At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to develop innovative data solutions for real-world client challenges.
- Company: PA Consulting, a leader in digital transformation and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, health perks, and 25 days annual leave.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and networking in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in AI and data analytics while studying for a Computing Science degree.
- Qualifications: A-levels or equivalent with a passion for data and technology.
The predicted salary is between 27500 - 27500 £ per year.
We believe in the power of ingenuity to build a positive human future. As strategies, technologies, and innovation collide, we create opportunity from complexity. Our teams of interdisciplinary experts combine innovative thinking and breakthrough technologies to progress further, faster. Our clients adapt and transform, and together we achieve enduring results.
PA are delighted to be recruiting Data and Decision Intelligence apprentices into our Belfast location again in 2027. We can offer you unique opportunities to develop your skills and gain hands-on experience in data-driven initiatives, including artificial intelligence (AI), where you'll be using contemporary coding platforms and modern tooling - working alongside our top digital talent.
Joining us as an Apprentice, you will work on a variety of real-life client projects, delivering innovative data-driven solutions to our clients' most critical business needs. During your time on the Apprenticeship at PA, you'll learn much of what it takes to be a top-notch Data and Decision Intelligence Consultant. You'll be coached and guided by experts and have countless opportunities to broaden your experience on challenging projects and programmes.
We have partnered with the University of Ulster, where you will study part-time for a Computing Science BSc alongside your apprenticeship in PA. You will be required to secure a place on this course to begin your apprenticeship with PA. Your application to UU is separate to your application to PA, and you must apply directly with UU to secure a place on their degree course.
Key Responsibilities:
- Working with a team of experienced data engineers, data scientists, analysts and strategists to understand client requirements and develop custom data solutions
- Learning and implementing new technologies and data and digital development best practices
- Participating in meetings with clients to understand their requirements and provide data-driven solutions
- Writing documentation and conducting training sessions to clients
- Pursue continuous personal development in data strategy, analytics and engineering
Qualifications We'd like you to bring:
- Working towards or having achieved CCC in A-levels or equivalent, ideally one in STEM background
- A passion for data or technology that features in your personal projects
- Desirable to have a knowledge of both relational and non-relational databases, such as SQL and NoSQL, and/or familiarity with programming, such as Python, R, and SQL
- Open to change, driven to succeed, hungry for new challenges and eager to broaden your understanding of the world
- Thrive in dynamic teams, build strong relationships with clients and peers, and support others to succeed
- Comfortable in high-performance environments, with excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
- Demonstrate strong problem-solving abilities, innovative thinking and the flexibility to adapt your style and approach
- Show strong workplace etiquette by being punctual, dependable and respectful of business expectations and office conduct
Our Offer:
- The opportunity to work alongside and learn from talented colleagues on real client challenges from the start
- The support and coaching to grow your data analytical skills and experience on real client work, tackling real world technical and business challenges
- The opportunity to work across all areas of the development lifecycle, from strategy to implementation, and to take on assignments in different sectors
- The opportunity to provide high-level technical designs in collaboration with business analysts, data engineers, data scientists, data architects and data strategists
- A broad rich base of experience from which to build an outstanding career in data and digital
- Full time role with time allowed - 20% to participate in your apprentice programme
- Hybrid working - you'll be in the office or on client site a minimum of 2 days per week
- Salary potential: £27,500 per annum
- This role will start in September 2027
A career at PA is what you make of it - so power your curiosity and prepare to make an impact.
Please be aware that some of our UK roles at PA Consulting require a UK security clearance. All PA people are required to undergo background checks and to achieve the Baseline Personnel Security Standard however, some UK roles also require higher levels of National Security Vetting, where applicants must have at least 5 years of continuous residency in the UK.
We're focused on building a workplace that values human difference and diverse mindsets, and a culture of inclusion and equality that unlocks the potential in our people so everyone can be their best self.
We welcome applications from underrepresented groups.
2027 Apprentice - Digital (Data and Decision Intelligence) - Belfast employer: PA Consulting
At PA Consulting, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture. As a Data Architect, you will have the opportunity to lead transformative projects in a hybrid working environment, allowing for flexibility while engaging with clients and colleagues. We are committed to your professional growth, offering continuous learning opportunities and the chance to work on cutting-edge AI-driven data solutions that make a real impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 2027 Apprentice - Digital (Data and Decision Intelligence) - Belfast
✨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 PA Consulting.
✨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 PA Consulting and show them you’re genuinely passionate about the field.
We think you need these skills to ace 2027 Apprentice - Digital (Data and Decision Intelligence) - Belfast
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 PA Consulting 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 PA Consulting
✨Brush Up on the Basics
Before your interview with PA Consulting, 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 PA Consulting. 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!
