Network Engineer Apprentice

As a Level 4 Network Engineering apprentice working in the Network Team within Digital & IT, some day-to-day tasks and responsibilities you might encounter are:

Network Infrastructure Management:

• Install, configure, and maintain networking equipment such as routers, switches, and firewalls.


• Troubleshoot network issues, ensuring smooth connectivity for users.


• Monitor network performance and address any bottlenecks or outages.


Security Measures:

• Implement security protocols to safeguard the network against cyber threats.


• Manage access controls, ensuring authorised personnel have appropriate permissions.


• Regularly update security patches to protect against vulnerabilities.


Network Design and Optimisation:

• Collaborate with senior engineers to design and enhance network architecture.


• Optimise network performance by fine-tuning configurations and addressing scalability.


• Evaluate new technologies and recommend improvements.


Documentation and Reporting:

• Create and update network documentation, including diagrams, configurations, and procedures.


• Generate regular reports on network performance, incidents, and trends.


• Maintain an inventory of network assets.


Collaboration and Support:

• Work closely with colleagues to resolve user queries related to network connectivity.


• Provide technical support to end-users on a helpdesk rota basis, troubleshooting connectivity issues.


• Assist in network-related projects, such as upgrades or migrations.


Compliance and Policies:

• Adhere to organisational policies regarding network usage, security, and data protection.


• Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.


• Participate in audits related to network infrastructure.


Background on department

Digital & IT is the backbone of Northumberland County Council and every department within the council depends on IT hardware, software and network connectivity. We have over 120 members of staff, support nearly 10,000 devices and users, support connections to over 400 buildings across Northumberland and are responsible for over 200 applications, many of which are business critical.

Type of person we are looking for

We are looking for an enthusiastic individual who is eager to learn and expand their knowledge and skills through hands-on experience.

Maths and English GCSE (or Equivalent) at Grade 4/C or above

Valid UK Driving Licence with use of a vehicle for work with valid business insurance

Some out of hours work may be required to apply configuration changes or apply network equipment updates.

Band 3 £23,500-£23,893

Contract Type

Fixed Term for duration of apprenticeship training, plus 6 months for End Point Assessment., We have some outstanding benefits to offer you, including:

• -26 days annual leave plus public/bank holidays


• -Automatic enrolment into the Local Government Pension Scheme

-Flexi scheme (if applicable) - up to 2 days flexible leave available per month (pro rata for part-time employees)
-Local government discount schemes available to all employees with offers at local businesses along with various national brands
-Commitment to work/life balance offering flexibility through various schemes including job sharing, flexible working, term-time only, and compressed hours
-A range of salary sacrifice schemes are available
Staff networks - run by staff, for staff, providing opportunities for peer networking, mutual support, staff development e.g. Apprenticeship, Armed Forces, ASD, Enable (disability), LGBT+, Menopause, Mental Wellbeing, Racial Equality