Openreach to recruit 150 trainee engineers in North West

Openreach has announced plans to expand its engineering workforce in the North West.

The company, which is part of telecoms giant BT Group, confirmed it will recruit over 150 trainees in the region as it looks to improve customer service and invest in its fibre broadband network.

Openreach said applicants will be offered a chance to experience life as a field engineer with the help of virtual reality (VR) technology.

The firm will enable candidates to wear a VR headset and see what it is like to climb a telephone pole or explore the local exchange building from the perspective of an engineer.

Successful trainees will embark on a 12-month accredited learning programme that includes on-the-job experience and leads to a recognised qualification for IT, software and telecoms professionals.

Jim Jackson, Openreach’s regional infrastructure delivery director in the North West, said: “We know from past experience that the North West is an excellent place to recruit skilled and motivated people, who make great engineers.

“Openreach is able to offer them a rewarding career in an exciting and fast moving industry. The trainee engineers will be playing a vital part in the future success and prosperity of our region.”

He added: “High-speed communications have never been more important for local households and businesses – and will become even more important in the years ahead.”

The drive forms part of a wider initiative to hire 1,500 trainee engineers nationally during the next eight months.