Apprenticeship: Toome man Shea McAteer found out about NI Water entry academy through 'word of mouth'

Shea McAteer started NI Water’s Entry Level Academy in September 2023 as a Construction Engineering Higher Level Apprentice.

Shea said: “I found out about NI Water’s Entry Level Academy through word of mouth, and I thought it would be a good place to work. What interested me most about the Higher Level Apprenticeship was I knew I could earn while studying for my University degree in construction.

“Since joining NI Water just a few months ago, I found I settled in really quickly and I have enjoyed multiple opportunities to see and do amazing things. I’ve just finished my first rotation, going out with my managers to the different NI Water sites and meeting different teams in places like Ballyronan, Newry and Newcastle.

"My managers are really great, I know I can talk to them and ask them for their help and support at any time.

“I have found the programme really interesting so far, especially getting to work across NI Water’s different sites. I’d definitely advise other people to apply, they should definitely consider the different opportunities that are available.”

Over 100 people are currently part of the utility company’s apprenticeship programme. NI Water is now looking to add to that number, with 28 new entry level jobs currently available across Northern Ireland.

NI Water is searching for school leavers, at GCSE and A-Level stages, graduates and people who are considering a career change.

A broad range of apprenticeships, higher level apprenticeships and graduate programmes are available to suit different aspirations and interests.

Opportunities include roles in science, construction engineering, customer and intelligent operations, commercial contract management, Net Zero electrical engineering, geographic information systems (GIS), IT project management and also accountancy.

NI Water Entry Level Co-ordinator Clodagh Patterson explained: “If you’re looking for the opportunity of a lifetime, you better be quick! Our deadline for applications is Monday 12th February 2024.

“We offer careers that matter and we’ll help you gain skills, fully funded nationally rcognised qualifications and hands-on experience with professional and xperienced colleagues to help you launch your career.”