • Year 3 shall be The Engineer in Business where you shall work as part of a group to run a business for a year. 
  • Your final year shall be a project working on something that’s either critical or beneficial to our business. 

Upon successful completion of your degree and the end-point assessment, you will have met the requirements needed to reach Incorporated Engineer status with the Institute of Civil Engineers (ICE). This is an affiliated institution to the IStructE. The challenge then is reflecting on your work-based skills attainment to secure entry to the membership of the Institution of Structural Engineers. You shall be afforded our full support in your drive beyond Technical Membership of the Institution to become a Chartered Member through the Engineering Council. 

 

After the apprenticeship, we expect you to continue to grow your career with us as there need be no limit to your ambitions or skillset. 

  • A commuting time of more than one hour is not considered as a healthy work/life balance and candidate selection may be vetted accordingly. 
  • This is primarily an office-based role working at a desk using a computer for most of the day. 
  • You shall be afforded the opportunity to experience the factory and sites. A Construction Skills certification Scheme (CSCS) test will be necessary if your application proves successful. 

 

You shall attend university as an ambassador for J&D Pierce and with a supporting letter as part of your admissions process. 

 

Your Learning Provider is currently outlined as Glasgow Caledonian University but please note that this could be subject to change depending on availability at application. 

  • Minimum of four Highers. 
  • Must include Maths, Physics, Technological Studies or Engineering Science at grade B or better. 
  • One Higher must be achieved at A grade. 

  • Have full eligibility to work in the UK.
  • Who have just finished Higher’s, or BTEC equivalent.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in both written and verbal communication. 

 

Salary shall be paid at an apprenticeship rate commensurate with our existing business model to be advised upon your invite to interview. 


Working within our design team producing design models, calculations and associated technical report documentation.


Supervising design drawing production and other project related design deliverables.


Liaise closely with the drawing office, manufacturing and construction.


Ensuring that work complies to all necessary departmental and legislative requirements and procedures, to guarantee that consistency and quality of deliverables is maintained.


Coordinate, collaborate and resolve design in conjunction with the Client teams representatives.


Inputting into potential innovation to existing methods and techniques to aid both cost reductions and improved performance in assigned work areas.


Note that strong candidates shall show a particular interest in the following:


3D structural modelling with FEA software; ROBOT, Masterseries & TSD.


Construction engineering; build sequence analysis & temporary works.


Simple and complex connection design.



CEng accredited MSc in Civil/Structural Engineering.


Highly motivated with excellent communication skills.


Ability to perform with continuous attention to detail.


Able to work and collaborate in a team environment.


Must have the right to work in the UK.



Informal but structured training program aimed at progressing to CEng level.


Technical and personal development, learning from experienced chartered engineers and industry professionals.


A focus on “How to Build” structures and its influence on design; a skillset significantly waning in the industry amongst the structural engineering profession.


Graduate exchange programme through partnership with established multi-disciplinary consulting engineers.


Compressed working week Mon-Thurs (8am-5.30pm) with early Friday finish (8am-1.30pm).


Salary competitive with other industry Graduate positions.


A comprehensive modern benefits package, including health benefits, shopping discounts, cycle to work scheme, generous scaling pension scheme, Death in Service, company awards ceremony, modern facilities, and regular team building.


How To Apply

The intake for the 2025 Apprenticeship is now pressing with the University having confirmed that courses are definitely running from the beginning of October’25. 

We are a lean but effective business originating in North Ayrshire and this year we celebrate 50 years. All applicants shall be fielded direct by our Design Department who shall draw down a short-list, within a target closing date of close-of-business Thursday 31st July 2025.

Interviews shall start during the week commencing 18th August with all written correspondence ex-changed via email.

Candidates should submit a detailed CV for the attention of Stephen Curran. 

Contact our Training Administrator to Head of Skills Development, Stephen Curran at [email protected]

Telephone: 01505 683724 

Apply

Apply

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Apprentice Draughtsperson

Apprentice Draughtsperson

J&D Pierce (Contracts) Ltd is Scotland’s leading structural steelwork contractor, renowned for our innovative approach to design, fabrication, and erection of steel structures. Since our inception in 1975 as a family-run business, we have grown to become the largest structural steelwork fabricator in the UK, delivering on major construction projects with a commitment to quality and efficiency.

We are seeking a dedicated individual to join our team as a Technical Draughtsman Apprentice at our head office in Glengarnock. This is an exceptional opportunity for an ambitious individual to embark on a fulfilling career path as a Structural Draughtsperson and gain an HND in Civil engineering.

  • Learn to prepare detailed structural drawings, 3D models, and CNC files necessary for the manufacture and construction of steel structures.
  • Assist in creating accurate technical documentation and drawings under the guidance of experienced professionals.
  • Utilise industry-standard software and tools for drafting and modelling, gaining proficiency throughout the apprenticeship.
  • Attend college on a day-release programme to pursue an HND in Civil Engineering.

