Data Scientist 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.

About The Team

Data Science & Engineering: Our role is to ensure our customers gain the maximum advantage from their data. We are involved at all stages of the data lifecycle from the initial gathering & processing stage, through the analysis phase, leading to actionable outputs & advice. The Data Science and Engineering teams within Software Engineering, Communication Networks & Data Science (SECNDS) discipline consist of a mix of data scientists (exploring data sets and algorithms) and data engineers (building the infrastructure to capture and process the data). The team’s skills however are varied and cover a wide range of disciplines. Our daily work involves applying both conventional and novel machine learning techniques to customer problems as appropriate to advise on and/or demonstrate the opportunities created through exploiting their data.

What will I be doing?

The team works across all data types, everything from numerical data to natural language processing and signals analysis through to imagery interpretation. Where necessary, we also collect or simulate data using mathematical models. A typical day will see our apprentice working as part of small project teams. I will attend project meetings, be involved in data preparation, and apply the relevant Machine Learning or Artificial Intelligence techniques. Over time, I will be expected to code up solutions to support this work, and to integrate with the team’s coding best practices. I may occasionally be involved in stakeholder engagements or presentations, and I will often help with the report writing process. My days can have a mixture of on site and home working, depending on the specific project’s data requirements. We frequently collaborate with colleagues and subject experts across the business to gain cross-domain insight to support our work. In this role I will gain practical experience in the full end to end data pipeline from data collection, data wrangling and modelling through to generating conclusions and results. I will gain knowledge of statistical techniques such as supervised and unsupervised machine learning algorithms, develop programming skills in Python and for the Cloud, as well as general data analysis techniques. I will also gain soft skills such as planning, technical report writing, and presenting.

Apprenticeship Details

• Title: Level 6 Data Scientist Apprenticeship
• Qualification: BSc (Hons) Data Science
• Course provider: Cranfield

Academic Requirements

• Grade 5 in GCSE Mathematics or equivalent
• Grade 4 in GCSE English Language or equivalent (prior to admission) with GCSE at A-Level to include Maths. We will not accept A-Levels Citizenship Skills, General Studies, and Critical Thinking.
• Or Level 4 Data Analyst apprenticeship at Merit or Distinction.

Additional Requirements

• Must be able to travel to the training provider for the academic elements of the Level 6 Apprenticeship. Expenses for travel will be reimbursed in line with our expenses policy.
• Some understanding of statistics (statistical analysis) and/or mathematical modelling.
• Some experience of programming in at least one coding language e.g. Python, R, C++.
• Some familiarity or experience with basic coding best practices e.g. version control and code quality.

Beneficial

• Experience with any cloud computing platform
• Machine learning or data analysis project experience (through academia or personal projects)
• Evidence of soft skills, including examples of working in a team, technical communication (written or oral)

Benefits

• On demand learning, access to courses, modules, and lectures via multiple digital learning platforms
• Coaching and Mentoring
• 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. All applicants for this role must be eligible for SC clearance, as a minimum. Further guidance regarding clearances can be found: UKSV National Security Vetting Solution: guidance for applicants - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) Under immigration rules, our Early Careers roles do not meet the legal threshold for candidates who are resident in the UK on student visas.

Closing date for new applicants: 22nd May 2026