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ERP Data & Support Apprentice

SKA Observatory · Cheshire · posted 24 July 2026

Wage
£23,000 a year
Hours
40 hours a week
Duration
1 Year 4 Months
Level
Advanced (Level 3)
Standard
Data technician (level 3)
Starts
1 September 2026
Closing date
28 August 2026
Positions
1

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The ERP team's main objectives are: 

  • Ensure the businesses ERP system operates efficiently and effectively and is accessible during all of SKAO’s business hours across time zones
  • Ensure a high level of ERP systems data integrity
  • Maintain an excellent ERP support service with positive reviews from internal and external service users
  • Continual Service Improvement (CSI) of the support service
  • Allocate ERP support resources effectively and efficiently to best deliver a timely support service no matter the location
  • Automation of tasks to remove or reduce manual effort in repetitive and routine activities
  • Creating documentation, knowledge-sharing articles, and training to support the wider observatory.
  • The apprentice will be expected to attend most of their working hours in the office at Jodrell Bank

Key Responsibilities:

Under the guidance and supervision of the ERP Systems Manager and ERP colleagues, the ERP Support Apprentice will:

  • Assist in monitoring the ERP helpdesk and responding to support requests
  • Maintenance of user accounts, and routine system administration tasks
  • Assist with identifying knowledge-sharing opportunities and updating ERP documentation
  • Create and amend SQL queries as required
  • Maintenance of accurate data for Finance, Procurement and HR

Project Work (Approx. 20% of working hours)

  • Support ongoing ERP projects by performing assigned tasks under supervision
  • Assist the implementation of improvements in relation to SQL queries and system automation as part of project participation
  • Assist with system upgrades, testing and software rollouts
  • Contribute to documentation and process improvements as part of project learning activities

Your training

  • Off-the-job training (OTJ): As part of their apprenticeship, apprentices are entitled to a minimum of 6 hours per week of paid OTJ training. During their OTJ time allocated by their employer, apprentices will complete coursework, attend training, and study
  • Within 4-6 weeks of beginning work at the organisation, your Tutor will make contact by email with the you and your workplace Mentor to arrange a mutually convenient Induction date. Subsequent 1:1 Training and review sessions will take place monthly either at the company premises or as a live virtual meeting
  • You will also attend 6 live virtual training sessions. Dates will be confirmed during Induction. These training sessions are live, online and take place Monday - Thursday from 9.30am - 4.30pm

Where it leads

  • ERP Support Executive

About SKA Observatory

The SKAO is a next-generation radio astronomy-driven Big Data facility that will revolutionise our understanding of the Universe and the laws of fundamental physics. Enabled by cutting-edge technology, it promises to have a major impact on society, in science and beyond.

Things to consider

Mandatory Requirements 

  • A genuine interest in database system administration and technology, with a willingness to learn and develop.
  • Familiarity with Microsoft or Apple computing devices and an aptitude for technology.
  • Good communication skills, both written and verbal.
  • Ability to follow instructions and procedures carefully, paying attention to detail.

Desired (but not essential) 

  • An interest in Finance and Procurement, and how business support functions should enable an organisation’s success.
  • Basic awareness of cloud-based tools (e.g., Dropbox, Microsoft 365, Google Workspace).
  • Awareness of IT Service Management (ITSM) concepts, such as ITIL. 

Skills they're looking for

Communication skillsOrganisation skillsProblem solving skillsTeam workingTime managementPersonal integrity

Entry requirements

  • GCSE English (grade 3) — essential
  • GCSE Maths (grade 3) — essential

Where you'll work

  • Jodrell Bank Observatory Lower Withington, Macclesfield, Cheshire, SK11 9DL

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