Apprentice Data Engineer

Are you curious about technology and interested in using data to make a real difference?

This is an exciting opportunity to join Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) as an Apprentice Data Engineer, where you'll gain hands-on experience developing the data and technology that supports transport, planning, economic growth and public services across the West Midlands.

Working alongside experienced data engineers and digital specialists, you'll develop skills in data engineering, coding, cloud computing, automation and data visualisation while studying towards a Level 4 DevOps Engineer Apprenticeship.

You'll contribute to real projects that help improve decision-making across the organisation, supporting the development of dashboards, data platforms and cloud-based solutions that enable better services for the people and communities of the West Midlands.

The WMCA Apprentice Development Programme forms part of our wider Emerging Talent offer and supports our People and Culture Strategy by helping to build the skills, capability and future workforce we need across the organisation. In return, you'll receive a structured apprenticeship programme, giving you access to professional training, mentoring and practical experience that will equip you for a rewarding career in data engineering and technology.

Please don’t be put off by applying if you don’t receive your exam results until August 2026. We still want to hear from you!

What you will be doing.

• Support the development and maintenance of data engineering solutions that help shape transport and public service decisions across the West Midlands.
• Learn how to collect, transform and automate data using modern data engineering techniques and cloud technologies, including AWS.
• Assist with the production of dashboards and reporting that provide valuable insights for strategic and operational decision-making.
• Help maintain data systems and contribute to improving the quality, accessibility and security of organisational data.
• Support the collection, analysis and management of transport, planning, social and economic data.
• Work alongside experienced data engineers and colleagues across the organisation, gaining practical experience on a wide range of projects.
• Contribute to the development of data solutions that support regional strategies, investment decisions and service improvements.

What’s essential.

• Experience working in a team environment (e.g. school, volunteering or a part-time job).
• Experience using Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and Outlook).
• Good analytical and numerical skills, with the ability to review information and identify solutions.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and the ability to manage your time effectively.
• A willingness to learn, take initiative and develop new technical skills.
• The ability to work collaboratively with others.
• The ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, combining remote and office-based working.
• A willingness to complete the Level 4 DevOps Engineer Apprenticeship.
• A Level 3 qualification in Computer Science or a related subject (such as an A Level, BTEC or T Level).
• GCSE English and Maths at Grade 4/C or above (or equivalent).

Location and Apprenticeship Commitment

This role is based at 16 Summer Lane, Birmingham, B19 3SD. We currently operate a hybrid working model, which means splitting your time between the office and home, subject to business need and agreement with your line manager.

As this is an apprenticeship, you'll have dedicated time during your working week to complete your learning and coursework alongside gaining practical experience within the team.

How to apply

Follow our application process – there will be some pre-application questionnaires for you to complete.

Why join WMCA?

WMCA is laser-focused on improving the West Midlands, bringing economic growth, jobs, homes, and better journeys to the region. We target local needs where it matters most, ensuring everyone has a job that pays well and has access to safe and affordable places they can call home.

We put people and place at the heart of everything we do, working hand in hand with our partners to direct funding where it's needed most. What you do really matters; your expertise will help make a big difference to improving people's lives.

Our Values and Behaviours.

Fostering an environment where people feel valued, included, supported, and proud to contribute to our region is important to us at the WMCA. Our behaviours are more than statements; they guide how we work, make decisions, and treat one another - they set the standards we hold ourselves to and the experience we want others to have.

• Collaborative - We work as one organisation, building trust, connection and shared purpose across teams, partners and customers to create the biggest impact for our region.
  
  
• Driven - Focussed on impact - leading with clarity, care and courage to deliver meaningful results for the West Midlands.
  
  
• Inclusive - Every voice matters - we create belonging, fairness and psychological safety so everyone can thrive.
  
  
• Innovative- We think future and act smarter - embracing curiosity, creativity and continuous improvement to shape the future.

Creating an inclusive workplace.

WMCA holds diversity accreditations, including the RACE Code Quality Mark and Armed Forces Covenant (Gold status), and has been recognised as one of the Inclusive Top 50 Employers and The Times Top 50 Employers for Women. We’re a Disability Confident Employer with ‘Leader’ status, committed to interviewing applicants with disabilities who meet all the essential role criteria.

We are also proud to be a Ban the Box employer, which means we do not ask about criminal convictions at the initial application stage, and will only ask after an offer is made as part of our onboarding checks, which helps us remove barriers for people with past convictions and supports fair opportunities for all.

We recognise that certain groups, such as women and people of colour, may be less likely to apply for roles if they feel they do not meet all the requirements. However, we encourage individuals who are passionate about the role and want to make a difference to still apply. We value potential and encourage applicants to highlight their skills, including transferable ones, even if they don't fit the traditional "perfect candidate" mould.

We gladly consider part-time, flexible, and job share arrangements, so please don't let these factors deter you from applying

Right to Work in the UK

Proof of Right to Work in the UK will be required for all applicants in accordance with UK Home Office requirements, before any employment offer can be confirmed.

Non-UK applicants (excluding Ireland) would be required to hold a relevant Visa from the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).