DHL Express
Operations Apprentice
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Supply Chain Warehouse Operative Apprenticeship – fixed term contract 15 months
Kick start your Career with the World’s Best Workplace™ 🌍✨
At DHL, our people are our superpower. Every colleague helps keep us the No.1 Express Delivery & Logistics Company worldwide — and we’re proud to be named the World’s Best Workplace™.
Location:
DHL Aviation, Heathrow Airport, Hounslow, TW6 3SJ
Contract Type:
Apprenticeship (Fixed Term Contract)
Working Pattern:
Shift pattern 15.00 – 00.00 flexibility will be required – 40 working hours per week Monday to Friday
DHL connects 220+ countries with a team of 500,000+ people — and we’re passionate about supporting future talent through an inclusive, diverse workplace. ❤️💛
Why You’ll Love Working with us
- Competitive salary + shift allowance
- Annual bonus (up to 5%)
- Free onsite parking 🅿️
- My DHL Rewards – discounts at 3,000+ retailers 🛍️
- Pension (up to 6% company contribution)
- Share Purchase Plan 📈
- Private medical (after 12 months)
- Enhanced Maternity Pay
- Cycle to Work Scheme 🚴
- CIS Induction Week ✈️
- Spark – wellbeing support 💬
About The Role
We are seeking a motivated and reliable Operations Apprentice to join our Operational team. This is an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced logistics environment while working towards a nationally recognized apprenticeship qualification.
The role provides practical exposure across Operational activities, supporting the safe, accurate, and timely movement of freight through the hub. You will be an integral part of the team, learning core logistics and aviation/transport processes under the guidance of experienced colleagues.
Key Responsibilities ✈️💻
Sort Operations
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- Assist with the manual and automated sorting of shipments to correct destinations.
- Scan, label, and load freight using operational IT systems.
- Build and break down Unit Load Devices (ULDs), pallets, and cages in line with procedures in line with ULD Build principles.
- Ensure freight is handled in accordance with service, security, and customs requirements.
- Identify, report, and escalate damaged or misrouted shipments.
- Maintain housekeeping standards (5S) within the sort area to support safety and efficiency.
- Supporting with operations administration.
- Ability to support Operations Supervisors with CIS Facilitation.
- Working alongside Operations Managers in analyzing Operational KPI Data.
- Champion processing efficiencies.
- Identify, report & escalate Health & Safety breaches / near miss. Assist with ICARE investigations.
- Attend local operations meetings.
- Work collaboratively with ramp agents, supervisors, to meet departure schedules.
Health, Safety & Compliance
- Work in line with all Health & Safety, security, and operational procedures.
- Wear appropriate PPE and follow safe manual handling techniques.
- Report hazards, incidents, and near misses promptly.
- Comply with regulatory and company standards at all times.
Learning & Development
- Complete all elements of the apprenticeship programme, including off the job training and coursework.
- Take responsibility for personal learning, development, and performance.
- Gather workplace evidence and participate in assessments as required.
- Rotate across operational areas to build broad hub knowledge.
What We’re Looking For 🌟
Essential
- A positive attitude and willingness to learn.
- Ability to work as part of a team in a time-critical environment.
- Good attention to detail and ability to follow processes accurately.
- Flexibility to work shifts, including nights, weekends, and bank holidays where required.
- Physically able to undertake manual handling tasks.
- Willingness to complete required security and background checks.
- Age 18 years plus, due to working shift times and environment (there is no upper age limit for apprenticeships).
- Ability to follow instructions.
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Desirable
- GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Maths grade 4+.
- Interest in logistics, operations, or aviation/transport environments.
- Basic IT skills.
What We Offer
- A structured apprenticeship programme with on and off the job training. Supply Chain Warehouse Operations – Level 2 apprenticeship.
- Practical experience within a busy hub operation.
- Support, coaching, and mentoring from experienced colleagues.
- Opportunities for career progression upon successful completion of the apprenticeship.
- A safe, inclusive, and supportive working environment.
- Grade: P - £22,785 per annum plus shift pay allowance of up to £4,399 per annum
Career Progression
On successful completion of the apprenticeship, opportunities may be available in roles such as:
- Operations Agent
Apply your CV
with a full 5-year history, including work, education, and any gaps over 28 days.
Internal applicants must inform their manager before applying.
🗓️ Closing Date: 28th July 2026
What Happens Next
- You’ll receive an email confirming receipt of your CV.
- Our Talent Team will arrange a short pre-screen call.
- You’ll take part in an interview — share your proudest achievements!
Have questions?
🛂 Please note: Aviation roles require a full 5-year background check + Criminal Record check (CAA regulation).
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