Software Engineering Apprentice in Farnborough

At QinetiQ we are creating a workplace that is inclusive; where our differences are not only embraced but make us stronger. A place where we can connect with each other and benefit from the experiences and thinking from people with varied backgrounds, and at different stages in their careers.

Role Purpose: You will perform a wide variety of software tasks to support the delivery of projects across the software profession. You will work effectively with external clients and internal teams and, as part of a team, you will help design, implement and deliver new features and maintain existing software. You will be given 20% of your working week to cover University commitments as you work towards a degree.

Examples of areas that you could be contributing to:

• Contributing to some of the most challenging, high profile science and technology programmes in the UK and overseas.
• Developing training & simulation systems to prepare and develop our armed forces.
• Supporting test and evaluation activities for novel equipment trials and military exercises both in the UK and internationally.
• Delivering systems that monitor and protect our critical national infrastructure.
• Developing autonomous air, land and maritime vehicles for military and humanitarian use.
• Engineering embedded systems that enable robust global navigation or determination of radar or sonar signatures.

Key Accountabilities:

• Software Design & Development
• Follow corporate software development processes
• Adhere to the relevant coding standards.
• Investigate and fix small software defects
• Participate in code reviews
• Production of user documentation
• Inputting to software product development roadmaps
• Delivery of technical output to time, cost and quality
• Adhere to the QinetiQ Values
• Start to develop specific communication skills, e.g presentation skills, report writing skills and the positioning of advice to customers.
• Being working towards membership of an appropriate professional body, or similar accreditation.
• Submit timesheets on a weekly basis
• Attend team meetings and Q Talks
• Complete all mandatory training as instructed
• Maintain record of competency on Learning Zone
• Solicit feedback at the end of each project via PDR system
• Raise work concerns / issues to your line manager immediately.
• Self-aware for signs of stress and ensure this is communicated to your line manager immediately.

Key Capabilities/Knowledge:

• Have a strong interest and/or experience within Software Engineering.
• Some knowledge of at least 1 object-oriented software language.
• Good problem-solving ability.
• Any work experience within a computing or engineering industry is beneficial.
• Extra-curricular &/or hobbies in Software Engineering or Computer Science is beneficial.
• Any Agile, Cloud, DevOps or embedded software experience is beneficial.

Experience and Qualifications: You will need to have obtained or be studying towards a minimum of 104-112 points at A-Level (Grades BBC) OR an equivalent e.g. BTEC DMM. This must include Maths and a Science related subject. You must also have at least a grade 4 (C) in Maths & English Language.

How to apply: Please fill in the application and include both a CV and a covering letter.

Our Benefits (the list is not exhaustive):

• On demand learning, access to courses, modules, and lectures via multiple digital learning platforms
• 25 days annual holiday excluding bank holiday
• Matched contribution pension scheme, with life assurance
• Flexible Benefits package
• Employee discount portal
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Employee-led networks

Security: Many of our roles at QinetiQ are subject to national security vetting. Applicants who already hold the appropriate level of vetting may be able to transfer it upon appointment, subject to approval. Many roles are also subject to restrictions on access to information, which means factors such as nationality, previous nationalities held and the country in which you were born may impact your role. Please note that all applicants for this role must be eligible for SC clearance, as a minimum.

Recruitment Process: We want to make sure that our recruitment process is as inclusive as possible and we aspire to bring out the best in our candidates by creating an environment where everyone feels valued, heard and supported. If you have a disability or health condition that may affect your performance in certain assessment types, please speak to your recruiter about potential reasonable adjustments.

QinetiQ is a place where you’ll be able to make a real difference. You’ll be part of an inclusive culture that values diversity, rewards integrity and merit, and where you’ll be empowered to fulfil your potential. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds, come and be part of our team!

Closing date for new applicants: 22nd May 2026