Want to be running multi-million pound projects by your mid-twenties? Our Management Trainee Programme isn't just a job—it's your express route to becoming a construction leader. In an industry crying out for young talent, we're offering you the chance to leapfrog traditional career paths and accelerate straight into management roles.
The proof? Our current CEO Graham Dundas, COO Chris Tredget, and Executive Chairman Rick Willmott all started as management trainees here. After 40+ years of developing future leaders, we know exactly how to turn ambitious young people into construction's next generation of senior managers.
Fast-track progression – Skip the queue and advance years ahead of your peers
Competitive salary – Earn while you learn, with increases as you progress
Qualifications included – Gain industry-recognized qualifications without student debt
Real responsibility – Lead actual projects, not just observe from the sidelines
Proven success – Our trainees regularly become senior managers and board members
Hands-on experience – Get your hands dirty before you manage others
A day in the life of Ben Jones, Management Trainee at Willmott Dixon
Whatever your background, we have a pathway designed for you:
A-levels, BTEC, T-levels, HNC, or skilled trade background?
Skip university debt and jump straight into paid management training. You'll study for a higher-level apprenticeship qualification while gaining real project experience. By the time your university friends graduate, you'll already have 4 years of management experience and zero student debt.
Got a construction-related degree?
Your technical knowledge plus our management training equals rapid career acceleration. In just 2 years, you'll be ready to lead major projects and teams.
Degree in something else? We still want you!
Your fresh perspective combined with our construction expertise creates innovative leaders. We'll give you the technical foundation while fast-tracking your management development.
This isn't sitting in a classroom—this is learning by doing real work that matters.
Start with an intensive 2-week hands-on programme where you'll learn actual trade skills. You can't manage what you don't understand, so you'll get your hands dirty from day one.
Experience every area of construction through carefully planned placements. From site management to design, from commercial to sustainability - you'll understand the whole business, not just one corner of it.
Join a network of ambitious trainees from across the country. You'll attend courses, events, and challenges together, building relationships that will support your entire career.
Work on actual construction projects that transform communities. Schools, hospitals, housing developments, commercial buildings - your work will have real impact from the start.
October 2025 – Applications open (get ready now!)
December 2025 – Application deadline
January 2026 – Shortlisting and video interviews
February/March 2026 – Assessment centres
April 2026 – Job offers made
September 2026 – Your management career begins!
The construction industry needs young leaders who think differently, embrace technology, and understand sustainability. If you're ambitious, driven, and want to make a real impact while building an incredible career, this is your moment.
Don't wait - start preparing now. Research the industry, understand our projects, and get ready to show us why you're future leadership material.
Questions? Email our team here – we're excited to hear from you.
Your leadership journey starts with one application. Your impact starts on day one.
All management trainees and former trainees who have finished their programme within the last 12 months are invited to an annual 'trainee of the year' event to celebrate the achievements of trainees throughout the year. It is here that the prestigious 'trainee of the year award' is presented.
James created Willmott Dixon's first, off-grid renewable pod which will be used by students for years to come...
The construction of a new, disability compliant outbuilding will support the scouts' mission...
Jamie created a programme, which resulted in four 16-24-year-olds finding employment
Josh created and delivered a programme to help those not in employment, education or training, find work in our industry
A region-wide wardrobe clear out resulted in 246kg of clothes being recycled...
Beth focussed on raising awareness of social enterprises across our North region...
Improved technology for local charity will help more homeless people find safe places to stay
Improving biodiversity and encouraging learning across local communities