Data Scientist Level 6 Apprenticeship

AWE; Reading; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 26,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Market leading pension scheme

Generous annual leave 270 hours + 1/2-

Every other Friday off - flexible/var.

Employee discounts portal

EAP and Occupational Health Services

Job summary

AWE in Reading is offering a Data Scientist Level 6 Apprenticeship designed to build skills in statistics, data science, analytics and artificial intelligence while contributing to national security.

You will rotate through different business areas, supported by experienced data scientists and engineers, and study towards a degree with an approved training provider.

Starting salary is £24,500 a year, rising to £26,000 in year two, with regular pay progression and a strong benefits package.

Qualifications

• UCAS points requirement and maths proficiency.
• GCSE Maths and English at grade 4/C or higher.
• Applicants must be British nationals and 18+ by 31 August 2027.

Responsibilities

• Learn data science concepts and apply them to real problems.
• Collaborate with data scientists, analysts and engineers.
• Progress towards a degree with an approved training provider.

Skills

UCAS points

Maths ability

GCSE Maths/English

Security clearance

Education

A Level Mathematics

Second STEM A Level

GCSE Maths

GCSE English

Job description

Job title and apprenticeship level: Data Scientist Level 6 Apprenticeship

About AWE

We're a team of remarkable people, united by one extraordinary mission: keeping the UK safe and secure. The UK's independent nuclear deterrent has existed for 75 years to deter the most extreme threats to our national security and way of life, helping to guarantee our safety, and that of our NATO allies.

Our work is critical. We're delivering Astraea, the next warhead for the UK's nuclear deterrent and pushing the boundaries of nuclear science and technology. But that's just part of the story.

We support the UK government in a range of vital areas – from counter-terrorism to global nuclear test monitoring to building a world-class community of experts in nuclear science. This is work that protects lives and strengthens national security.

At AWE, you'll find more than just a job. You'll find purpose, growth, and a community like no other. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your career to the next level, this is your chance to learn from the best, develop your skills, and be part of something truly unique.

Be extraordinary at AWE.

About the apprenticeship

This degree apprenticeship is a great opportunity to build your skills in using data to solve problems. You will learn about statistics, data science, analytics and artificial intelligence, and how these are used in a real workplace.

As a Data Science Apprentice, you will work in different parts of the business and learn how data can help answer questions, improve decisions and solve real problems. You will be supported by experienced data scientists, analysts, engineers and technical specialists while you develop skills in:

• Using statistics to understand data and test ideas
• Presenting data clearly using charts, dashboards and visual tools
• Machine learning and artificial intelligence, which help computers find patterns and support decision-making
• Programming using tools such as Python, R and SQL to work with data
• Collecting, organising and managing data so it can be used effectively
• Using modern data platforms and software used by data teams
• Using data and artificial intelligence responsibly, safely and fairly
• Working with powerful computer systems that can process large amounts of information
• Explaining your findings clearly to people with different levels of technical knowledge

Throughout your apprenticeship, you will spend time in different areas of the business while studying towards a degree with an approved training provider. You will work on projects that support areas such as engineering, science, operations and corporate teams, helping colleagues use data to understand information and make better decisions.

Opportunities when you complete your apprenticeship:

If you successfully complete your apprenticeship, you may be able to move into a Data Scientist role. This could be in one of several specialist areas, such as:

• Applied statistics, using numbers and data to help answer questions and solve problems
• Advanced analytics, using data to understand trends, patterns and possible future outcomes
• Artificial intelligence and machine learning, helping computers find patterns in data and support decision-making
• Data engineering and data management, making sure data is collected, organised and stored so it can be used effectively

After your apprenticeship, there may also be opportunities to keep developing your skills. This could include further specialist training, professional accreditation or postgraduate study, if this supports the needs of the business.

Apprenticeship Standard

ST0585

About you

We're looking for enthusiastic people who are curious about how data can be used to solve problems and help people make better decisions.

