Leaving school, changing direction or starting your career? Our programmes are designed to help the next generation of built environment professionals learn, grow and find the right path.
Built around your development, we support your growth with real-world experience and a clear path from graduate to confident professional.
At Ridge, you’ll receive outstanding professional support whatever degree you come to us with. During your initial two-year Evolve development programme, you’ll learn through Continuing Professional Development (CPD), masterclasses and networking sessions — while developing professional skills such as communication and time management. You’ll be supported by a dedicated network of the Future Talent team, line managers and peers throughout your journey, helping you naturally grow in confidence.
If you already have a related qualification, we can guide you towards professional chartership and if your background is unrelated, you might decide to start a degree in your chosen discipline. Either way, we’ll support you throughout, so when your two-year Evolve programme ends, you’ll be equipped to step confidently into your next role, ready to shape the career you want.
Our fee-free, fully supported degree apprenticeship is a professional launchpad into the Built Environment – designed for school leavers, career changers or returners.
This two-year development programme combines real-world experience and professional support to accelerate your learning and personal growth, while you study towards your degree. Your confidence and knowledge will build through Continuing Professional Development (CPD), networking and masterclasses and you’ll be fully supported by our Future Talent Team, dedicated line managers, mentors, peers and your education provider.
At the end of the Elevate programme, you’ll have a great sense of professional progress and personal achievement which will benefit you as your studies continue towards your degree and chartership — fully funded by Ridge.
Entry criteria
This depends on your chosen discipline, so explore them here.
Click a discipline below to find your fit… or search here using ‘graduate’ or ‘apprentice’ for more opportunities.
Architecture
Architecture is where ideas become reality.
From schools and homes to laboratories and motorsport facilities, architects combine creativity, technical thinking and problem-solving to design buildings and spaces that are functional, sustainable and stand the test of time.
If you’re creative, enjoy thinking visually and like exploring different design possibilities, architecture blends artistic flair with real-world impact. From early sketches and concepts to completed buildings, you’ll watch your designs become part of the places people live, work and spend time in.
Please note: Architecture roles are not recruited through our Elevate (apprenticeship) or Evolve (graduate) programmes. Register for job alerts on our website to be notified about Architectural Assistant Part 1 and Part 2 opportunities.
Evolve for graduates - what's needed?
Related (but non-essential) graduate degrees:
Architecture
Architectural Technology
Interior Architecture
Urban Design
Building surveying
Curious about how buildings work and why they change over time?
Building surveyors inspect properties, identify issues and help clients plan repairs, improvements and new uses across a building’s life.
With a mix of office and site work, no two days are the same. It’s a great choice if you enjoy variety, investigating how things work and finding practical solutions. You’ll work closely with clients from an early stage of your career, get involved in projects from concept to completion and build the skills and experience you need to progress towards professional chartership.
I look back at the surveyor I was less than six months ago and I’m vastly better because of the experience and support I’ve been given, which I can then give to others. – Luke Johnson, Graduate Building Surveyor, London
Apprentice →
Building surveyor →
Senior building surveyor →
Associate →
Partner
Evolve for graduates - what's needed?
Related (but non-essential) graduate degrees:
Building Surveying
Construction Management
Real Estate
Property Management
Elevate for apprentices - what's needed?
Entry requirement:
GCSE Maths and English Grade 4/C and above
A Levels at BCC grades or equivalent qualifications, or:
Advanced Apprenticeship in Surveying, or an Advanced Apprenticeship in Construction Technical through which a Construction and Built Environment Diploma (minimum DD profile) or Extended Diploma (minimum MMM profile) was achieved
Strong numerical and written communication skills
Civil engineering
Civil engineers shape the infrastructure that surrounds us.
From designing roads, bridges and drainage systems to supporting projects through design and delivery, they turn ideas into places and spaces that people use every day.
If you enjoy practical problem-solving and want to see how your work influences the world around you, civil engineering could be for you. With a mix of technical thinking, collaboration and variety, you’ll work on projects that leave a lasting mark on the places we live, work and travel through.
I first heard about the programme while on a six-month placement with thecivil engineering team. They mentioned the possibility of starting an apprenticeship with them so that I could switch careers after completing my architecture degree. – Jessica Ridley, Apprentice Civil Engineer, Bristol
A Levels at grades BBB, including Maths and a science, preferably Physics or Chemistry, or
An engineering Level 3 qualification (BTEC National Diploma) with a minimum distinction in Maths modules
Cost and commercial management
Every project relies on good decisions, and cost and commercial managers are at the heart of making them.
