Data Engineer Apprentice

Job description

Job responsibilities

In this role, you are accountable for:

1. Supporting the design, build and testing of data pipelines and data products under supervision, using data feeds from multiple systems and working with a range of storage technologies and access methods.

2. Contributing to the creation of repeatable and reusable data products, developing an understanding of how tools and processes align with the wider business data architecture.

3. Learning and applying Information Governance principles when handling data, ensuring that its storage and use complies with relevant legislation and NHSBSA policies, under guidance.

4. Working with metadata to support tasks such as system and data integration analysis, with support from more experienced colleagues.

5. Helping to maintain documentation and repositories to ensure information about data assets remains accurate and up to date.

6. Writing, testing, and documenting simple programs or scripts under the direction of senior team members and learning how to troubleshoot and fix common issues.

7. Taking part in peer reviews and testing of work at a similar level of complexity, learning to give and receive constructive feedback.

8. Contributing to code reviews by observing good practice and, with support, applying basic refactoring techniques to help improve code quality and maintainability.

9. Applying core technical concepts related to data engineering tasks under supervision and actively building knowledge through training and practical work.

10. Exploring opportunities to experiment with new tools and approaches, contributing to a culture of learning and innovation within the team.

11. Learning and adopting industry best practices and standards in data engineering and helping to embed them in day-to-day work through observation and participation.

12. Collaborating with colleagues across teams, including analysts, data scientists, and data governance professionals building positive relationships, to support the delivery of shared goals and data solutions.

13. Engaging with and completing all the academic requirements of the level 5 Data Engineering apprenticeship at the expected standard

14. Attending and utilising all the learning, coaching and mentoring events provided by the apprenticeship provider and being proactive in seeking out extra support if/when it is needed.

In addition to the above accountabilities, as post holder you are expected to

1. Undertake additional duties and responsibilities in line with the purpose of your role and as agreed by your line manager.

2. Demonstrate NHSBSA values and core capabilities in all aspects of your work.

3. Encourage an environment where your own and colleagues safety and well-being is promoted.

4. Contribute to a culture which values diversity and inclusion.

5. Follow NHSBSA policies, procedures, and protocols as they apply to your role.

Person Specification

Personal Qualities, Knowledge and Skills

Essential

• Strong problem-solving skills appropriate to a learning role, with a good level of attention to detail when working with data.
• Good verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to learn how to explain technical ideas clearly to non-technical colleagues.
• Willingness to receive feedback and adapt, demonstrating self-awareness and a positive approach to personal development.
• A collaborative and inquisitive attitude, showing enthusiasm for learning new skills, tools, and technologies.
• Ability to focus and concentrate for extended periods, particularly when supporting the development or troubleshooting of data pipelines and related tasks.
• Ability to build effective relationships with a variety of stakeholders.
• Confident knowledge of Microsoft Office programs.
• Be an effective team member who can work under direction but also use initiative to take the lead when necessary.

Desirable

• Familiarity with NHS data systems or healthcare environments, gained through work experience, study, or interest.
• Awareness of data quality issues and common techniques for identifying and resolving them.
• Basic understanding of good coding practices, including the importance of logging, error handling, and data auditing.
• Interest or experience in using data visualisation tools, even at a basic or exploratory level (e.g. Power BI, Excel, Tableau).
• Organised and self-motivated, with developing time management skills and the ability to follow agreed plans and timelines.

Experience

Essential

• Interest in working with large and complex datasets, with an ability to learn techniques for managing, transforming, and analysing data effectively.
• Some experience with Python or another programming language for data manipulation, gained through study, personal projects, or training.
• Basic understanding of how data is used in reporting and analytics environments, with a willingness to develop practical skills in using data to support decision-making.
• Ability to create and maintain technical documentation, and an appreciation of its importance in supporting knowledge sharing and consistent development practices.
• Basic understanding of data protection and information governance principles, with a commitment to handling data responsibly and securely.
• Ability to follow structured methods, standards, and procedures when completing technical tasks, with an understanding of the importance of quality and consistency.
• Ability to learn and apply new technical skills, including working with unfamiliar tools, technologies, or data sources as part of a development programme.
• Experience of working as part of a team to deliver measurable outcomes.
• Experience of working in environment where written and verbal communication are essential to delivery of outcomes.

Desirable

• Awareness of data engineering concepts, including Data Warehousing or ETL processes.
• Exposure to deployment pipelines or CI/CD concepts, with a willingness to learn how code is tested and promoted into production environments.
• Familiarity with reporting and dashboarding tools, such as Power BI, even if only at a basic or learner level.
• Interest in data analytics techniques, and a desire to learn how they are applied in healthcare or public sector settings.
• Curiosity about the use of Generative AI or other modern technologies in data development work.
• Basic understanding of source control tools, such as Git, and how they are used in collaborative development.
• Awareness of Agile methodologies, and an interest in working in an iterative, team-based environment.
• Interest in data modelling for analytics, with a willingness to develop understanding of concepts such as star schemas, fact/dimension tables, and modelling for performance.

Qualifications

Essential

• Minimum of 5 GCSEs or equivalent at grade 4 (grade C) or above.
• Relevant Level 3 qualifications that incorporate either maths, science or computer science.
• Proficient in using Microsoft Excel

Desirable

• 120+ UCAS tariff points

Employer details

Employer name

NHS Business Services Authority

Address

Stella House

Goldcrest way, Newburn Riverside

Newcastle Upon Tyne

NE15 8NY

Employer's website

https://careers.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)