Apprentice - Software Tester in Salford

Workplace: Manchester (some occasional travel to London and Leeds required)

Department: Group Technology

Working pattern: Hybrid (1-2 days in the office, 3-4 at home)

Duration: 18-20 months (This is a full time role from Monday to Friday)

Contract: Fixed Term Contract

Qualification: L4 Software Tester

Hiring range: £27,405

The team provides technical solutions that underpin everything we do at ITV, such as the networks we run on, the devices we use, and key software products used across the business. The Product Management Team delivers bespoke software to service Group level functions such as Finance and HR.

The role is responsible for ensuring the quality of the developed software products, and that they meet the specified requirements. Responsibilities include:

• Pairing with other testers, developers, and business analysts to learn aspects of the software products
• Performing exploratory testing to verify system behaviour and uncover defects
• Tracking and investigating issues identified by automated regression tests
• Writing automated tests to assure our products remain correct over their lifetime
• Performing tests against service APIs, user interfaces, databases, and code units as appropriate
• Working with the developers to ensure the quality of the solution as it is being built
• Taking part in team meetings to effectively share progress
• Learning software development and testing tools and techniques

You will learn to:

• Apply structured approaches and techniques to perform system level testing of software products
• Write and maintain automated tests using Java and/or Javascript/Typescript
• Analyse business requirements to extract key priorities and identify edge cases
• Design and build test cases to efficiently cover business requirements
• Follow agile software development methodologies to collaborate with team members and stakeholders
• Appreciate testing activities performed throughout the entire software development lifecycle
• Work with Cloud platforms such as AWS and GCP
• Manage tasks and defects using collaboration tools
• Process and interpret test results, and other related data
• Use source control and continuous integration tools

Skills you’ll need (minimum criteria):

• Problem solving & thinking
• Analytical mindset with logical reasoning and a structured approach to solving problems
• Rigorous approach with strong attention to detail
• Awareness of software development through study, work, or personal projects (JavaScript/TypeScript or Java preferred)
• Demonstrable interest in technology or engineering

Working style:

• Able to follow direction and learn from others
• Comfortable working independently and as part of a team
• Positive, proactive attitude with a willingness to learn

Communication:

• Clear communication and good interpersonal skills

Other things we’re looking for (key criteria):

• Genuine interest in the industry
• Genuine curiosity about media technology and how content moves from source to screen at ITV
• Growth mindset
• Motivation to continuously learn, including programming languages such as Python or Java and emerging cloud technologies
• Adaptable and open to new tools, techniques, and ways of working

Organisation & ways of working:

• Strong time management and ability to balance project work with apprenticeship study requirements
• Comfortable contributing in collaborative environments such as Agile ceremonies

Ownership & initiative:

• Self-starter who explores problems, asks questions, and looks for ways to improve processes

Eligibility/Entry Criteria:

• GCSE Grades (or equivalent) C/4 or above in English and Maths plus 2 other subjects and a minimum of a pass at Level 3 (or equivalent) qualification
• You have lived within the UK/EEA for a minimum of 3 years consecutively
• You meet the entry criteria for the apprenticeship as listed above
• You have not completed a degree/same level qualification in a similar subject to the role you are applying for
• You cannot have achieved the qualification already and you must not already be in full time education at the point of enrolment

Your application will be assessed clearly as outlined on the application form. At ITV, we appreciate the use of technology for research during the application process. We understand that AI tools can be valuable resources. However, we value authenticity and expect applicants to showcase their own thoughts and experiences.

Applications can be made for this scheme online. If you are shortlisted to the second stage, you will be invited to attend an ITV Experience workshop. This will be held across March/April 2026 (subject to change) & will be a face to face Experience day.

Closing date: 13th March 2026

Your work matters to millions. Shaping culture is in the DNA of ITV. When you join us, you enter a fun working environment with opportunities to learn, to grow and make a real difference.

ITV strongly encourages applications for this role from disabled people. As a Disability Confident Leader, if you meet the minimum criteria for a role and you have declared that you are disabled, we’ll guarantee to take you to the next stage.

Because those who make an impact deserve to be rewarded for it. ITV offers some great rewards and benefits including flexible working, generous holiday allowance, annual bonus opportunity, competitive pension contribution, and wellbeing and volunteering days.