A project to upgrade London’s sewer system is searching for the next generation of engineers and construction workers looking for a career in the maritime sector.

The Thames Tideway Tunnel scheme is hosting an event for young people interested in the works, which will be among the UK’s biggest ever engineering feats.

Bosses are looking for ex-Armed Forces personnel, local unemployed people, school leavers seeking apprenticeships and existing marine workers looking for a new challenge.

Anyone heading the the jobs fair at the University of Greenwich's campus in Kent will be able to register their interest in job opportunities when construction starts in 2016.

Peter Green, chief executive of Jobs In Maritime, which is running the event, said: “We are committed to ensuring the Thames Tideway Tunnel project creates a lasting legacy for the people of Britain and in particular maritime workers, creating new jobs and lasting careers that continue beyond the construction of the tunnel.

“The events will give anyone interested in a maritime career the chance to find out more in an informal environment.”

Over the eight-year construction period, due for completion in 2023, the project will create thousands of jobs and will become London’s biggest employer.

“The River Thames has given me a fantastic career path and I know it can offer people great prospects and endless horizons...” - Thames Tideway Tunnels' Lewis Brown

Former river apprentice Lewis Brown, 29, is now operations director for Thames Tideway Tunnel and jointly owns and manages his own shipping company, Thames Shipping Ltd.

He said: “The opportunities on this river, London’s ‘liquid highway’, are endless.

“Londoners live with this thriving, exciting, commercial river right on their doorstep yet many have never considered the job opportunities it provides.

“I’d encourage anyone who has ever thought about a career in maritime to come along to one of these events and find out more.

“The River Thames has given me a fantastic career path and I know it can offer people great prospects and endless horizons.”

The event takes place at the Hawke Building in the School of Engineering at the University of Greenwich’s Chatham Maritime campus today from noon to 4.30pm.