They work with clients and teams to plan, manage and control costs, making sure projects deliver the best possible outcomes and stay on budget. Throughout a project’s lifecycle, they balance cost, value and long-term sustainability to shape key decisions.
If you enjoy working with numbers and are interested in understanding the commercial side of projects,you’ll feel right at home here. You’ll weigh up different options, make recommendations and see how your decisions shape a project’s success.
I’m currently working towards my chartership and have access to a range of training courses to support me along the way. I’ve also received a huge amount of support from colleagues across the business, who are always willing to share their knowledge, insights and guidance with someone at the early stages of their career.
– Elisha Jassal, Graduate Quantity Surveyor, Reading
This is a clear, recognised professional pathway via RICS. There are early opportunities to take on commercial responsibility and develop your career.
Evolve for graduates - what's needed?
Related (but non-essential) graduate degrees:
Quantity Surveying
Commercial Management
Construction Management
Real Estate
Elevate for apprentices - what's needed?
Entry requirement:
GCSE Maths and English at Grade 4/C or above
A Levels at grades BCC, or
Advanced Apprenticeship in Surveying, or an Advanced Apprenticeship in Construction Technical through which a Construction and Built Environment Diploma with a minimum DD profile was obtained, or a Construction and Built Environment Extended Diploma with a minimum MMM profile was obtained
Strong numerical ability
Digital engineering
Digital engineers use technology to make projects smarter, more connected and easier to deliver.
From managing project data and digital models to improving collaboration between teams, they bring clarity to complex information so everyone can work from the same trusted source.
If you’re excited by technology and enjoy exploring new ways to solve problems, digital engineering puts you at the forefront of how projects are delivered. You’ll turn data into insight, improve the way people work together and give project teams the information they need to make better decisions from start to finish.
Apprentice →
Digital Engineer →
Senior Digital Engineer →
Associate →
Head of Digital
Please note: you may need to complete a Level 4 qualification before progressing to the degree apprenticeship.
Evolve for graduates - what's needed?
Related (but non-essential) graduate degrees:
Digital Engineering
BIM and Digital Construction
Computer Science
Engineering
Elevate for apprentices - what's needed?
Entry requirement:
GCSE Maths and English at Grade 4/C or above
• HNC/HND in a related subject, such as Construction and the Built Environment, or a course linked to a relevant professional body, such as TCIAT Architectural Technician, achieved with a Merit grade, or
• Level 4 Apprenticeship in a relevant subject, or an equivalent Level 4 qualification, or
• STEM-related A Levels at grades BB or equivalent qualifications
• Strong digital aptitude
Fire safety
Fire engineers make buildings safer for the people who use them.
They assess risks and develop fire safety strategies for both new developments and existing properties, shaping how they are designed, built and managed.
If you’re interested in how buildings perform and enjoy analysing risks, you’ll find plenty to get stuck into. Few disciplines combine technical thinking with such a direct impact on people’s safety.
Apprentice →
Fire Engineer →
Senior Fire Engineer →
Associate →
Partner
Evolve for graduates - what's needed?
Related (but non-essential) graduate degrees:
Fire Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Building Services Engineering
Elevate for apprentices - what's needed?
Entry requirement:
GCSE Maths and English at Grade 4/C or above
STEM-focused A Levels or equivalent qualifications. Must include Maths and Physics, or a STEM subject at Grade C
An engineering Level 3 qualification (BTEC National Diploma) with a minimum distinction in Maths modules
Strong numerical and analytical skills
Must be able to travel to the education provider in Preston one day per week (currently the only provider offering the course)
Geospatial
Every project starts with understanding what’s already there.
Geospatial specialists use surveying technology, laser scanning and digital modelling to capture accurate information about buildings, land and infrastructure, giving design teams a reliable foundation to build from.
If you’re fascinated by maps, data and technology, geospatial brings all three together. Using CAD and other software, you’ll analyse data and see how accurate information shapes future developments from the very beginning.
A Levels including Geography, Maths or a STEM subject
Strong analytical skills
Able to travel one day per week to the training provider in London for the degree apprenticeship, or Dudley for the Level 3 option
Health and safety
The best safety decisions are the ones made before work begins.
