Data Scientist Apprentice - 2026 UKI

About the Role

QinetiQ is seeking enthusiastic individuals for a Data Scientist Apprenticeship, offering a unique opportunity to build a career in a dynamic and innovative defence environment. This role is based in Farnborough and is a permanent, full-time position. We foster an inclusive workplace where diversity is celebrated and strengthens our teams.

Data Science & Engineering Team

Join our Data Science and Engineering team, where our primary goal is to empower customers by maximizing the value derived from their data. We are involved in every stage of the data lifecycle, from initial acquisition and processing to in-depth analysis and the delivery of actionable insights and advice. Our teams comprise data scientists who explore datasets and algorithms, and data engineers who build the essential infrastructure for data capture and processing. We apply a range of conventional and novel machine learning techniques to solve complex customer challenges, highlighting the opportunities presented by data exploitation.

What You Will Be Doing

As an apprentice, you will work within small project teams, contributing to all aspects of data analysis. Your responsibilities will include:

• Participating in project meetings.
• Assisting with data preparation and the application of Machine Learning or Artificial Intelligence techniques.
• Coding solutions to support project work and adhering to team coding best practices.
• Potentially engaging with stakeholders and contributing to report writing.
• Collaborating with colleagues and subject matter experts across the business to gain cross-domain insights.

This role will provide you with practical experience in the complete data pipeline, from collection and wrangling to modelling and generating conclusions. You will gain knowledge of statistical techniques, supervised and unsupervised machine learning algorithms, develop programming skills in Python and for cloud environments, and enhance your general data analysis capabilities. Furthermore, you will cultivate essential soft skills, including planning, technical report writing, and presentation.

Apprenticeship Details

• Title: Level 6 Data Scientist Apprenticeship
• Qualification: BSc (Hons) Data Science
• Course Provider: Cranfield University

Academic Requirements

Candidates must meet the following academic requirements:

• Grade 5 in GCSE Mathematics or equivalent, and Grade 4 in GCSE English Language or equivalent (prior to admission).
• OR BBC at A-Level, to include Mathematics. Citizenship Skills, General Studies, and Critical Thinking A-Levels are not accepted.
• OR Completion of a Level 4 Data Analyst apprenticeship with a Merit or Distinction.

Additional Requirements

• Ability to travel to the training provider for the academic components of the apprenticeship. Travel expenses will be reimbursed.
• Some understanding of statistics and/or mathematical modelling.
• Some experience of programming in at least one coding language (e.g., Python, R, C++).
• Familiarity or experience with basic coding best practices (e.g., version control, code quality).

Beneficial Skills

• Experience with cloud computing platforms.
• Machine learning or data analysis project experience (academic or personal).
• Demonstrated soft skills, including teamwork and technical communication.

Security Clearance

All applicants for this role must be eligible for SC clearance as a minimum. Please note that factors such as nationality and birth country may impact your eligibility for security vetting.

Important Note for International Applicants

Under current immigration rules, this Early Careers role does not meet the legal threshold for candidates who are resident in the UK on student visas.