DevOps Apprentice

DevOps Apprentice

Apprenticeship 24340 - 30425 ÂŁ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Dive into scientific computing and manage critical infrastructure for groundbreaking research.
  • Company: Join UKRI India, a leader in scientific innovation and collaboration.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, 30 days holiday, and excellent learning opportunities.
  • Why this job: Be part of a team that supports world-class science and make a real impact.
  • Qualifications: GCSEs in Maths and English, enthusiasm for tech, and teamwork skills.
  • Other info: Gain hands-on experience with enterprise systems and mentorship from industry experts.

The predicted salary is between 24340 - 30425 ÂŁ per year.

Join to apply for the DevOps Apprentice role at UKRI India.

Position Details

  • Contract Type: Fixed-Term, 24 months
  • Hours: Full-time, 37 hours
  • Salary: ÂŁ24,340 per annum (rising annually throughout the apprenticeship)
  • Location: Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell Campus, Didcot, OX11 0QX
  • Closing Date: Sunday, 2nd February 2026
  • Interview Date: February 2026 / March 2026
  • Start Date: September 2026

About the Role

Are you fascinated by the backbone of scientific discovery – the powerful infrastructure that enables cutting‑edge research? Do you enjoy solving technical puzzles and want to be part of a team that supports world‑class science? As a DevOps Apprentice in our Scientific Computing Department, you will dive into the heart of large‑scale scientific computing, learning how to manage and maintain critical infrastructure and vast storage systems that underpin everything from particle physics to climate modelling. This role offers hands‑on experience with enterprise‑grade systems, mentorship from experts, and the chance to grow into a vital contributor to the UK’s scientific mission.

What You’ll Do

  • Assist in improving monitoring infrastructure for storage systems.
  • Contribute to the development and enhancement of storage orchestration layers.
  • Support daily operational tasks across storage services.
  • Gain hands‑on experience with automation, diagnostics, and system optimisation.
  • Collaborate with experienced engineers to maintain reliable and scalable storage platforms.
  • Respond to alerts from monitoring systems.
  • Collaborate on requests from other supported groups.
  • Work with colleagues to gather requirements and build new enterprise‑grade virtual machines.
  • Monitor, support and maintain the multi‑terabit networks underpinning Scientific Computing.
  • Monitor for operational issues and respond to automated alerts.
  • Propose and develop improved monitoring of complex services.
  • Work with team members and other groups to identify root causes of issues.
  • Test service improvements and collaborate with other team members to deploy them.
  • Collaborate with colleagues to understand the facilities and their requirements.

What You’ll Learn

The role of a DevOps Engineer is to enable organisations to get valuable working software out in front of active users, both external and internal, in a timely manner and optimised for delivery. The apprentice will learn about all aspects of the development and operations process – the design, build, test, implementation, release and continual iteration of products.

  • Scripting, coding and testing
  • Knowledge sharing and collaboration
  • Agile working methods
  • Release automation and orchestration
  • Cloud infrastructure
  • Security practices

Training Provider

DevOps Engineer – Level 4 Apprenticeship – LearnTech, delivered via remote weekly workshops.

Entry Requirements

  • GCSEs in Maths and English (Grade 4/C or above)
  • Level 3 qualifications such as: 2 A Levels (A‑C), BTEC Level 3, T‑Level or a previous Level 3 Apprenticeship
  • An awareness of basic health and safety
  • Enthusiastic and motivated to learn, both in the workplace and through formal training
  • Good written communication skills as demonstrated in your CV and cover letter
  • Some knowledge of and enthusiasm for computer hardware and/or software
  • Desire to work in a scientific computing environment
  • Ability to examine evidence and data to understand it and solve problems
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to work in a team
  • Technical requirements: Ability and desire to identify and automate repeated tasks for efficiency and accuracy; Passion in programming to develop, implement and improve applications; Programming skill in scripting languages such as Bash, Python, Ansible, PowerShell, or Perl.

