Graduate Trainee - Digital (Cyber Security)

Leeds City Council; Leeds; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A municipal organization is seeking a motivated Graduate Trainee in Cyber Security to join its team in Leeds. This role offers practical experience in developing and maintaining digital systems and services, supporting IT operations, and contributing to public service improvements. Candidates should possess a degree in a relevant field and demonstrate strong analytical and teamwork skills. The position supports a commitment to diversity and continuous professional development.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Annual leave plus statutory holidays

Membership of the West Yorkshire Pension Fund

Flexible working arrangements

Career development opportunities

Qualifications

• Degree or equivalent in a relevant field.
• Ability to communicate with diverse stakeholders.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Basic understanding of IT systems and networks.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the development of digital policies and services.
• Support IT professionals to gain real-world experience.
• Work on projects to enhance public service delivery.
• Engage in requirements gathering for digital solutions.

Skills

Communication

Teamwork

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Time management

Education

Degree in Computer Science, IT, Data Science or related field

5 GCSEs at grades 9-4 (A-C)

Tools

Microsoft Technologies

Job description

We are seeking a dynamic, innovative, and highly motivated candidate to join our Graduate Programme at Leeds City Council. This role will assist with the development, implementation, maintenance, and improvement of digital systems and services. As a Graduate Trainee – Digital (Cyber Security), you will gain practical experience and training in various aspects of IT support and development, contributing to the efficient operation of the organisation's digital infrastructure. This opportunity is part of our IT Talent Management Programme offering new routes into digital careers at the council.

You'll join our Cyber Assurance Team within the council's Integrated Digital Services team, our in-house digital experts who support staff IT needs and deliver online services for residents. With a wide range of specialist roles and a strong focus on innovation, this role offers a great foundation for a rewarding career in tech.

Job Purpose

Engage in various projects to develop essential technical skills, gain hands‑on experience with cutting‑edge technologies, and contribute to the corporate digital agenda. The role will help drive improvements in public service delivery, ensuring Leeds City Council meets the needs of the wider community effectively and efficiently.

Programme Structure

• Candidates will work in the key teams related to their selected specialism such as data analysis, cyber security, and software development/testing.
• Each candidate will be paired with a senior mentor who will provide guidance, support, and career development advice.
• Development & Assessment: Comprehensive training sessions, workshops, and seminars will be provided to enhance technical skills and industry knowledge.
• Graduates may have the opportunity to contribute to key digital projects that will have a significant impact on local government operations and public services.

Responsibilities

• Work flexibly to support Leeds City Council services by contributing to projects, transforming ways of working, and assisting in the development of digital policies.
• Work closely with IT professionals to gain practical experience and real‑world insights whilst building the essential skills and knowledge required to foster the next generation of digital leaders.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to identify and implement digital solutions that improve service delivery and operational efficiency.
• Analyse corporate data to inform decision‑making and policy development from a range of sources.
• Assist in the development, implementation and maintenance of digital platforms and tools.
• Support cyber security initiatives to protect digital infrastructure and sensitive information.
• Engage in effective requirements gathering to ensure digital solutions meet user needs.
• Monitor project management and report on the progress of digital schemes.
• Contribute to the development of digital strategies and frameworks.
• Keep up to date with the latest digital trends and technologies to improve digital services.
• Attendance at team meetings and contribute to project planning and execution.
• Participate in mentorship and learning opportunities including training/networking activities and leadership/management skills growth.
• Provide coaching and/or support to apprentices and oversee/allocate tasks as required.
• Understand and embrace Leeds City Council Values and Behaviours and codes of conduct.
• Committed to continuous improvement in all areas and work towards delivering the Best City Ambition of Health & Wellbeing, Inclusive Growth and Zero Carbon.
• Able to understand and observe Leeds City Council policies and procedures.
• Carry out all duties having regard to an employee's responsibility under Health, Safety and Wellbeing.
• Willingness to actively participate in appraisal, training, and development activities to remain up‑to‑date with knowledge and skills.
• Flexible and adaptable to change to assist other services as required commensurate to grade.
• Be aware of and support difference and ensure equality for all working in an anti‑discriminatory manner, upholding equality & diversity of Leeds City Council.
• Recognise and appropriately challenge any incidents of racism, bullying, harassment, victimisation and any form of abuse, reporting any concerns to the appropriate person.
• The Council has adopted a flexibility protocol, and the role will be expected to work within these parameters.

Essential Requirements

• Reach a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grades 9‑4 (A‑C) and a degree or equivalent – experience in a relevant field (e.g. Computer Science, IT, Data Science, Cyber, AI, etc.) is desirable.
• Able to communicate appropriately and effectively with a wide range of people including internal and external partners using a variety of formats.
• Able to work effectively as part of a team and demonstrate organisational and time‑management skills prioritising own and the team's work to meet conflicting deadlines.
• Able to use initiative to develop solutions to day‑to‑day issues and problems.
• Able to develop constructive working relationships and work in partnership with others.
• Able to provide customer‑focused service.
• Able to accurately enter and retrieve data and information from digital and manual systems with attention to detail when creating documentation.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Able to develop solutions in a public sector environment demonstrating an understanding of how transforming ways of working can achieve results.
• Able to work with stakeholders to achieve the benefits of change by meeting customer/stakeholder expectations within Leeds City Council budgetary constraints.
• Able to learn and adapt in a fast‑paced environment and use coaching/mentoring opportunities to support others through rapid change.
• Understand financial and council‑wide impact in decision‑making processes.
• Basic understanding of IT systems, networks, and software applications (Microsoft technologies desirable).
• Understand financial pressures local government faces and be able to flex to support council priorities.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and annual leave entitlement plus statutory holidays.
• Membership of the West Yorkshire Pension Fund with generous employer contributions.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements subject to service requirements.
• A clear career pathway and continuing professional development opportunities.
• A range of staff benefits to help you boost your wellbeing and make your money go further.

The role is based in the UK. Home Office guidance states that candidates must evidence their right to work in the UK prior to commencing employment, either as a UK or Irish citizen, under the EU Settlement scheme or having secured any other relevant work visa.

Equality and diversity:

Leeds City Council is an equal opportunities employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without reference to race, gender, disability, sexual orientation, religion or belief, age or other protected characteristic.