When applying for a position within our Graduate Programme, your application will go through several stages. We have put together this overview to help guide you through the process.
You will need to make an application through our online recruitment portal. You will need to upload your cover letter and CV, and we will ask you some questions so that we can get to know you better. This is your opportunity to share with us why this role is perfect for you!
For this stage we use an online gamification tool, via Artic Shores, which helps us to understand what you do best! This isn’t about answering numerous questions, but engaging in up to nine tasks (the number of tasks you will undertake will depend on the role you have applied to) which gives us an insight into your thought processes and motivations. We want to you to find this a valuable experience, so once you have finished your assessment you will receive feedback on the natural behaviours you showcased to us.
If you are successful in progressing to the next stage of our recruitment process, this is where you will receive an invitation to an assessment centre, and we will get to meet in person. Here, you can showcase your ability and meet some of your potential new colleagues face-to-face. This is also an opportunity to hear from key leaders and current graduates and apprentices from across our business; the aim being to provide you with a real insight into what it’s like to work for Colas Rail. Dependant on the role you are applying for, there may be a follow up interview stage post assessment centre.
The final stage of our recruitment process is the offer stage, where successful candidates will be contacted by our Early Careers team and invited to join Colas Rail UK. Excitingly, this stage marks the beginning of your journey with us, and we will share with you what you can expect as you begin the onboarding process with us!
At Colas Rail UK, our mission is to deliver excellence through pioneering innovation, teamwork, and an unwavering commitment to safety. We proudly welcome new technologies that help us to lead the way in the rail industry and we recognise the value that AI has in helping us push boundaries and innovate with ambition.
However, our success is built not only on innovation, but also on people. It is the passion, respect and dedication of every team member that sets us apart. We pride ourselves on our inclusive, supportive culture, where every individual’s contribution matters and every voice is heard. Integrity, authenticity, and respect are fundamental to how we operate and grow together.
We recognise AI’s place in supporting you to make a great application to us, but when it comes to your application we really want to hear your authentic voice - your real thoughts, experiences, and ambitions - not just an answer generated by AI. We encourage you to take the time to reflect on your experiences and respond in your own words. Show us how you live our values and what inspires you to join us on our journey. By sharing your authentic self, you’ll help us build a team that truly represents the diversity, integrity and passion of our industry.
In return we make a commitment to you that your application will be looked at by a human; someone who will take the time to build a picture of who you are and how you could contribute to our teams. We want that picture to be a true reflection of you, so use technology to enhance your story, but don’t be tempted to let it rewrite it for you – after all, the genuine you could be just who we are looking for!
Whilst AI is a powerful tool, we don’t believe that it replaces the qualities we value most. We’re looking for people (real people!) who are ready to make a difference; people who will bring their unique perspective and personality to Colas Rail, and who will leave a legacy that lasts for generations.
