Software and Test Engineer Apprenticeships

DWP. Digital with Purpose

Do you want to launch a career in digital? Do you want to develop skills and gain experience that employers really value?

If the answer to these questions is 'Yes', why not apply for our apprenticeship programme that is focussing on two areas:

• Associate Level 1 Software Engineers
• Associate Level 1 Software Test Engineers.

This apprenticeship programme is an exciting opportunity to 'earn as you learn' and get hands on practice while you study towards a Level 4 qualification. You'll receive formal learning to develop crucial skills, knowledge and behaviours for your career and be part of a great team.

We're using fresh ideas and leading-edge tech to build and maintain digital solutions that will be used by nearly every person in the UK, every day and at key moments in their lives.

The scale of what we do is extraordinary, and our purpose is unique. We'd love you to join us.

Tell me about the Apprenticeships

Associate Level 1 Test Engineer Apprenticeship

We're offering apprenticeship roles across our Digital Hubs in Manchester, Newcastle, and Blackpool, with two additional roles available across all hubs (excluding London).

As a Test Engineer apprentice, you'll play a key role in ensuring the quality of the digital services that millions rely on.

You'll begin with two 8-week boot camps, then join an engineering team for around 12 months, learning to use tools like Selenium, Playwright, and Rest Assured. You'll build a portfolio as part of your 24-month Level 4 Software Tester apprenticeship, finishing with a practical and portfolio-based assessment.

Associate Level 1 Software Engineers

We're offering apprenticeship roles across our Digital Hubs in Manchester, Newcastle, Blackpool, Leeds, London and Sheffield.

As a Software Engineering Apprentice, you'll work with modern technologies such as Java, Node.JS, Microservices, and Test-Driven Development, contributing to the design and delivery of digital services. The programme includes structured boot camps and hands-on experience within engineering teams, leading to a Level 4 Software Developer qualification.

You'll be supported by your line manager, skills coach, the wider engineering community, and fellow apprentices-giving you plenty of encouragement to succeed. To make the most of this opportunity, you'll need to be proactive, ready to work hard, and eager to engage with the many learning experiences available.

This is a fantastic opportunity to begin your engineering career at DWP Digital and grow into a highly skilled tech professional.

Are you ready?

We're very keen to attract a broad range of applicants from diverse backgrounds. If you have the right motivation and attitude, and you want to launch a career in tech then we want to hear from you.

We're looking for apprentices who have the following:

• Attention to detail
• Good communication skills
• Good problem-solving skills,
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Ability to balance work and study, and passion for learning new things.

How do I apply?

You will work through a largely self-selecting application process run by Makers Academy.

This process is designed to enable you to try coding and to help you understand if you are suitable for the apprenticeship.

To be eligible for the apprenticeship you are required to hold the following minimum eligibility criteria:

• Hold a valid passport/birth certificate or residence permit
• Have the right to live and work in the UK
• Must have lived in the UK and/or EEA (European Economic Area) for 3 years prior to apprenticeship start date or hold refugee status
• Not be in full-time education or be undertaking another apprenticeship by the apprenticeship start date
• You must not hold an existing qualification at the same or higher level in a similar subject
• You must hold GCSEs in Maths and English at Grade C/4 or above or complete and pass a functional skills test.

There has never been a more exciting time to get involved in a digital apprenticeship with DWP Digital.

Click Apply now for more info and to start an application.