Your digital career starts here

The Digital Talent Management Programme helps people start and develop careers in digital and technology at Leeds City Council.

Based in the Integrated Digital Service (IDS), the programme offers apprenticeship and graduate opportunities where you can learn new skills, gain practical experience and work on services that make a difference to people across Leeds.

We are looking for people who are curious, motivated and interested in using technology to improve public services. You do not need years of experience to apply; we will support you to learn, develop and build your career with us.

You will be supported by experienced colleagues, given opportunities to learn and encouraged to contribute to meaningful digital work from the start.

Level 4 apprenticeships

Our Level 4 apprenticeships are two-year programmes that combine work-based learning with formal training. You will gain practical experience in a digital role while working towards a recognised qualification.

At the end of the programme, successful apprentices may be offered a permanent role, where a suitable opportunity is available.

Our 2026 Level 4 apprenticeships are expected to start in September 2026, with applications opening in July, subject to confirmation. The following roles are expected to be advertised:

• 1 x Apprentice (AI & Automation)
• 1 x Apprentice (Business Analyst)
• 1 x Apprentice (Data Analyst)
• 1 x Apprentice (Software Developer)
• 1 x Apprentice (Software Tester)

Graduate programme

Our graduate programme is for people who have a bachelor’s degree (BA/BSc) or higher. The next cohort is expected to start in September 2026.

The programme will help you build technical skills, gain hands-on experience and contribute to digital projects that support council services. The following roles are expected to be advertised in July, subject to confirmation:

• 1 x Graduate Trainee (AI & Automation)
• 1 x Graduate Trainee (DevOps)
• 1 x Graduate Trainee (Digital Workplace)
• 2 x Graduate Trainee (Networks)

If successful, you will work on a range of projects, develop your technical knowledge and apply your learning to real-world challenges in local government.

All roles are 37 hours per week. You will spend time in the workplace, learn about different areas of digital change and receive study time as part of the programme.

You will need to show commitment, good time management and the ability to learn and adapt in a busy digital environment.

Who can apply

To apply for an apprenticeship, you must meet the essential criteria for the role. This will usually include:

• be aged 16 or over and not in full-time education.
• have the right to work in the UK.
• hold, or be working towards, the qualifications listed in the job advert.
• have gained a level 3 qualification, such as A Levels, where this is required or preferred for the role.
• demonstrate a keen interest in IT and related fields.
• show commitment to the full two-year apprenticeship at work and in the classroom.
• not hold a higher qualification, such as a degree, in a related subject.

To apply for a graduate trainee role, you must:

• be aged 18 or over and not in full-time education.
• have the right to work in the UK.
• hold a bachelor’s degree (BA/BSc) or higher. A related subject is desirable.
• show enthusiasm, professionalism and initiative.
• show commitment to the full two-year graduate programme at work and during study periods.

How to apply

All opportunities will be advertised on our recruitment platform. Choose the role or specialism that interests you and apply online.

Before you apply, check that you meet the eligibility criteria and read the job advert and job description carefully. We can only consider applications from people who meet the essential requirements for the role.

To help with your application, we recommend that you:

• gather the necessary documents for your application, such as your CV and academic certificates.
• download the job advert and job description for future reference. You won’t be able to see it on the job site after the closing date.
• refer to our guidance notes on completing your application.
• think about all your relevant skills, qualifications and experience, such as digital projects or previous work in IT, so you can highlight these in your application.

When you are ready to apply:

• click the apply button beside the job advert to access our recruitment portal.
• create an account so you can log in and check the progress of your application.
• complete your application. You can save it and return to it at any time before you submit.

After the closing date, we will shortlist the candidates who best match the essential requirements in the job description. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an in-person group assessment session and interview. Find out more about interviews and assessment processes.