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Frequently asked questions

Application process

When do applications open?

​​​​Most of our Emerging Talent roles open in September for a start the following year. However, additional opportunities may be advertised throughout the year depending on business needs. If the role you’re interested in isn’t currently available, we recommend checking back regularly to stay up to date. You can view our current vacancies on the Mace Consult and Mace Construct pages. 

When do applications close?

We don’t have fixed closing dates – our recruitment is ongoing, and most roles are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Applying early gives you the best chance of being successful. Even if a vacancy lists a closing date, please note this is only a guide and may change depending on application volumes.

When is the best time to apply?

The earlier you apply, the better your chance of securing a role in your preferred discipline and location. Applications typically open in September, and many roles are filled by March — with the most popular opportunities sometimes closing as early as November-December.

To give yourself the best chance, we recommend applying as soon as possible once applications open.

Can I submit more than one application?

Due to the high volume of applications we receive, you can only apply for one role across Mace Consult and Mace Construct. Please take time to review our vacancies and select the opportunity that best fits your skills, ambitions, and interests.

Each advert clearly indicates whether it’s with Mace Consult or Mace Construct, so do check this before applying. If you submit more than one application, our team will contact you to confirm which role you’d like to continue with – which may delay your application.

Can I send you my CV?

To ensure a fair and consistent process for everyone, we don’t accept CVs or cover letters for our Emerging Talent programmes. Instead, our online application form asks for all the information we need to assess your suitability for the role.

I’ve applied to a programme but would like to change to another one. What should I do?

We encourage you to apply for the role that best matches your interests and career goals. However, if you’d like to discuss transferring your application, please contact us:

How can I edit my application?

You can log into your account at any time to update your application while it’s in progress. However, if you make a significant change that could affect your application, please also let us know by contacting:

Applications have now closed for the role I wanted to apply for. Can I still be considered?

We’re sorry to hear you missed out on the role – we understand how disappointing that can be. Unfortunately, once a vacancy has closed, we’re unable to accept any further applications.

Our Emerging Talent roles attract a high number of candidates, and we work to strict timelines to ensure a fair and efficient process for everyone. We encourage you to keep an eye on our vacancies pages, as roles may reopen or new opportunities may become available:

We update these pages with new openings throughout the year, so it’s worth checking back often to see what’s next.

I haven’t been successful. When can I apply again?

We understand it can be disappointing to learn that your application hasn’t been successful. We encourage you to take some time to reflect on the experience and any feedback you’ve received before reapplying.

You can only submit one application per academic year, so if you’re still interested in joining us, you’ll need to wait until applications reopen in September to apply again. Each new application is reviewed on its own merit, giving you a fresh opportunity to show us your potential.

I have a disability or long-term health condition and need adjustments to complete the application process. Can you support me with this?

Absolutely – we’re happy to make adjustments to support you through our recruitment process. As an accredited Disability Confident Employer and a proud supporter of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme, we’re committed to ensuring everyone has equal access to our opportunities and the chance to perform at their best.

Examples of adjustments we’ve provided include extra time for assessments, live closed captions during virtual assessment centres, additional breaks, and adjusting font size or colour on assessment materials to meet individual needs.

If you’d like to discuss any support or adjustments, please contact our Emerging Talent Recruitment Team using the relevant email below. You can share as much or as little information as you’re comfortable with, in your own time – we monitor these inboxes daily (Monday to Friday). Rest assured, any information you share will be treated in confidence and used only to help us provide the right support

If it’s easier, you can click on the email addresses above to launch a pre-populated email that you can personalise before sending.

What are the minimum requirements for your programmes?

Our Apprenticeship Programme requirements are:

  • 5 GCSEs at grade 4/C or above, including Maths and English (or equivalent qualifications)
  • 96 UCAS points (a small number of roles may require higher UCAS points or have additional requirements – please check this on the job advert before applying) 

Our Graduate Programme requirements are:

  • GCSE Maths and English at grade 4/C or above (or equivalent qualifications)
  • An undergraduate degree of any grade (many of our opportunities welcome any degree background, although some technical roles may require specific subjects – please check this on the job advert before applying) 

Our Industrial Placement Programme requirements are:

  • GCSE Maths and English at grade 4/C or above (or equivalent qualifications)
  • On a sandwich course looking for a work placement for your penultimate year (many of our opportunities welcome any degree background, although some technical roles may require specific subjects – please check this on the job advert before applying) 

Our Summer Placement Programme requirements are:

  • GCSE Maths and English at grade 4/C or above (or equivalent qualifications)
  • In your first, second, or penultimate year of your degree (many of our opportunities welcome any degree background, although some technical roles may require specific subjects – please check this on the job advert before applying) 

For all of our programmes, you must also have the right to live and work in the country to which you’re applying.

What degree background do you look for?

We welcome applications from candidates with all degree backgrounds for many of our roles. However, some technical positions may require specific qualifications or experience. Before applying, please check the job advert carefully for any particular requirements related to the role.

What skills are you looking for?

Check out our who we are looking for page where you can find out more about the competencies and values that we look for in our candidates, along with how to demonstrate them effectively in your application.

I don’t meet the minimum requirements. Can I still apply?

We understand that there may be circumstances that make it difficult to meet the minimum entry requirements. If this applies to you, we encourage you to get in touch with our Emerging Talent Recruitment Team to share a bit more about your situation. We’ll review this carefully and let you know if we’re able to consider your application.

 

I completed my studies some time ago. Can I still apply?

Yes! You’re still welcome to apply for one of our Emerging Talent programmes. We review all applications equally, regardless of when you completed your studies.

