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Trainee Network Engineer

Position: Trainee Network Engineer
Salary: Starting salary: £23,433 per annum
Location: Based in Melling, Lancashire
Contract: Full Time, 35 hours per week plus overtime

B4RN (Broadband for the Rural North) is a unique organisation working closely with communities across the UK to bring hyperfast, full-fibre broadband to rural areas. As a Community Benefit Society, driven by innovation and a strong sense of purpose, we work hand-in-hand with local volunteers and stakeholders to deliver a service that’s built by the community, for the community. Joining B4RN means becoming part of a dedicated team making a real difference in people's lives, while thriving in a supportive and collaborative environment where everyone’s contribution matters.

Start Your Career in Network Engineering

We are looking for Trainee Network Engineers to join our team. You don’t need previous experience in fibre optics; what matters most is your enthusiasm, willingness to learn and commitment to working safely and effectively with others. This is an active, outdoor role that will give you variety and practical experience every day. You will work across different sites, often in all weathers, to help build and maintain our full-fibre network. We offer a structured training plan that usually takes between 18 and 24 months to complete. During this time, you will gain hands-on experience, develop your technical knowledge and build your confidence step by step. With support from experienced colleagues and mentors, you will progress towards becoming a competent and qualified Network Engineer with a rewarding long-term career in telecommunications.

What You Will Be Doing

  • Installing and maintaining fibre optic cabling for our network

  • Supporting fibre splicing, testing and troubleshooting with specialist equipment

  • Helping keep our network running through essential maintenance

  • Assisting with fault resolution, including taking part in an on-call rota

  • Recording installations, faults and changes accurately

What We’re Looking For

We are looking for someone with a genuine interest in developing technical skills, who is comfortable using basic computer programs and holds a full, valid driving licence. The role requires flexibility to occasionally work unsociable hours or travel away from home, and to take part in an on-call rota for critical network issues once you are competent. You should also have a strong team ethic and be willing to support your colleagues.

What You Will Get From Us

  • A structured training plan designed to help you become a competent Network Engineer in around 18 to 24 months.

  • Ongoing mentoring and support to help you succeed.

  • Opportunities to increase your earnings through overtime and call-out retainers.

  • Clear pathways for career progression.

  • 28 days holiday per year plus an extra day for each year of service (up to a maximum of 5 extra days).

  • Company pension scheme with employer contributions.

  • Medicash health care plan to support your health and well-being.

  • The satisfaction of knowing your work helps connect rural communities to vital digital services.

If you’re excited about this role and think you could be a great fit, we would love to hear from you. To apply, please send your CV to our People team at recruitment@b4rn.org.uk.

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