Important Information

To complete the apprenticeship you will need evidence of passes at 9–4 or A*–C in GCSE (or equivalent) Maths and English. Residency eligibility criteria must be met – check eligibility before applying. The training provider will also ask you to complete an initial assessment during the application process; include any relevant transcripts. By applying, you give permission for your details to be shared with the training provider.

Employee Benefits

  • Salary will increase annually as you progress through the apprenticeship, in line with policy.
  • 30 days holiday (in addition to 10.5 bank holidays and privilege days).
  • Flexible working hours.
  • Excellent defined average salary pension scheme.
  • Accessible public transport links / free parking.
  • Excellent learning and development opportunities.
  • Cycle to work scheme.

How To Apply

Part of our application process involves submitting your CV and a cover letter. Your cover letter should address your suitability based on the essential criteria stated. Please note that we hold the right to close this vacancy early if a sufficient number of applications have been received. Online applications only are preferred. Submit a CV and cover letter that clearly outlines how you fulfill the criteria specified and your motivation for UKRI and the role. Include the job reference number in the filename of each document.

Additional Information

UKRI is not able to sponsor workers not eligible to work in the UK. At interview all shortlisted candidates must bring identification documents proving they hold or can obtain right to work in the UK. We are committed to equal opportunities and support diversity, inclusion, and equity (EDI) in the workforce. As a disability confident employer, we provide reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. Contact us at apprenticerecruitment@ukri.org for any questions. We will be in touch after the closing date.

DevOps Apprentice employer: UKRI India

UKRI India is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for aspiring DevOps professionals to immerse themselves in the forefront of scientific computing at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory. With a strong commitment to employee growth through hands-on experience, mentorship from industry experts, and a supportive work culture that values collaboration and innovation, you will thrive in an environment that not only encourages learning but also rewards your contributions with competitive benefits and flexible working arrangements.
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Contact Detail:

UKRI India Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land DevOps Apprentice

✨Tip Number 1

Get to know the company! Research UKRI India and their projects. This will help you tailor your responses during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in their work.

✨Tip Number 2

Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a friend or in front of a mirror. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform when it counts.

✨Tip Number 3

Show off your skills! If you've worked on any relevant projects or have experience with scripting languages like Python or Bash, be ready to discuss them in detail. Real-world examples can really impress.

✨Tip Number 4

Don't forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email. It shows professionalism and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.

We think you need these skills to ace DevOps Apprentice

Scripting in Bash
Python programming
Ansible
PowerShell
Perl
Automation of tasks
System optimisation
Monitoring infrastructure
Collaboration skills
Problem-solving skills
Understanding of computer systems
Knowledge of cloud infrastructure
Agile working methods
Security practices
Excellent written communication skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to explain why you're excited about the DevOps Apprentice role and how your experiences align with what we're looking for. Be genuine and let your passion for scientific computing come through!

Tailor Your CV: Don't just send a generic CV! Tailor it to highlight your relevant skills and experiences that match the job description. Include any personal or school projects that showcase your enthusiasm for computer systems and programming.

Show Off Your Communication Skills: Good written communication is key! Ensure your CV and cover letter are clear, concise, and free of errors. This is your opportunity to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively, which is super important in a team environment.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!

How to prepare for a job interview at UKRI India

✨Know Your Stuff

Make sure you brush up on the basics of DevOps and scientific computing. Familiarise yourself with key concepts like automation, orchestration, and cloud infrastructure. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show your enthusiasm and readiness for the role.

✨Show Your Passion

In your cover letter and during the interview, express why you're excited about this apprenticeship. Share any personal projects or experiences that demonstrate your interest in computer systems and programming. This will help you stand out as a motivated candidate.

✨Prepare for Technical Questions

Expect some technical questions related to scripting languages like Bash or Python. Practice explaining your thought process when solving problems or automating tasks. This will showcase your analytical skills and ability to think on your feet.

✨Ask Insightful Questions

At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready about the team, projects, or the company culture. This shows that you're genuinely interested in the role and helps you determine if it's the right fit for you.

DevOps Apprentice
UKRI India
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