At a Glance
- Tasks: Learn to build data pipelines and support platform migrations in a dynamic team.
- Company: Join DWP Digital, the tech arm of the UK's Department for Work and Pensions.
- Benefits: Earn up to £38,772 with flexible hours, hybrid working, and generous holiday.
- Other info: Enjoy professional development, mentoring, and a supportive community.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on vital services while developing your skills in data engineering.
- Qualifications: Two A levels in relevant subjects and experience with programming languages like Python.
Overview
At DWP Digital, we design and build the technology behind vital services like Universal Credit, pensions, and child maintenance. Our data engineers play a key role in ensuring these services are powered by reliable, high-quality data, helping teams make better decisions and improve outcomes for millions of people. As an apprentice, you\'ll join our Data Platforms and Operations team, working with cloud technologies like AWS and tools such as Informatica. You\'ll learn how to build and maintain data pipelines, support platform migrations, and help deliver data products that are secure, efficient, and user-focused. You\'ll be supported every step of the way by your line manager, skills coach, and the wider data community. You\'ll also get 20% of your working time dedicated to studying for your qualification, blending practical experience with structured learning.
Responsibilities
- Learn to build and maintain data pipelines and support platform migrations as part of the Data Platforms and Operations team.
- Contribute to delivering data products that are secure, efficient, and user-focused.
- Work with cloud technologies (e.g., AWS) and tools (e.g., Informatica).
Qualifications
- Two A levels in a relevant subject (e.g. Computer Science, IT, Maths, Data Engineering, Analytics, Statistics).
- A Level 3 apprenticeship or qualification in a similar subject.
- BTEC Extended Diploma or International Baccalaureate in a relevant field.
- Experience with programming languages such as Python.
- Equivalent work experience in a data-related role.
- You must not already hold a qualification at the same or higher level in a similar subject.
- You\'ll also need to work a minimum of 30 hours per week and pass Security Check clearance.
About DWP Digital
Knightsbridge, England, United Kingdom > 1000 employees. Corporate / Direct Employer. DWP Digital is the technology arm of the UK\'s Department for Work and Pensions, driving innovation to deliver essential services to millions. It uses cutting-edge digital solutions to improve efficiency, accessibility, and user experience in areas such as pensions, benefits, and employment support. Combining agile methods, data insights, and cloud technologies, DWP Digital transforms public services to better meet the needs of citizens. Its mission is to build a more inclusive, customer-centric welfare system, underpinned by robust and secure digital infrastructure.
Benefits
- Salary up to £38,772, plus 28.9% employer pension contributions.
- Hybrid working with 60% home working, flexible hours, and great work-life balance.
- Starting salary of £38,772 per annum with 24 days holiday, rising to 26 after 1 year, plus 9 bank holidays.
- Hybrid working arrangement with office time and work from home.
- Up to 3 extra days per month using flexi time.
- Flexible working, flexi hours and flexi days.
- Hybrid working: time in a hub with the team and time at home.
- Family-friendly policies, time off for volunteering and charitable giving.
- Initiatives to bring your authentic self to work with \"I Can Be Me in DWP\".
- Discounts and savings on shopping, fun days out and more.
- Interest-free loans to buy a bike or a season ticket.
- Sports and social activities; working in an award-winning environment and culture.
- Professional development, coaching, mentoring and career progression opportunities.
Level 5 Data Engineering Apprenticeship Programme in Birmingham employer: DWP Digital
DWP Digital is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee growth and well-being. As a Level 5 Data Engineering Apprentice, you'll benefit from a hybrid working model, flexible hours, and dedicated study time, all while contributing to vital public services that impact millions. With comprehensive professional development opportunities and a commitment to work-life balance, DWP Digital stands out as a rewarding place to launch your career in data engineering.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Level 5 Data Engineering Apprenticeship Programme in Birmingham
✨Get Involved in Data Science Communities
Dive into online forums like Kaggle or GitHub where data science enthusiasts hang out. Participating in competitions or contributing to open-source projects can really make you stand out and show off your skills!
✨Tap Into University Resources
Your uni career services are gold mines for apprenticeships! Attend any workshops or career fairs they host; you might just bump into employers looking to scout fresh talent for programmes like the one at DWP Digital.
✨Work on Real-World Data Projects
Create your own data science projects or collaborate with classmates on interesting datasets. This not only sharpens your skills but also gives you something to showcase during interviews, setting you apart from the competition.
✨Show Off Your Passion
Don’t just rely on formal applications! Write blog posts about your data science journey or share insights on social media. This can catch the eye of DWP Digital and show them you’re genuinely passionate about the field.
We think you need these skills to ace Level 5 Data Engineering Apprenticeship Programme in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Relevant Skills:For a data science apprenticeship, make sure to highlight your skills in statistics, programming (especially Python or R), and data visualisation tools. Mention any relevant projects or coursework where you've applied these skills, even if it’s just in a school setting!
Tailor Your Motivation:In your cover letter, focus on why you want to dive into data science specifically. Share how this apprenticeship aligns with your career goals and learning aspirations. Remember, this is about showing us at DWP Digital that you're eager to learn and grow in the data field!
Portfolio Power!:Even if it's an apprenticeship, having a small portfolio of your data projects can set you apart. Include any analyses, visualisations, or data science-related tasks you’ve completed, whether on your own or as part of your studies. This shows that you've got hands-on experience, which is super appealing.
Keep It Relevant and Concise:Your CV should be focused and relevant – keep it to one page if possible! Tailor it for the data science role by including specific coursework, skills, and any experience with data handling. If you’ve done any data-related activities in clubs or competitions, throw those in too—every bit counts!
How to prepare for a job interview at DWP Digital
✨Brush Up on the Basics
Before your interview with DWP Digital, we need to nail down the fundamentals of statistics and machine learning. As an apprenticeship candidate, they’ll be keen on your understanding of key concepts—so make sure you can talk about linear regression, classification, and maybe even some hands-on work with tools like Python or R.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Bring any portfolios or projects you've worked on that highlight your data analysis skills. Even if they're for school or personal projects, being able to demonstrate how you approached a problem, analysed data, and derived insights will give you a leg up. Don't just talk about the data—show them what you've done with it!
✨Get Comfortable with Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions that test your problem-solving skills! You might be asked to explain how you would approach a specific dataset or solve a classic data challenge. Practise explaining your thought processes clearly, as this will showcase your analytical abilities as well as your ability to communicate complex ideas.
✨Emphasise Your Willingness to Learn
As an apprentice, your eagerness to learn is your biggest asset. Be prepared to discuss what you're looking to gain from the apprenticeship at DWP Digital. Whether it's mastering new programming tools or applying theoretical knowledge to real-life problems, let them know you're all about growing your skills and contributing to the team!
