BUSINESS FUNCTION:Finance
SALARY:£25,889 per annum
ROLE TYPE:Hybrid
HOURS:37 per week
LOCATION:York

Apprentice Test Analyst

Every reliable rail journey depends on smooth-running systems behind the scenes. As an Apprentice Test Analyst at Northern, you’ll help make sure our digital tools work the way they should – and get the chance to build a rewarding career in tech while you're at it.

Our IT team are a bunch of tech-savvy, creative problem solvers who help keep things moving from behind the screen. With new projects rolling out across the business and plenty of change on the horizon, there's never been a more exciting time to join us. Based mainly at our York office, you'll work side by side with experienced testers and developers, learning the ropes and helping us make sure every system runs smoothly and securely.

What you’ll be doing

Supporting the planning, execution and tracking of software testing activities.
Helping to write test plans, test cases and scripts based on project requirements.
Running tests, logging results and identifying issues that need fixing.
Supporting the setup and maintenance of test environments.
Getting hands-on with automation tools and frameworks.
Learning the principles of security testing.
Keeping testing documentation up to date.
Communicating clearly with teammates, stakeholders and clients.
Helping ensure that all our systems meet quality and performance standards.

About you

A logical mind, an eye for detail and a love of tech – that’s what we’re looking for. You might already have some experience through work placements or a junior role, but it’s not essential. If you’re curious, organised and ready to get stuck in, you’ll fit right in.

You’ll also need:

5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 5 (A* to C), including English and Maths

Why choose an Apprenticeship with Northern?

On this Level 4 Software Developer Apprenticeship, you’ll work towards the ISTQB Foundation qualification and get the support you need to grow your skills and confidence. From training sessions and regular feedback to working closely with mentors and getting involved in live projects, you’ll learn by doing – and have a team around you every step of the way.

What’s in it for you?

At Northern, we don’t just value our people - we go the extra mile to support them. Here’s a taste of what you can look forward to:

Free Travel: Unlimited free travel for you, your partner, and your dependents on Northern services. Plus up to 75% discount on other networks in the UK and Europe.
Generous Pension Scheme: We top up your contributions by 1.5 times.
Enhanced Family Benefits: We offer 9 months of full pay for maternity leave and 2 weeks for paternity leave.
Exclusive Discounts: From shopping to wellbeing, Northern Perks has you covered.
Employee Assistance Programme: 24/7 support for family, lifestyle, and more.
Training and Career Development: We offer tailored training to our colleagues and opportunities to gain recognised qualifications. Plus enhanced career pathways no matter what part of the business you’re in.
Recognition: We know how important it is to show how much we appreciate our people. That’s why we have our Northern Lights and Northern Sparks Awards, recognising and celebrating brilliance every day.

Why Northern?

We’re more than just a train operator. We’re the heartbeat of the North - connecting communities, creating opportunities, and driving sustainable growth. With 2,500 trains running daily, we’re on a mission to improve rail travel and enhance the customer experience while protecting the environment.

Back in 1825, the first passenger train set off in the North of England, after which rail quickly spread across the globe - and this year, we’re celebrating 200 years of the modern railway. As we look back on the historic events that led us here, we also look towards the future as we move into the era of Great British Rail. Join us at this pivotal moment in rail history and play your part in our journey.

A place for everyone

The best journeys happen when everyone feels welcome on board.

At Northern, we don’t just move people from A to B - we’re building a team where everyone feels they belong. Our talent team can make reasonable adjustments to the process if that’s something you need. We're also a Level 2 Disability Confident employer, so if you meet the minimum criteria for the role, we’ll always offer an interview.

We automate parts of our screening process to remove any unconscious bias and to make sure every application is treated fairly. All successful offers will be subject to a DBS check and a medical assessment.

No matter your background, experience, or whether you call it a bap, barm, or cob… there’s a place for you here in the railway.

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