HR Support Apprentice at Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) – £25,470 | Full-Time Apprenticeship | UK Nationals Only
Looking to start a career in Human Resources with the UK Civil Service? The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) is recruiting 3 HR Support Apprentices to join its HR Delivery team in Salisbury. This Level 3 apprenticeship offers structured training, excellent benefits, flexible working, and a competitive starting salary with annual progression.
Job Summary
- Position: HR Support Apprentice
- Organisation: Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl)
- Reference Number: 472205
- Location: Porton Down, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP4 0JQ
- Salary: £25,470 per year (annual increases throughout the apprenticeship)
- Job Grade: Administrative Assistant (Dstl Level 1)
- Contract Type: Apprenticeship
- Working Pattern: Full-Time, Flexible Working
- Business Area: HR Delivery
- Vacancies: 3
- Application Deadline: 11:55 PM, Sunday 2 August 2026
About the Role
Dstl is seeking enthusiastic individuals to join its HR Delivery team as HR Support Apprentices. The team provides professional HR advice and operational support throughout the employee lifecycle, including recruitment, onboarding, learning and development, employee relations, pay and reward, and employee services.
As part of this apprenticeship, you will complete a Level 3 HR Support Apprenticeship, with 20% of your working week dedicated to face-to-face learning. You’ll gain practical HR experience while developing the knowledge and skills needed for a successful career in Human Resources.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide first-line HR support to employees and managers.
- Respond to HR queries relating to policies and procedures.
- Support recruitment and onboarding activities.
- Assist with employee lifecycle administration.
- Help deliver high-quality HR customer service.
- Develop professional HR knowledge through structured apprenticeship training.
- Work collaboratively within the HR Delivery team.
Working Arrangement
This role follows Dstl’s blended working model.
- Attendance at a Dstl or approved government workplace is required for 60% of working time.
- Home working may be available where business needs permit and with manager approval.
Essential Requirements
Applicants should have:
- A strong interest in Human Resources.
- Excellent customer service skills.
- Good communication and teamwork abilities.
- GCSEs (or equivalent), including English and Mathematics at Grade C/4 or above.
- Ability to deliver quality work and manage priorities effectively.
Security & Nationality Requirements
This vacancy is open to UK Nationals only.
Applicants must:
- Be eligible for UK Security Clearance.
- Have normally lived in the UK for the previous 5 years.
- Meet all national security vetting requirements.
This role is not open to dual nationals or international applicants and does not offer visa sponsorship.
Benefits
- Starting salary of £25,470 with annual progression.
- Civil Service Pension with approximately 28.97% employer contribution.
- Flexible and hybrid working options where business needs allow.
- 25 days annual leave, increasing to 30 days after five years.
- Option to buy or sell additional annual leave.
- Fully funded Level 3 HR apprenticeship.
- Professional memberships supported by Dstl.
- Learning and development opportunities.
- Cycle to Work Scheme.
- Rental Deposit Scheme.
- On-site parking.
- EV charging points.
- Restaurants, cafés and gym facilities.
- Family-friendly maternity, adoption and shared parental leave.
Selection Process
Applicants will be assessed against:
- Delivering at Pace
- Working Together
- Managing a Quality Service
You’ll also complete a technical assessment based on a real-life customer support scenario.
Sifting is expected during the week commencing 3 August 2026, with interviews taking place at Dstl Porton Down during the week commencing 24 August 2026.
How to Apply
Submit your application through the UK Civil Service Jobs website before:
11:55 PM, Sunday 2 August 2026
Only applications received before the closing date will be considered.
Important Information
This apprenticeship is an excellent opportunity to build a long-term career in Human Resources within the UK Civil Service while gaining nationally recognised qualifications and valuable workplace experience.
Application Deadline: 2 August 2026