AI and Automation Practitioner Apprentice – 37 hpw

Job Summary Contract Type: Fixed Term Working Pattern: Full time Advert Start Date: 05/08/2026 Advert End Date: 18/08/2026 12:00 Salary: £8.22 per hour Hours per week: 37 Job Category: Apprenticeships Vacancy ID: 300488 Employment Location: Town Hall, South Shields Post Number: BR02826 Number of posts: 1 Closing date: 18 Aug Further Information AI and Automation Practitioner Apprentice – 37 hpw (Town Hall, South Shields) £8.22 per hour Fixed Term Contract for 2 Years You will work within the Digital and ICT Solution, Design and Data Team as an Apprentice AI and Automation Practitioner. In this exciting hands-on role, you will develop the skills needed to discover, design, build and support cutting-edge, AI-enabled automations. Your work will directly improve the efficiency, quality and consistency of services for both South Tyneside Council staff and residents. What You Will Be Doing * Working alongside experienced digital professionals, you will learn to bridge the gap between business processes and innovative technology: * Discover and Map Processes: Collaborate with Council service teams to identify repetitive, rules-based tasks. You will map out current user journeys, highlight pain points and design streamlined, automated workflows; * Build and Integrate Solutions: Gain practical experience configuring workflow automations using platforms like Microsoft Power Platform, integrating APIs and testing end-to-end solutions; * Apply AI and Data Responsibly: Learn how to configure conversational AI, document understanding and smart triage tools - always ensuring solutions feature robust guardrails, data privacy and appropriate human-in-the-loop oversight; * Support and Maintain: Create clear documentation, monitor live automations, assist with user training and track benefits like time saved and reduced error rates; * Earn While You Learn: Dedicate official off-the-job training time each week toward completing your Level 4 Apprenticeship, supported by dedicated mentors every step of the way. What We Are Looking For We are seeking enthusiastic, curious candidates who are eager to learn and grow within the public sector technology field. You will have: * A Passion for Tech and Problem Solving: Interested in how AI, data and workflow automation can solve every day operational challenges; * A Responsible and Ethical Approach: An appreciation for data security, GDPR and the ethical use of artificial intelligence; * Great Communication Skills: The ability to listen, collaborate and explain technical ideas clearly to non-technical colleagues; * Accountability and Drive: A proactive mindset, keen attention to detail and a commitment to completing apprenticeship modules alongside day-to-day projects. This role offers a unique opportunity to gain a recognised Level 4 AI and Automation Practitioner Apprenticeship while working on high-impact projects that directly benefit colleagues and residents. For an informal discussion about this post, please contact Scott Lawson, Solution Design and Data Manager on (0191) 820 0110. We offer an excellent benefits package and further information is available here - www.southtyneside.gov.uk/workinghere We do not currently offer skilled worker visa sponsorship. To view our Privacy Notice please visit: https://southtyneside.gov.uk/article/2780/Privacy-notice-for-job-applicants Please note that if you apply for this role, all communication regarding your application will be sent to the email address that you have registered with North East Jobs, please ensure you check your junk mail. Closing date: Noon, Tuesday 18 August 2026.