At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide first-line IT support and assist with systems and infrastructure projects.
- Company: Join Northern Ireland's largest independent law firm, Carson McDowell.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience while studying, with a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Exciting opportunities for career growth and professional development.
- Why this job: Combine your academic knowledge with real-world IT challenges and grow your skills.
- Qualifications: Must be enrolled in BSc (Hons) Computing Systems programme.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 € per year.
Work for Northern Ireland’s largest independent law firm.
Location: Belfast (Office-based)
OverviewCarson McDowell is Northern Ireland's leading commercial law firm, the law firm of choice for many of Northern Ireland's Top 100 companies and international companies doing business here. Our rich mixture of people, culture, heritage and reputation makes us who we are. Our continued success depends on attracting and retaining top talent across all areas of the business. We provide rewarding careers and a supportive working environment, allowing our people to maximise their potential and fulfil their ambitions.
This IT Apprentice role is designed specifically for students enrolled on the BSc (Hons) Computing Systems programme. The post provides structured, hands-on experience aligned to academic learning across software development, networking, databases, systems security, cloud, and professional practice. The IT Apprentice will deliver first-line IT support while contributing to infrastructure, systems, and improvement projects, developing practical competence that complements degree modules.
Key Purpose of the Role- Provide high-quality first-line IT support to users through a service desk.
- Apply academic knowledge from the Computing Systems programme to real-world IT environments.
- Develop professional, technical, and collaborative skills aligned with graduate outcomes.
This role actively supports learning outcomes from the BSc Computing Systems programme, including:
- Programming & Problem Solving: Applying logical troubleshooting, scripting, and automation concepts.
- Databases & Data: Supporting data-driven systems, queries, and reporting tasks.
- Client & Server-Side Systems: Understanding web-based systems, applications, and APIs.
- Networking: Exposure to enterprise networks, routing, switching, and secure connectivity.
- Systems & Security: Applying secure system design principles and operational security controls.
- Cloud & Virtualisation: Assisting with cloud services, virtual machines, and modern deployment practices.
- Professional Practice: Teamwork, documentation, ethical practice, communication, and service delivery.
Service Desk & User Support
- Provide first-line support via phone, email, in-person, and remote tools.
- Log, manage, prioritise, and resolve incidents and service requests using the IT Service Desk.
- Troubleshoot hardware, software, operating systems, and network connectivity issues.
Systems & Infrastructure Support
- Assist with installation, configuration, and maintenance of PCs, laptops, peripherals, printers, and mobile devices.
- Support Windows client and server environments; assist with user accounts and access management.
- Assist with LAN/WAN/VPN connectivity and basic network diagnostics.
Software, Development & Data Support
- Support standard business software, including Microsoft 365 and specialist applications.
- Assist with software rollouts and updates using centralised deployment tools.
- Apply foundational skills in databases (SQL), scripting, and automation where appropriate.
- Assist with basic web or internal application support aligned to client/server and full‐stack concepts.
Information Security & Compliance
- Support information security best practices in day-to-day operations.
- Assist with patch management, vulnerability remediation, and endpoint security tasks.
- Contribute to Cyber Essentials and ISO 27001 support activities.
Project & Continuous Improvement Work
- Contribute to IT projects, including hardware refreshes, system upgrades, cloud adoption, and process improvements.
- Apply structured problem-solving, documentation, and testing practices.
- Support initiatives related to networking, cloud platforms, data analytics, or automation as appropriate.
- Enrolment on BSc (Hons) Computing Systems
- Willingness to learn and apply academic knowledge in a professional setting.
IT Assistant (Computing Systems) in Belfast employer: Carson McDowell LLP
Carson McDowell, Northern Ireland's largest independent law firm, offers an exceptional working environment for IT Assistants, fostering a culture of support and professional growth. With a focus on hands-on experience aligned with academic learning, employees benefit from structured development opportunities in a collaborative atmosphere, all while being part of a prestigious firm that values its people and their ambitions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land IT Assistant (Computing Systems) in Belfast
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, meetups, or even online webinars related to IT. The more people you connect with, the better your chances of hearing about job openings before they’re advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Don’t just apply and wait! Follow up on your applications. A quick email or call can show your enthusiasm and keep you on their radar. Plus, it gives you a chance to ask any questions about the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common IT scenarios. Think about how you’d troubleshoot specific issues or explain technical concepts. We want you to shine when it’s your turn to impress!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you’ll find all the latest roles tailored for your skills and interests right there.
We think you need these skills to ace IT Assistant (Computing Systems) in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the IT Assistant role. Highlight relevant skills from your Computing Systems programme, like troubleshooting and networking. We want to see how your academic knowledge aligns with what we do!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share why you're passionate about IT and how you can contribute to our team. Be sure to mention any hands-on experience you've had that relates to the role.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, give examples of how you've tackled technical challenges in the past. We love seeing candidates who can think critically and apply their learning to real-world problems!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Carson McDowell LLP
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of computing systems, especially the areas mentioned in the job description like networking, databases, and systems security. Be ready to discuss how your academic learning can be applied to real-world IT environments.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your logical troubleshooting abilities. Think of examples from your studies or any practical experience where you successfully resolved an IT issue. This will show that you can apply your knowledge effectively.
✨Practice Communication
Since this role involves providing first-line support, practice explaining technical concepts in simple terms. You might be asked to describe how you would assist a user with a common IT problem, so clarity is key!
✨Be Ready for Teamwork Questions
This position values collaboration, so think about times you've worked in a team. Be prepared to share how you contributed to group projects during your studies, as well as how you handle challenges within a team setting.
