Software Developer Apprentice - Time & Frequency

The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) helps set the standards by which everything is measured – combating global issues such as climate change, curing diseases and developing cutting-edge communications technology. At NPL, our apprentices are making their mark and getting involved in real projects, whilst developing invaluable skills and experience. 

As an apprentice, you will get involved in delivering the software underpinning the infrastructure of our National Timing Centre, developing new Time and Frequency infrastructure within the UK. You’ll be learning from industry experts who will blend practical experience with invaluable guidance and theory.

As a Software Engineer Apprentice, you will work collaboratively with our existing Software Engineering team in supporting the development of applications to deliver high quality software. You will undertake a work-based training programme including off the job training and development.

Software Engineer Apprentices employed at NPL study the Level 4 Software Developer Apprenticeship over two years.

Further off-the-job training will then be built into your workplace activities. This could include online learning, or tasks set by NPL supervisors for completion in the workplace. Our aim is to help you be confident in the workplace from day one; through additional training you will learn how to communicate effectively, how to manage your time, and how to work as part of a team. We want you to develop your self-awareness and your confidence.

Your day-to-day tasks as a Software Engineer Apprentice will include:

• Attending training sessions to expand your technical skillset.
• Working on software projects within the assigned Science Group
• Contributing to team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and project discussions.
• Involving in NPL Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Outreach activities.
• Ensuring software quality by following best coding practice, test procedures, change management processes and cyber security principles.
• Producing and maintaining up-to-date documentation of supported applications for knowledge transfer and team resilience.

What we can offer you:

• A comprehensive programme designed to provide a solid foundation in software engineering.
• Exposure to cutting-edge technologies and industry-leading practices.
• Mentoring from seasoned professionals who are passionate about sharing their expertise.
• Personal and professional growth opportunities, continuous learning and development.
• Soft skills development training – you will have an opportunity to improve your communication skills, time management, team working and presentation skills.

About the process:

• Submit your CV with a cover letter, explaining what attracts you to the Software Engineer Apprenticeship at NPL
• Online assessment
• Telephone interview with our Talent Acquisition team
• If you are selected, you’ll attend an assessment centre, which will be held at our Teddington site in Summer 2025
• Programme start date September 2025.

You will be able to demonstrate the following skills, behaviours, and qualifications:

• Level 3 qualification in ICT or A Level in ICT/STEM or BTEC in IT or 1 year + work experience in IT
• A demonstrable practical ability and an enthusiasm for how things are made and work.
• A professional approach to work, and willingness to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Good team working skills, demonstrating cooperation and flexibility.
• Great attention to detail.
• Resilience and determination to keep going at times when the work is challenging
• Good time management skills. All aspects of work will need to be delivered to the highest quality without exception and so the ability to plan and organise.
• Live within a commutable distance to Teddington or willing to relocate (the role is based on site 5 days a week)

We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in specific departments means that nationality, residency and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. You will be asked about this throughout the recruitment process. To work at NPL, you will need to obtain BPSS security clearance. However, to work in this role in the Time & Frequency department, you will be asked to obtain an SC clearance.

For more information on these checks, we encourage all applicants to spend some time reading the government guidance regarding vetting located on the gov.uk website.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/vetting-explained-and-our-vetting-charter 

Government funding rules for apprenticeships also have residency requirements and you will be asked about this throughout the recruitment process. 

Please note: Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward, so we encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as possible.

• The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK. Find out more about what it is like working here - The measure of us - Overview. 

  NPL and DSIT have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, providing they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme. 

  At NPL, we believe our success is a result of the diversity and talent of our people. We strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities regardless of their own or perceived identity, as part of our commitment to diversity & inclusion, we ensure we’re creating an environment where all our colleagues feel supported and welcome. More about this on our Diversity & Inclusion page. 

  We are committed to the health and well-being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work-life balance, along with a broad range of rewards, benefits and recognition. Our values are at the heart of what we do, and they shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success. To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we’re always willing to make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss, please contact us.