More than 150 new jobs for apprentices and graduates are up for grabs at JCB as the company today launches its application process for its hugely successful Early Careers Programme.

 The Staffordshire digger giant has today begun inviting applications for its 2023 intake, with competition expected to be fierce after more than 2,000 people applied for places last year.

Opportunities for 2023 include graduate careers in Design and Development, Future Technologies, Electrical and Controls, Software Development and Sales and Marketing. There will also be degree apprenticeships in Business and Engineering alongside Level 3 apprenticeships in areas such as Manufacturing Engineering, Purchasing, Mechatronics and business-wide technician opportunities.  In addition, Level 2 assembly and welding apprenticeships will be offered for recruits from age 16+, while the company will be partnering with The JCB Academy to offer new T-Level qualifications.

 Group HR Director Max Jeffery said: “JCB is one of the world’s largest construction and agricultural machinery manufacturers and we offer huge scope to develop very rewarding careers. JCB has ambitious growth plans over the next five years and nurturing new talent will be a key to success.”

 JCB has invested more than £8 million in developing its Early Careers Programme, and since 2008 more than 1,300 people have joined the company through the scheme. Among them are Hannah Hurdley, who joined as a Business Degree Apprentice aged 18 after her A levels. She completed a degree in Professional Practice in Management and, immediately after coming off scheme, secured a job as JCB Government and Defence Contracts Manager.

 Former Derby High School student Hannah, of Burton-on-Trent, said: “I am still only 22 and I have a very interesting and responsible job with great career prospects. What is amazing is that I continue to be supported by some of the most experienced senior people at JCB as my career develops. To anyone thinking of applying for the 2023 apprentice and graduate intake I would say one thing: go for it. It is a decision I have never regretted.”

 Anyone interested in applying for the JCB Early Careers Programme should visit earlycareers.jcb.com