You should enjoy working with data and information, spotting patterns and using evidence to help solve problems. If you are interested in maths, statistics, programming, software development, artificial intelligence, engineering or science, this apprenticeship will help you build your skills in a challenging and rewarding environment.

This role may appeal to you if you enjoy

• Creating dashboards, charts and other tools that help people understand data
• Solving real-world problems using technology and data
• Turning complicated information into clear advice or recommendations that people can use

Entry Requirements

• 104 UCAS Points including A Level Mathematics at Grade C or above (or equivalent qualification), and a second STEM-related A Level at Grade C or above (or equivalent qualification). Candidates achieving Grade B or above in Mathematics are particularly encouraged to apply.
• GCSE Maths and English Grade 4/C or above.
• Due to the security requirements associated with this apprenticeship, applicants must be British Nationals and be aged 18 or over by 31 August 2027.

The Benefits

• A starting salary of £24,500 yearly, increasing to £26,000 in Year 2, with further annual salary increases throughout your apprenticeship, subject to satisfactory performance and achievement of apprenticeship milestones.
• Market leading contributory pension scheme
• Generous paid holiday entitlement of 270 hours per year, inclusive of Bank Holidays, plus every other Friday off as part of AWE's flexible working pattern.
• Access to employee discounts portal - everyday savings on retail, hospitality and leisure

Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services

Location

Reading area: AWE Aldermaston and/or AWE Burghfield sites, depending on your apprenticeship pathway, placements and business needs. Due to the nature of our work and security requirements, you should expect to work on-site during your apprenticeship and in your role after you complete it. Being on-site means you can learn directly from experienced technical specialists, access hands-on support, and build valuable connections across the business.

Start Date: 1st September 2027

Annual leave will not be granted from 1st September until 1st October due to mandatory inductions you are required to complete as part of your apprenticeship. Any leave approved after this point will depend on the training provider requirements for your apprenticeship and must be agreed in advance.

Apprenticeship Duration

3 years plus End Point Assessment

Recruitment Process

• Online application: Apply for one apprenticeship; take your time to explore the options and choose the one that best matches your interests and goals.
• Online test: If successful, you will be invited to complete our online assessment stage. These include online testing against numerical, verbal, logical and cognitive reasoning tests. Don't be intimidated: practice assessments will be available so you will be fully equipped with the knowledge of what to expect.
• In person assessment: Those successful at testing will be invited to an assessment centre. The Assessment Centre is scheduled for 16th February 2027. Please note that this date may be subject to change, but rest assured, we'll keep all applicants informed throughout the process.

These roles are governed by Health and Safety at Work Regulations and require all candidates to have an Occupational Health pre-employment medical held at AWE which follows the initial selection process. All candidates must be willing and able to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role and be willing and able to work in designated areas.

Our ambition is to create workplaces where we recognise and celebrate differences, encourage diverse contributions and our employees feel able to be themselves at work. We strive to create a genuine culture of openness and inclusion and encourage diverse applicants.

If you choose to share information on your application form about support needs, learning differences, disabilities, health conditions or adjustments, we may contact you to understand how we can support you through the recruitment process. This information will only be used for this purpose and will be handled in line with GDPR.

Contact us

If you have questions during the application process, please reach out to the Early Careers Team at [e-mail]

Important things you need to know

• You will need to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role. This will be funded by AWE. The nature of our work does mean you need to be a British Citizen who has been resident in the UK for the past 5 years in order to apply for SC clearance and 10 years for DV.
• We want you to feel comfortable and able to shine during our recruitment process. Please let us know on your application form if you need any adjustments/accommodations during the process.
• Our interviews typically take place over Teams and for most roles are a 1 stage process.

Our ambition is to create workplaces where we recognise and celebrate differences, encourage diverse contributions and our employees feel able to be themselves at work. We strive to create a genuine culture of openness and inclusion and encourage diverse applicants. Any inclusion information you provide will be stored in accordance with GDPR and kept separate from your application form and CV, and the information will not be shared with anyone involved in interviewing or making hiring decisions.

Please note that you must be a British Citizen to apply for a role with us.