At a Glance
- Tasks: Support HR, finance, and communications while gaining hands-on experience.
- Company: Join a leading university's professional services team.
- Benefits: Earn a Level 3 Diploma and gain practical skills in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career with real-world experience and a nationally recognised qualification.
- Qualifications: Must be pursuing or planning to pursue a Level 3 Diploma in Business Administration.
- Other info: Applications close on 19th April 2026; fixed-term for 18 months.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 £ per year.
The Department of Chemical Engineering & Biotechnology is recruiting for a Business Support Apprentice to be part of the wider professional services team. The role holder will undertake training to provide support across areas such as HR, Reception, Safety, Finance, Communications, Outreach, and Student Administration. You would be expected to work to a high standard, with increasing initiative and manage your priorities in order to successfully meet deadlines. The role holder will gain practical administration experience and a nationally recognised qualification.
Responsibilities
- Coordinate HR processes: carry out HR administrative processes including recruitment and new starter processes, using university HR systems; assist the recruitment process by scheduling interviews, notifying successful and unsuccessful candidates and requesting candidate references; facilitate new starter processes by conducting HR inductions for new staff.
- Support the Safety Team with duties including assisting with office assessments, being a fire warden, and record keeping.
- Support the Reception Team, welcoming employees, students and visitors in a friendly way.
- Assist the Accounts Team.
- Provide backup for the Stores area; receive goods, review and approve supplier invoices, partake in stock take.
- Maintain accurate records, keeping staff and student files organised.
- Be involved in supporting any events, outreach activities and communications within the department.
Qualifications
The role holder will be undertaking, or anticipate undertaking, a Level 3 Diploma in Business Administration and Level 2 Functional Skills Maths and English via Cambridge Regional College.
Additional Information
Applications closing date 19th April 2026. Fixed‑term: 18 months. Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment. We particularly welcome applications from women and/or candidates from a BME background for this vacancy as they are currently under‑represented at this level in the University.
How to Apply
To apply, please click on the link below and submit your application via the Apprenticeships Website: https://www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk/apprenticeship/VAC2000021391. Please quote reference NQ49192 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
Contact
Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to Mr Vito Candela, HR Administrator.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Business Support Apprentice in Cambridge employer: Cambridge University Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology
Contact Detail:
Cambridge University Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Support Apprentice in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with current employees at the university. You never know who might give you a heads-up about an opportunity or refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the department and its projects. Show us that you’re genuinely interested in the role and how you can contribute to the team. Tailor your answers to highlight your skills relevant to HR, finance, and communications.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Do mock interviews with friends or family to build your confidence. Focus on common questions related to business support roles and think about how your experiences align with the responsibilities listed in the job description.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows us that you’re proactive and serious about landing this apprenticeship.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Support Apprentice in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Business Support Apprentice. We want to see how you can contribute to our team, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant experiences!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This will help us quickly see why you’re a great fit for the position.
Show Your Enthusiasm: Let your passion for the role shine through in your application! We love candidates who are excited about the opportunity to learn and grow with us. A bit of personality can go a long way in making your application memorable.
Follow the Application Instructions: Don’t forget to apply through our website and include the reference number NQ49192 in your application. Following instructions shows us that you can pay attention to detail, which is super important for this role!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cambridge University Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Make sure you understand the responsibilities of a Business Support Apprentice. Familiarise yourself with HR processes, safety protocols, and administrative tasks. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Since the role involves managing priorities and meeting deadlines, be ready to discuss how you stay organised. Bring examples of how you've successfully juggled multiple tasks in the past, whether in school or during any work experience.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the team, the training you'll receive, and the projects you'll be involved in. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you determine if the role is the right fit for you.
✨Practice Your People Skills
As you'll be interacting with students, staff, and visitors, practice your communication skills. Be friendly and approachable in your responses, and consider doing mock interviews with friends or family to build your confidence.