Software Engineer Degree Apprentice - Digital Infrastructure

What will the apprentice be doing?

The Digital Infrastructure Group deliver first-class IT support and services that underpin the STFC scientific programme of activities and partner organisations. They provide a comprehensive network and communications environment to support the science undertaken by STFC.

This opportunity will gain first-hand experience working as part of a professional, but friendly team, supported by theoretical and practical learning. You will make an impact early on in the apprenticeship, where you'll also learn the specialist skills tailored to the knowledge, skills and behaviours required as a computing professional.

You'll also get to meet and collaborate with other departments and apprentices during the apprenticeship.

Responsibilities will include:

· Communicate and work with fellow team members on a daily basis

· Communicate with users, scientists, engineers and management to understand their requirements and translate these into a specification

· Take an active role in both technical and non-technical meetings

· Show initiative especially regarding learning new things

· Work independently at times and ask questions if unsure

· Take responsibility for ensuring your work does what is needed and meets the quality criteria specified

· Write documentation for technical and non-technical users

· Analyse evidence and data in order to solve problems

· Help deploy solutions to production and help provide support after release

· Use a variety of tools and technologies used by the teams to develop and manage software and computer systems

· Present a topic to a small group of people and answer questions

· Participate in the wider department and STFC apprentice training programme

· Partake in the promotion activities for STFC and STEM

Alongside this, the successful candidate will undertake professional development and training through a mix of day-release and block teaching with Manchester Metropolitan University completing the Digital Technology Solutions Professional Apprenticeship - Software Engineering. Travel expenses will be provided when attending in-person teaching.

What training will the apprentice take and what qualification will the apprentice get at the end?

Alongside this, the successful candidate will undertake professional development and training through a mix of day-release and block teaching with Manchester Metropolitan University completing the Digital Technology Solutions Professional Apprenticeship - Software Engineering. Travel expenses will be provided when attending in-person teaching.

The modules to complete will be a combination of general computing principles applicable to all occupational areas, with specialist units focused on the requirements of developing competencies in a Software Engineering role such as:

Year 1:

· Introduction to Programming

· Introduction to Business Systems

· Database Fundamentals

· Digital Technology in Organisations and Society

Year 2:

· IT Project Management

· Networks and Security

· Advanced Programming

· Introduction to Web Development

Year 3:

· Software Design and Architecture

· Full Stack Web Development

· Enterprise Programming

· Operating Systems

Year 4:

· Software Testing and Quality Assurance

· Portfolio

· Optional Unit*

· Synoptic Project

*a range of optional units will be available to choose from in your 3rd year

In the final year, you will also complete a work-based project before undertaking the End Point Assessment. The End Point Assessment will include a presentation between the university and STFC, covering the work-based project, your approach, outcome and the skills, knowledge and behaviours demonstrated. This will be assessed as part of the overall project assessment.

You will be supported in developing a portfolio of work-based projects to build and demonstrate the required skills, behaviours and knowledge required for this apprenticeship.

The qualifications that will be achieved are:

· BSc (Hons) in Digital & Technology Solutions

· Level 6 Digital & Technology Solutions Professional

What is the expected career progression after this apprenticeship?

Progression to permanent post within STFC

Requirements and prospects

Desired skills and personal qualities

Communication skills, Team working, Develop personally, Develop professionally, Good written skills, Knowledge of software, Knowledge - computer hardware, Right to live & work in the UK, Examine evidence and data, General knowledge of Windows, Knowledge of Apple, Knowledge of Android devices

Qualifications

GCSE or equivalent Various (5 Subjects including Maths and English) (Grade A*- C/9 - 4) Essential
A Level or equivalent Various (Grade BCC (104 UCAS Points)) Essential

Things to consider

With training and support from experts in their fields, you'll be enthusiastic about developing your knowledge, skills and behaviours, working towards completing your apprenticeship, gaining appropriate qualifications whilst making a real difference in your role. If working with innovative technologies on world-leading research isn't enough, you will develop both professionally and as a critical member of the team in an environment you won't find anywhere else. Our dedicated Apprenticeship Team will support you every step of the way, helping you make the most of your opportunities and to achieve the goals you already have - and those you have yet to discover! We provide an opportunity to really pursue your interests and passion. You'll have access to additional core skills development, access to a community of apprentices across the site, annual Apprentice awards evenings, a number of active sport and social groups across campus, and potential opportunities for overseas placements. STFC offers a benefits package crafted to provide an excellent work/life balance including 30 days' annual leave, an outstanding index linked pension scheme, 10.5 public and privilege days, Christmas closure and flexible working hours. For a list of our full benefits, please visit here.