At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop and enhance customer-facing applications while gaining hands-on experience.
- Company: Join a tech-driven design & print company with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn, gain practical experience, and secure a recognised qualification.
- Other info: 90% of apprentices secure permanent roles after completing the programme.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in software engineering with real-world projects and mentorship.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Software Development Apprenticeship or equivalent qualifications required.
The predicted salary is between 800 - 1400 £ per month.
About UYR: We are a technology-driven design & print company specialising in the design, development, and maintenance of customer-facing digital platforms. These include online ordering systems, artwork editing solutions, and a range of workflow automation tools. Our in-house software supports both internal operations and client interactions, ensuring an efficient, seamless experience across the business.
About the role: As a Software Engineer Apprentice, you will play an important role within our technology team, contributing to the design, development, and ongoing improvement of our software systems. You will gain hands-on experience across a wide range of development tasks, working closely with experienced engineers while completing your formal apprenticeship training.
Responsibilities:
- Software development: Support the development and enhancement of customer-facing applications such as online ordering systems and artwork editing tools. Assist in building and maintaining internal applications that underpin production workflows and other business processes.
- Standalone solutions: Contribute to the development of bespoke software solutions designed to meet specific business challenges.
- Problem solving & debugging: Diagnose, troubleshoot, and resolve issues within existing systems to maintain reliability, performance, and user satisfaction.
- User acceptance testing (UAT): Participate in UAT to verify application functionality, usability, and readiness for release.
- Data management: Work with spreadsheets, data input tasks, and basic analysis to support internal reporting and operational accuracy.
- System maintenance: Assist in routine system maintenance to ensure security, stability, and optimal performance.
- User support: Provide first-line technical assistance to internal users, helping resolve software-related queries and issues.
- Continuous learning: Keep up to date with new tools, technologies, and industry best practices, applying this knowledge to your development work and apprenticeship training.
Desirable skills:
- Strong work ethic and willingness to take initiative.
- Strong problem-solving abilities and an interest in developing a broad range of software engineering skills.
- Understanding of customer-facing applications and fundamental UI/UX principles.
- Basic understanding of debugging techniques and software troubleshooting.
- Familiarity with spreadsheets and general data management practices.
- Good communication skills and the ability to collaborate positively within a team.
- Keen to learn, take on challenges, and adapt to new technologies.
- Knowledge of C#, .NET, JavaScript, and HTML (essential).
Entry requirements:
The learner must have completed a Level 3 Software Development Apprenticeship with QA or have an equivalent qualification with another training provider OR an A-level in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) subject and a successful completion of our aptitude test OR a BTEC Diploma in IT and a successful completion of our aptitude test OR 2 years’ experience in a relevant role and successful completion of our aptitude test.
You may also have a combination of qualifications and experience which demonstrate the minimum foundation needed for the programme. In this instance you could still be considered for the programme. If you hold international equivalents of the above qualifications, at the time of your application you must be able to provide an official document that states how your international qualifications compare to the UK qualifications.
For more information please visit the UK ENIC website.
Working hours: 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 9:00am – 5:30pm.
Benefits:
- Gain practical, hands-on experience in a fast-paced and technology-focused design & print environment.
- Work on a diverse range of projects with increasing responsibility as your skills grow.
- Learn from an experienced team of software engineers and technical professionals.
- Develop real-world software engineering skills while completing a recognised Level 4 apprenticeship qualification.
Future prospects: 90% of QA apprentices secure permanent employment after completing: this is 20% higher than the national average.
About QA: Our apprenticeships are the perfect way to gain new skills, earn while you learn, and launch yourself into an exciting future. With over 50,000 successful apprenticeship graduates, we are a top 50 training provider, dedicated to helping you succeed.
Interested? Apply now!
Please be advised that this advert may close prior to the closing date stated above if a high number of applications are received. If you are interested in this vacancy please apply below as soon as possible.
Software Engineer Apprentice in Pontefract employer: QA
QA is an excellent employer that fosters a vibrant work culture in Newcastle upon Tyne, where apprentices are encouraged to thrive and develop their technical skills. With a strong emphasis on employee growth, this apprenticeship offers a clear pathway for career advancement while providing hands-on experience in a supportive environment. Join us to be part of a team that values enthusiasm and a passion for technology, ensuring a rewarding and meaningful career journey.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Software Engineer Apprentice in Pontefract
✨Join Local Tech Meetups
Get out there and mingle with fellow developers by joining local tech meetups. It’s a fantastic way to meet people who might be working at QA or know someone who does. Plus, you can pick up some trendy tech skills and trends while you're at it!
✨Contribute to Open Source Projects
Show off your coding chops by jumping into open-source projects. Not only does this give you practical experience, but it also gets you noticed in the dev community. You'll create a killer portfolio that speaks volumes about your skills to QA.
✨Tap into Online Developer Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online developer communities like GitHub, Stack Overflow, and even Reddit. Participate in discussions, share your projects, and build your visibility. We can often find opportunities through these channels that can lead to a full-time gig at companies like QA.
✨Explore Job Boards Specifically for Tech Roles
Keep your eyes peeled on job boards that focus on tech roles. Sites like TechCareers or Stack Overflow Jobs can often have listings for companies like QA that might not show up on broader job sites. Make it a habit to check these regularly, and don’t hesitate to apply directly through our website!
We think you need these skills to ace Software Engineer Apprentice in Pontefract
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show off your coding skills:When applying for a software engineering role, it's super important to showcase your coding skills. Make sure your CV includes your tech stack, any relevant programming languages you’re comfortable with, and examples of projects you've worked on. If you have a GitHub profile, link it up! We love to see code in action.
Tailor your portfolio:For a full-time role, we’d expect to see some solid examples of your work in your portfolio. Make sure to include at least two or three projects that highlight your problem-solving skills and your ability to work with different technologies. Focus on the projects that are most relevant to the position at QA.
Craft a killer cover letter:Your cover letter is your chance to stand out—make it personal! Explain why you want to work at QA and how your skills align with the role. Show us your passion for software development. We dig enthusiastic candidates who understand the value of collaboration and continuous learning!
Be clear and concise:When it comes to writing your CV and cover letter, clarity is key. Avoid jargon that could confuse us and stick to simple, direct language. Highlight your achievements with quantifiable results where possible, and keep everything easy to read. A well-organised application goes a long way!
How to prepare for a job interview at QA
✨Brush Up on Your Coding Skills
For a full-time software engineering role, it's crucial that we stay sharp with our coding abilities. Expect technical questions that might involve solving problems on the spot or discussing algorithms. Practise on platforms like LeetCode or HackerRank to get comfortable with the types of questions that often come up.
✨Know Your Tools and Frameworks
Make sure we’re well-acquainted with the tools and technologies listed in the job description. Familiarise ourselves with any specific frameworks or programming languages mentioned. If QA uses React or Node.js, for instance, be ready to discuss how we’ve used them in previous projects or coursework.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Bring along a portfolio that highlights our best work. This could be code samples, GitHub repositories, or any side projects we’ve built. Make sure we can talk through our thought process for each project, especially the challenges we faced and how we solved them—this shows our problem-solving skills in action.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
While technical skills are key, full-time positions also require cultural fit. Be ready to discuss our previous experiences and how we handle teamwork, conflict, and deadlines. Brush up on the STAR method—Situation, Task, Action, Result—to clearly articulate our past experiences when discussing how we've contributed to a team.