  • National 5 (or equivalent) in Maths, English, Physics, and Graphic Communication.
  • Computing Studies would be advantageous.
  • Strong mathematical and analytical skills with a keen attention to detail.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.

  • Comprehensive training and mentorship provided by experienced professionals.
  • Inclusion in our company pension scheme.
  • Access to our subsidised canteen, on-site parking.
  • A comprehensive modern benefits package, including health benefits, cycle to work scheme.
  • Opportunities to acquire new skills and further your career.
  • A vibrant workplace with team building events, awards ceremony, and reward schemes.

How to Apply

If you meet the requirements of this position, have a passion for complex structural steel, and you are looking to contribute to our dynamic team, send your CV to [email protected] with the subject line “Draughtsperson Apprentice”.

Apply

Apply

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Staff Benefit Package

Staff Benefit Package

Late last year, we proudly rolled out a multi-million pound benefit package for our exceptional staff. A component of this initiative was the introduction of reward schemes in recognition of the dedication of our teams and support our culture of safety consciousness.

Today, we are delighted to announce that Thomas has been awarded Employee of the Quarter for his incredible work within our Health and Safety Department. His proactive approach, meticulous adherence to procedures, and adept handling of high-pressure situations makes him well deserving of this award.

In recognition of his outstanding contribution, Thomas has earned himself and his family a well-deserved holiday to Center Parcs UK! Congratulations, Thomas! Your exemplary work ethic and dedication to ensuring the safety of our team does not go unnoticed.

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Apprentice Welder

Apprentice Welder


Learning and understanding structural steel welding.


Follow Health and Safety policies and procedures.


Reading and understanding structural drawings.



Qualifications: Nat5 Maths, English, Physics or Chemistry (preferred but not essential), plus a practical subject e.g. metalwork or woodwork. More importantly, a willingness to learn and good work ethic are a priority.


Skills: Numeracy skills. Problem-solving. Excellent timekeeping. Attention to detail. Ability to listen and follow instructions. Clean, smart, and presentable. Willingness to learn. A keen interest in fabrication.


This position requires right to work and ability to commute to Glengarnock (and East Kilbride for positions with Strubeam)



Competitive salary based on experience, starting at apprentice wages with opportunities for higher pay rates based on performance.


28 days of paid holidays.


Subsidised canteen for convenient on-site dining.


Free on-site parking.


A comprehensive modern benefits package, including health benefits, shopping discounts, cycle to work scheme, generous scaling pension scheme, Death in Service, safety reward scheme, company awards ceremony, modern facilities, flexible shift patterns and regular team building.


A dynamic and engaging workplace with clear pathways for career progression.



Potential of a full-time position with benefits package upon completion of the apprenticeship.
Progression opportunities are available for the right candidate.


Things to Know: Training provided at our Training Academy in Glengarnock. 3 year long Company Apprenticeship for Welders. Salary in line with the Scottish Apprenticeship Rate – updated every April.


Applications

Please fill in the form below to apply for the job.


    CV Upload


    Apprentice Fabricator

    Apprentice Fabricator


    Learning and understanding structural steel welding.


    Follow Health and Safety policies and procedures.


    Reading and understanding structural drawings.


    Practicing communication skills relevant to engineering and the construction industry.



    Qualifications: Nat5 Maths, English, Physics or Chemistry (preferred but not essential), plus a practical subject e.g. metalwork or woodwork. More importantly, a willingness to learn and good work ethic are a priority.


    Skills: Numeracy skills. Problem-solving. Excellent timekeeping. Attention to detail. Ability to listen and follow instructions. Clean, smart, and presentable. Willingness to learn. A keen interest in fabrication.


    This position requires right to work and ability to commute to Glengarnock (and East Kilbride for positions with Strubeam)



    Competitive salary based on experience, starting at apprentice wages with opportunities for higher pay rates based on performance.


    28 days of paid holidays.


    Subsidised canteen for convenient on-site dining.


    Free on-site parking.


    A comprehensive modern benefits package, including health benefits, shopping discounts, cycle to work scheme, generous scaling pension scheme, Death in Service, safety reward scheme, company awards ceremony, modern facilities, flexible shift patterns and regular team building.


    A dynamic and engaging workplace with clear pathways for career progression.



    Potential of a full-time position with benefits package upon completion of the apprenticeship.
    Progression opportunities are available for the right candidate.


    Things to Know: Training provided at our Training Academy in Glengarnock. 4 year long Company Apprenticeship for Fabricators. Salary in line with the Scottish Apprenticeship Rate - updated every April.


    Applications

    Please fill in the form below to apply for the job.


