High-speed rail project HS2 is planning to create 300 new apprenticeships this year.
To coincide with the start of National Apprenticeship Week today, HS2 says it has launched a recruitment drive for the first 80 apprentice vacancies with further jobs to be advertised in the coming weeks.
The rail project has already employed more than 1,100 apprentices so far with a long-term target of 2,000, among an overall workforce of around 30,000 people.
The first round of jobs to be advertised include roles in the procurement, project management, HR, IT and land and property teams.
HS2's construction partners and companies in the wider supply chain are also recruiting for more than 50 new roles in areas such as tunnelling, civil engineering, stakeholder engagement, scaffolding and plant operations.
HS2 has teamed up with colleges and universities for the training of apprentices which will be carried out alongside hands-on work experience in HS2's headquarters in Birmingham city centre, satellite offices and at 350 live construction sites. This latest jobs drive follows the news at the turn of the year that HS2 was recruiting for 40 graduate roles.
The first phase of HS2 is currently under construction between London and Birmingham while preliminary work has started on later phases connecting Birmingham with Crewe, Manchester and the East Midlands.
Last month, reports emerged that HS2 would stop at Old Oak Common in West London and the section into Euston station in central London would not be completed, something that was rubbished by Chancellor Jeremy Hunt.
Head of legacy Natalie Penrose said: "HS2 is launching its biggest ever apprenticeship recruitment drive and I'd encourage anyone, whether starting out in their career, or looking for a complete change of direction, to take a look at what we can offer.
"The ability to earn and learn means it's never too late to pursue a different profession."
Rail Minister Huw Merriman added: "As HS2 heads towards its target of 2,000 apprenticeships, it's playing a vital role in ensuring a career in rail is accessible to all, regardless of their background."