You may just want to consider whether the salary level and programme structure are right for you, as these roles are designed for those at the early stages of their career.

If you already have some professional experience, you might also like to explore our experienced hire opportunities:

What’s the application process, and how long does it take?

You can find a step-by-step overview of what to expect, along with useful tips and advice, on our application process page.

Timelines can vary depending on the role, the number of applications we receive, and the scheduling of assessment centres, but we’ll always keep you updated as your application progresses.

When will I find out if I’ve made it to the next stage of the process?

We know how important timely updates are and aim to keep you informed as soon as possible at each stage. Timelines can vary depending on the role, the number of applicants, and the scheduling of assessment centres.

Please keep an eye on your email and phone, as this is how we’ll contact you. All communication will come from emergingtalent.consult@macegroup.com, emergingtalent.construct@macegroup.com, or another member of our team.

I’m having trouble with my video interview. What should I do?

We’re sorry to hear you’re having trouble with your video interview. If you haven’t already, take a look at our provider’s Help Centre (you’ll find the link in your invite email), where you can access troubleshooting tips and answers to common technical questions. They also offer an instant messaging service during office hours for real-time support.

Sometimes switching to a different device or internet browser can quickly resolve the issue. If you’re still experiencing difficulties after trying these steps, please contact us at:

I won’t be able to meet the deadline for my video interview, or I’ve already missed it. Can this be extended?

We recommend completing your interview within the stated timeframe wherever possible. Roles progress quickly, so submitting early can help keep your application moving.

We do understand that unexpected things can come up. If you think you’ll miss the deadline – or already have – please email us as soon as you can, explaining your circumstances and when you expect to complete the interview. We’ll review extension requests on a case-by-case basis.

 

I’ve been invited to attend an assessment centre, but I can’t make it. Is there another one I can join?

We fill our roles on a first-come, first-served basis, therefore attending the earliest assessment centre gives you the best possible chance of securing a place. For most roles, we aim to fill all available positions at that assessment centre, so there may not be a further one scheduled.

If you can make arrangements to attend, we strongly encourage you to do so to avoid missing out. However, if attending really isn’t possible, please email us to explain your situation, and we’ll review whether an alternative date may be available – though we can’t guarantee this.

 

If I change my mind and decide to take a year out, can I defer my offer?

If you’re considering deferring your start date, we recommend applying in a future recruitment cycle that aligns with when you’d like to start. While we understand that plans can change after receiving an offer, deferral requests are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and depend on business needs at the time.

If you’d like to discuss your situation, please get in touch with our Emerging Talent Recruitment Team:

 

 

If I have any questions before, during, or after the process, how can I contact you?

You can get in touch with us at any stage of the process – we’re always happy to help. Our Emerging Talent inboxes are monitored daily (Monday to Friday):

While you're with us

What are the start dates for the programmes?

Our Graduate and Apprenticeship programmes usually start at the beginning of September, while our Industrial and Summer Placement programmes begin at the end of June.

We’ll confirm your exact start date when we issue your offer. To ensure a smooth start to your induction and training, we recommend being available from your official start date. Some roles may offer an earlier start, which will be stated in the job advert or discussed at offer stage.

If I’m successful, where will I work?

Mace Consult

We have offices, projects, and client locations across multiple regions, so your base location will depend on the specific role you apply for. The location for each vacancy is listed in the job advert, and you’ll usually remain based there for the duration of your programme.

While you may be primarily based in one of our Mace offices or on a client site, the nature of our work means you may sometimes need to travel to other offices or project locations.

We recommend applying for a location that’s practical for you – somewhere you can comfortably commute to or relocate to, if required.

Mace Construct

Our Construct roles are typically site-based, meaning you’ll be working on-site full time for the duration of your programme. The specific site location will be listed in the job advert.

Some flexibility and occasional travel between sites may be required, so please ensure you apply for a location that’s realistically commutable for you or one you’d be willing to relocate to if needed.

Do you offer relocation assistance?

Unfortunately, we’re not able to provide financial support for relocation at this time. However, our Emerging Talent community is always happy to offer advice if you’re moving to a new area. They can share insights on local transport, housing, and community life, helping you settle in smoothly.

Once you’ve accepted your offer, we’ll also connect you with your future cohort – many of our trainees choose to share accommodation or travel together, which can make the transition much easier.

Will there be much travel involved?

Mace Consult

Travel can be a key part of many Consult roles. You may be asked to visit different Mace offices, project sites, or client locations – sometimes within the UK, and occasionally overseas. The amount of travel will vary depending on your project and role, but we’ll always give you as much notice as possible to plan accordingly.

Mace Construct

Most Construct roles are site-based, so you’ll typically work at a single project location. However, depending on project needs, there may be occasions where you’re asked to visit other sites or attend meetings at nearby offices or locations.

While some travel may be required, it’s not guaranteed and will depend on the nature of your role and project.

Are there opportunities to be seconded abroad?

Mace Consult

We want our graduates and apprentices to build a strong foundation in the country where they’re based before exploring international opportunities. For that reason, all of our programmes are based locally for the full duration of the programme.

After successfully completing your programme, you’ll have the opportunity to apply for global roles and secondments through our internal Global Opportunities Portal.

Mace Construct

Most of our clients and projects in Mace Construct are based in the UK, so opportunities to work abroad in this area are limited. Our Construct programmes are UK-based for their full duration, giving you valuable, hands-on experience delivering some of the country’s most exciting construction projects.

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Mace Consult

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Mace Construct

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Application process

Learn how to apply and get advice for every stage with our comprehensive guide.

Who we are looking for

Discover the skills and behaviours that are important to us.