      CV Upload


      Semi-skilled Operator – Paint Shop

      Semi-skilled Operator – Paint Shop


      Responsible for collecting and moving hazardous liquids.


      Operating overhead cranes safely (training provided).


      Manoeuvring large steel beams.


      Mixing epoxy-based paints.


      Responsible for masking off sections of steel.



      Able to show good initiative.


      Able to listen to instruction and follow health and safety procedures.


      Able to work alone or in a team.


      Able to work overtime when required.


      This position requires right to work and ability to commute to East Kilbride or Glengarnock.



      A competitive salary with opportunities for overtime and a scaled rate based on performance.


      28 days of annual leave including closure over Christmas and New Year.


      Access to our subsidised canteen.


      A comprehensive modern benefits package, including health benefits, shopping discounts, cycle to work scheme, generous scaling pension scheme, Death in Service, safety reward scheme, company awards ceremony, modern facilities, flexible shift patterns and regular team building.


      Opportunities to acquire new skills and further your career.


      Applications

      Please fill in the form below to apply for the job.


        CV Upload


        Trainee Spray Painter

        Trainee Spray Painter


        Preparing and priming steel surfaces for painting.


        Applying and meticulously inspecting paint for quality assurance.


        Utilizing two-part epoxy-based, intumescent, and glossing paints with precision.


        Operating airless spray pumps proficiently.


        Safely manoeuvring overhead cranes.


        Employing sanders and flapping discs to achieve a high-quality finish.


        Strict adherence to Health and Safety regulations.


        You will be provided with comprehensive training and mentorship to excel in your role.



        Strong initiative and a proactive approach to tasks.


        A willingness to listen to instructions and a commitment to following health and safety procedures.


        The ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team.


        Flexibility to work overtime when necessary.


        This position requires right to work and ability to commute to Glengarnock.



        Competitive salary based on experience, starting at apprentice wages with opportunities for higher pay rates based on performance.


        28 days of paid holidays.


        Subsidised canteen for convenient on-site dining.


        Free on-site parking.


        A comprehensive modern benefits package, including health benefits, shopping discounts, cycle to work scheme, generous scaling pension scheme, Death in Service, safety reward scheme, company awards ceremony, modern facilities, flexible shift patterns and regular team building.


        A dynamic and engaging workplace with clear pathways for career progression.


        The opportunity to earn your bronze, silver, or gold painters’ card through structured training and mentorship.



        At J&D Pierce we are committed to fostering your growth and success. Our "Train the Painter" program provides one-on-one hands-on training with experienced managers. This comprehensive training encompasses:


        Spray painting techniques.


        Abrasive blast cleaning.


        Thermal metal spraying.


        Thin coating intumescent paint application.


        Access to courses offered through Corrodere's Train the Painter program.


        This training equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to become a qualified painter.


        Applications

        Please fill in the form below to apply for the job.


          CV Upload


          apprenticeship week

          Scottish Apprenticeship Week

          Scottish Apprenticeship Week

          It’s Scottish Apprenticeship Week!

          This week we’ll be sharing with you some of our fine apprentices and their thoughts on working and learning here at J&D Pierce in our training school. Each of our apprentices works side by side with experienced tradespeople, qualified engineers, or draughtsmen.

          First up we’ll be sharing Graeme, an Apprentice Welder who started with us 6 months ago and is making great headway with his learning.

          Second, we are hearing from Jacob, an Apprentice in our Maintenance department who is wrapping up his apprenticeship next month.

          Third, we are hearing from Lewis, an Apprentice Fabricator who was awarded Apprenticeship of the Year for our Glengarnock facility in 2023!

          Fourth, we are hearing from Kyle, an Apprentice Draughtsman in our detailing office in Glengarnock.

          Lastly, we hear from Codi, our Structural Engineering apprentice who was awarded Apprentice of the Year for all our office staff in 2023!

          We hope you’ve enjoyed hearing from just a handful of our brilliant apprentices. To learn more about our apprenticeships, click here.”

          It may be easiest just to include Instagram as everything else is attached to my personal accounts, so I’d be unsure how to give you the login. jdpiercecontracts GreenFirstAid23!

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          New pickup trucks

          New pickup trucks

          New pickup trucks

          On Friday, our five new pickup trucks arrived at HQ already looking beautiful in their JDP orange. These trucks are vital to our operations, ensuring that our teams make it to site. They’re absolutely beautiful in person and we love to see the JDP branding! What an addition to our fleet.

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          UAV360 visit for videoshoot

          UAV360 visit for videoshoot

          Earlier this week we were joined by Cammy from UAV360 at our Glengarnock facility to take some exciting footage of our factory in action. There were a few shocked faces from the team as a variety of drones went shooting overhead. We’re working towards a brand new video that showcases our comprehensive services and we can’t wait to share it with you.

          Thank you so much to Cammy for coming out and providing some amazing footage for us!

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