Health and safety consultants work alongside clients, designers and delivery teams from the earliest stages. They identify and manage risks, influence decisions and make sure safety is considered throughout the design, construction and ongoing use of a building.
If you’re naturally curious, enjoy working with others and like finding practical solutions to complex challenges, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s a role where strong communication and sound judgement have a direct impact on people’s wellbeing, creating safer places for those who build, use and maintain them.
Apprentice →
Health and Safety Consultant →
Senior Consultant →
Associate →
Partner
Evolve for graduates - what's needed?
Occupational Health and Safety
Environmental Management
Construction Management
Engineering
Building Surveying
Geography
Risk Management
Elevate for apprentices - what's needed?
Entry requirement:
GCSE Maths and English at Grade 4/C or above
A Levels at grades CCC or equivalent qualifications
Good analytical and communication skills
MEP engineering
Some of the most important parts of a building are the ones you never see.
From designing heating, cooling, ventilation, lighting and power systems to integrating renewable energy technologies, MEP engineers combine technical know-how with creative thinking to make buildings work better for the people who use them.
If you’re curious about how things work and enjoy solving technical problems, this could be a great fit. You’ll use your skills to create more sustainable buildings that are comfortable, efficient and built for the future.
I’m involved in early-stage designs, coordinating with architects, civil and structural engineers to figure out how services will fit within a building. We also have regular CPDs and training sessions with manufacturers, so it’s a great mixture. – Isabelle Jee, Apprentice Building Services Engineer, Manchester
A Levels at grades BBB, including Maths and a science, preferably Physics or Chemistry
An engineering Level 3 qualification (BTEC National Diploma) with a minimum distinction in Maths modules
Project and programme delivery
Project managers turn plans into action, keeping projects on track from start to finish.
They lead planning and coordination, working with clients, contractors and teams to manage priorities, budgets and timescales.
If you’re organised, enjoy juggling priorities and thrive on responsibility, project management has plenty to offer. Strong communication skills and a collaborative mindset will help you build relationships, overcome obstacles and keep projects moving forward.
I recently led a meeting for a new project and was really nervous about it. I was still getting to grips with the subject matter. Afterwards, one of the architects stopped me in the kitchen to say, ‘You did amazing, well done.’ Those small moments of support really build your confidence.
This is a recognised progression route through the RICS or APM pathway. There are early opportunities to take on responsibility, work closely with clients and develop leadership skills throughout your career.
Evolve for graduates - what's needed?
Related (but non-essential) graduate degrees:
Project Management
Construction Management
Business Management
Engineering Management
Elevate for apprentices - what's needed?
Entry requirement:
GCSE Maths and English at Grade 4/C or above
A Levels at grades BCC, or
Advanced Apprenticeship in Surveying, or an Advanced Apprenticeship in Construction Technical through which a Construction and Built Environment Diploma with a minimum DD profile was obtained, or a Construction and Built Environment Extended Diploma with a minimum MMM profile was obtained
Strong communication and organisational skills
Planning
From homes and schools to business parks, regeneration schemes and infrastructure, planners shape the future of towns, cities and neighbourhoods by guiding developments through the planning process.
If you’re fascinated by how communities evolve, planning offers the chance to shape them. You’ll combine research, strategic thinking and collaboration, with the opportunity to influence places for years to come.
I’m working on a couple of supported living applications, and those are the schemes where you feel you’re genuinely making a difference. Getting them approved enables adults with additional needs to live more independently, which makes the work feel incredibly rewarding. – Cleo Jefferies, Assistant Planner, Cheltenham
From bridges, schools and high-rise developments to the hidden elements that support them, structural engineers make buildings and infrastructure safe, efficient and sustainable.
If you’re an analytical thinker who enjoys understanding how things are built, structural engineering could be an ideal choice. Combining technical thinking, creativity and advanced 3D modelling tools, you’ll refine designs, push boundaries and bring bold visions to life.
Take any opportunity to learn or see something new. Say yes, whether it’s a site visit or a CPD session. It’s much easier when you have a real-life understanding of what you’re learning in the classroom.
– Harri Morgan, Apprentice Structural Engineer, Cardiff
A Levels at grades BBB, including Maths and a science, preferably Physics or Chemistry
An engineering Level 3 qualification (BTEC National Diploma) with a minimum distinction in Maths modules
Hear from our people
I've worked on a variety of projects across different sectors, from Formula 1 to conservation work. We're currently supporting Blenheim Palace with a painting restoration programme. It's not something I ever thought I'd be involved in.
