Business Administration Apprentice in Warrington

Contract Type: Fixed‑Term, 24 months

Salary: £19,514 per annum (rising annually throughout the apprenticeship)

Hours: Full‑time, 37 hours per week

Location: Daresbury Laboratory, Keckwick Lane, Daresbury, WA4 4AD

Closing Date: Sunday, 2nd February 2026

Interview Dates: Feb 2026 / Mar 2026

Start Date: September 2026

Kick‑start your career in Business Administration with an exciting apprenticeship in our expanding Scientific Computing Department. You’ll play a vital role supporting our scientific and technical teams in delivering world‑class research.

About the Apprenticeship

We’re looking for enthusiastic and motivated individuals ready to develop their skills through formal training and hands‑on experience. As an apprentice, you’ll gain practical experience in business and administrative tasks, helping our team run smoothly and efficiently. You’ll develop skills in organisation, communication, and project support—all while making a real impact in a professional environment. You'll be fully supported throughout the programme with regular check‑ins from a dedicated Apprenticeship Coordinator, structured training, practical experience, and mentorship from industry professionals. Plus, you’ll have access to workshops, a peer network, and career development support.

Responsibilities

• Update and maintain the department organogram.
• Support the Scientific Computing Seminar Series.
• Support the Scientific Computing Events Coordinator with department events.
• Attend and support workshops as required – be available to travel/work to support events and visit other STFC sites.
• Arrange accommodation and travel (both overseas and UK).
• Organise internal meetings.

What You’ll Learn

• Understand the organisation and its structure.
• Importance of following laws, regulations and policies.
• Produce accurate records and documents.
• Communicate well through different methods.
• Use relevant project management tools.
• Make effective decisions.
• Complete tasks to a high standard, managing priorities and time.
• Build positive relationships within a team and across the organisation.
• IT skills to fulfil the role.

Entry Requirements

• GCSEs in Maths and English (Grade 4/C or above).
• Awareness of basic health and safety.
• Enthusiastic and motivated to learn, both in the workplace and through formal training.
• Confident using a computer, especially tools like Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Genuine interest in the work of STFC.
• Build relationships by being friendly and approachable.
• Excellent team working ability.
• Good at keeping things on track and getting tasks done on time.

Important Information

To complete the apprenticeship, you will need to evidence passes at 9‑4 or A*‑C in GCSE (or equivalent) Maths and English. For those sitting their GCSEs in Summer 2026, we would need evidence of your predicted grades. There is a set residency eligibility criteria that must be met by the applicant. The training provider will also ask you to complete an initial assessment during the application process. If you already have a qualification in this subject area or similar please include, as an attachment, your transcript outlining the grade(s) achieved and modules covered. By applying for this apprenticeship, you are giving permission for your details to be shared with the relevant training provider.

Employee Benefits

• Your salary will increase annually as you progress through your apprenticeship, in line with policy.
• 30 days holiday (in addition to 10.5 bank holidays and privilege days).
• Flexible working hours.
• An excellent defined average salary pension scheme.
• Easily 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. The cover letter should address your suitability for the opportunity based on how you meet each essential criteria stated in this advert. 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 for this role. Please submit a CV and covering letter which clearly outlines how you fulfil the criteria specified along with your motivation for UKRI and the role. Ensure that the job reference number is included in the filename description of each document uploaded. Note that failure to address the above criteria or submit an application without a covering letter may result in the application not being considered. We will be in touch after the closing date, however, please reach out at apprenticerecruitment@ukri.org if you have any questions.

About UKRI

UKRI is an organisation that brings together the seven disciplinary research councils, Research England and Innovate UK. Together, we build an independent organisation with a strong voice and vision ensuring the UK maintains its world‑leading position in research and innovation.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

At UKRI, we believe that everyone has a right to be treated with dignity and respect, and to be provided with equal opportunities to thrive and succeed in an environment that enables them to do so. We also value diversity of thought and experience within inclusive groups, organisations and the wider community.

Disability Confident Employer – Any candidate who opts into the scheme and best meets the essential criteria will be shortlisted for interview. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.

Security Screening

The role holder will be required to have the appropriate level of security screening/vetting required for the role. UKRI reserves the right to run or re‑run security clearance as required during the course of employment.