Operations Apprentice – Sort & Ramp Hub Operations – 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: East Midlands Airport, Castle Donington, Derby
Contract Type: Apprenticeship (Fixed Term Contract)
Working Pattern: 17.00 – 01.30 flexibility will be required – 40 working hours per week
Salary: £22,785 per annum plus shift pay allowance for unsociable hours
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
You’ll get amazing benefits while building your future:
Competitive salary + shift allowance
Annual bonus
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 & Training ✈️
Spark – wellbeing support
About the Role
We are seeking motivated and reliable Operations Apprentice’s to join our Sort & Ramp Hub Operations team. This is an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a fast‑paced logistics environment while working towards a nationally recognised apprenticeship qualification.
The role provides practical exposure across sort and ramp activities, supporting the safe, accurate and timely movement of freight through the hub. You will be an integral part of the operation, learning core logistics and aviation/transport processes under the guidance of experienced colleagues.
Key Responsibilities ✈️
Sort Operations
- Assist with the accurate sorting, scanning, and labelling of shipments.
- Build and break down pallets, cages, and Unit Load Devices (ULDs).
- Ensure freight is routed to the correct destination within tight operational timelines.
- Identify and report damaged, misrouted, or non‑compliant shipments.
- Maintain high housekeeping standards to support a safe working environment.
Ramp Operations
- Support loading and unloading of aircraft and/or vehicles in accordance with load plans.
- Assist with ramp and airside activities under supervision (where applicable).
- Use ground support equipment once trained and authorised.
- Work closely with operational teams to support on‑time departures.
Health, Safety & Compliance
- Work in line with all Health & Safety, security, and operational procedures.
- Wear appropriate Personal Protection Equipment 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 course work.
- 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.
- 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
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.·
Career Progression
On successful completion of the apprenticeship, opportunities may be available in roles such as:
- Operations Agent (Sort or Ramp)
- Senior 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: Friday 10th July 2026
A quick heads-up before you apply!
As part of your application, you'll play a few short, fun games. They help us understand your strengths and behaviours. This means everyone gets a fair chance to show their potential, and you'll even get to see your results afterwards.
Please note: completing the games is required to be considered for the role.
Good luck!
Please note: Aviation roles require a full 5‑year background check + Criminal Record check (CAA regulation).
