The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is inviting applications for the role of Apprentice Application Operations Engineer. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals who are passionate about technology and want to launch a rewarding career in IT while earning a competitive salary.
Successful applicants will join one of the UK’s largest government digital organisations, gaining valuable hands-on experience while studying towards a Level 4 Application Support Lead Apprenticeship. The role offers permanent employment, structured learning, career development, and the chance to work on critical digital services that support millions of UK citizens.
Job Summary
- Position: Apprentice Application Operations Engineer
- Employer: Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)
- Reference Number: 464264
- Location: Newcastle, United Kingdom
- Salary: £32,137 per year
- Job Grade: Executive Officer
- Contract Type: Permanent Apprenticeship
- Working Pattern: Full-time, Part-time, Flexible Working
- Number of Vacancies: 10
- Application Deadline: 11:55 PM, Sunday, 12 July 2026
About the Role
As an Apprentice Application Operations Engineer, you will become part of DWP Digital’s Centralised Application Support Services (CASS) team. The team is responsible for maintaining the reliability and performance of applications that support essential government services.
This apprenticeship combines practical work experience with formal training, allowing you to develop the technical knowledge and professional skills needed for a successful career in Application Operations.
Throughout the programme, you’ll work alongside experienced engineers who will mentor and support your development while you complete your apprenticeship qualification.
What You’ll Be Doing
Your responsibilities will include:
- Supporting business-critical applications and digital services.
- Monitoring application performance and responding to incidents.
- Investigating and resolving application issues using ITIL best practices.
- Using Service Management tools to manage incidents and requests.
- Performing database queries and analysing application data.
- Assisting with software releases and deployment activities.
- Participating in change and release management processes.
- Supporting continuous service improvement initiatives.
- Working collaboratively with engineers, DevOps teams, Site Reliability Engineers (SRE), and other digital specialists.
- Managing your workload effectively while balancing work and apprenticeship studies.
- Providing application support during scheduled out-of-hours on-call rotations when required.
Apprenticeship Programme
This role includes a Level 4 Application Support Lead Apprenticeship, designed to provide nationally recognised qualifications alongside practical workplace experience.
The apprenticeship is expected to:
- Last approximately 24 months
- Include a complete learning journey of up to 30 months
- Begin in January 2027
- Provide dedicated study time during working hours
- Be fully supported by DWP managers, mentors, apprenticeship coaches, and training providers
Upon successful completion, you’ll have the skills and experience needed to continue building a career in Application Operations and related IT disciplines.
Essential Skills and Qualities
The ideal candidate should possess:
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong teamwork and collaboration abilities.
- Good organisational and time management skills.
- Ability to prioritise multiple tasks effectively.
- Willingness to learn new technologies.
- Passion for IT and digital services.
- Commitment to completing the apprenticeship programme.
- Ability to work independently as your confidence grows.
- Flexibility to adapt to changing business priorities.
Previous technical experience is not essential, making this role ideal for individuals looking to start or transition into an IT career.
Apprenticeship Eligibility
Applicants must meet the apprenticeship funding requirements, including:
- The right to live and work in the UK throughout the apprenticeship.
- Residency requirements as outlined by the Department for Education.
- Not currently enrolled in another apprenticeship or full-time education.
- Not already holding an equivalent or higher qualification in a closely related subject.
- Limited previous experience in a similar role to remain eligible for apprenticeship funding.
Candidates should carefully review all eligibility requirements before submitting an application.
Salary and Benefits
Successful applicants will receive an attractive benefits package, including:
- Annual salary of £32,137
- Civil Service Pension with an employer contribution of 28.97%
- Permanent employment from day one
- Hybrid working opportunities (subject to business needs)
- Flexible working arrangements
- Minimum of 23 days annual leave, increasing with service
- Public and privilege holidays
- Comprehensive learning and development opportunities
- Industry-recognised qualifications
- Career progression within DWP Digital
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Employee discount scheme
- Family-friendly policies
- Inclusive and supportive working environment
Selection Process
The recruitment process consists of several stages:
Stage 1 – Online Application
Applicants must complete:
- Personal details
- Employment history
- A personal statement of up to 750 words demonstrating how they meet the essential criteria.
Stage 2 – Apprenticeship Eligibility Assessment
Successful candidates will complete checks covering:
- Eligibility
- Qualifications
- Functional Skills (where applicable)
- Skills Scan
These assessments will be conducted by DWP’s apprenticeship provider, Velocity.
Stage 3 – Interview
Shortlisted candidates will attend a face-to-face interview in Newcastle.
The interview will assess the following Civil Service behaviours:
- Communicating and Influencing
- Delivering at Pace
- Developing Self and Others
Security Requirements
This position requires successful completion of Security Check (SC) Clearance.
Applicants must also satisfy the Civil Service residency and nationality requirements.
Why Join DWP Digital?
Working for DWP Digital means joining one of the UK’s largest and most innovative government technology organisations. You’ll contribute to digital services used by millions of people while developing valuable technical skills through structured learning and real-world experience.
Whether you’re starting your IT journey or looking for a career with long-term growth opportunities, this apprenticeship provides an excellent pathway into the digital profession.
Application Deadline
Applications must be submitted no later than:
11:55 PM (UK time), Sunday, 12 July 2026.