Lilly Amies
Apprentice Quantity Surveyor, Oxford
There's so much support, not just from your line manager but from people across the business. If something interests you, the response is usually 'go for it.' I really like that freedom to learn a bit more outside of your job.
Aurora Okusanya
Apprentice Data Analyst, Manchester
When I was still relatively new, I got involved in setting up the social committee in the Cardiff office. We've organised everything from bowling to charity hikes, including the Welsh Three Peaks which raised more than £2,000.
We have regular breakfast sessions with different discipline leads across the business, which gives you an insight into what other teams are working on. It's helped me understand not just planning, but how my role fits within our interdisciplinary approach.
Cleo Jefferies
Assistant Planner, Cheltenham
I started with no engineering experience at all. Everyone in the team was really supportive in helping me understand the regulations and develop my engineering design skills.
Jacob Blannin
Apprentice Civil Engineer, Cardiff
When I was a first-year degree apprentice, I chaired progress meetings on one of the projects I was working on, which felt very rewarding. You’re not just getting hands-on experience, you're fully integrated into projects and get meaningful roles within them.
Zafer Ahmed
Apprentice Quantity Surveyor, London
You're not babied here, and that's what I love about Ridge. They give you that independence and expect you to be responsible for yourself, which has helped me grow tenfold as a project manager.
Clare Court
Graduate Project Manager, Liverpool
Even if you're just making a brew in the kitchen, you can strike up a conversation with anyone. Through Next Gen, a development programme for young professionals at Ridge, I've had the chance to meet senior people across the business.
Jennifer Hewitt
Apprentice MEP Engineer, Manchester
No two days are the same. One day I might be taking minutes or preparing agendas, and the next I could be visiting client sites in Scotland, Cornwall or Wales. It varies so much.
Luke Johnson
Graduate Building Surveyor, London
What sets us apart
Progress with purpose
We'll challenge you to reach your full potential with a top-to-toe plan that develops your professional, technical and personal skills - delivered by people who care.
Wellbeing built in
Proudly named one of the UK's Best Workplaces for Wellbeing (Great Place to Work UK), our inclusive culture supports you to thrive without barriers.
Greener by design
We lead, collaborate and embed Net Zero Carbon principles into all that we do - whether under our own roof or on our clients' projects.
Time to unwind
From darts to mountain climbs and charity fundraisers, our social events bring everyone together to relax, connect and enjoy time beyond the desk.
Your Future Talent journey starts here
If you have any questions about Elevate or Evolve, get in touch or
Ridge is proud to be an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. We are committed to building a workforce that is representative of the users we serve, creating a culture of belonging, and providing an equal employment opportunity regardless of race, creed, colour, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition (including breastfeeding), expecting or parents-to-be, criminal histories consistent with legal requirements, or any other basis protected by law.
Future talent FAQs
Can I apply for multiple roles?
Start with the role that’s best matched to your skills, interest and career goals. If you’re open to other roles or locations, let us know and we’ll keep them in mind when we’re reviewing your application.
What does the recruitment process look like?
We start with a few basic checks, such as right to work and qualifications. Once applications close, it’s over to our Future Talent team. They read every one based on what we need for each role. If you’re a fit, we’ll invite you to join us for the next stage – a (friendly!) assessment and interview.
How long will it take to hear back?
You’ll hear from us throughout the process. We’ll confirm we’ve received your application as soon as it arrives. Once applications close, we’ll be back in touch to let you know what’s next.
Do you offer hybrid working?
Yes, we offer flexible ways of working.
Depending on your role and team, there may be opportunities to work remotely. But when you’re starting out, there’s a lot to be said for being in the office. It’s where those quick questions get answered and opportunities often come from the conversations you weren’t expecting, whether that’s with an experienced colleague or someone at a similar stage in their career. You never know who you’llend up chatting to while making a cup of tea.
What professional development support is available?
Our Evolve (for Graduate) and Elevate (for Apprentice) development programmes offer a structured two-year development package. Read more about them here.
Can I relocate between Ridge offices?
We know plans can change. While opportunities to move between Ridge offices may come up in the future, they’ll depend on business needs and suitable roles at the time. For now, we’d encourage you to apply for roles in locations you’d be happy to work from on a regular basis.
