IT Cloud Technician Apprentice

About Health Research Authority:

This role sits within Health Research Authority Digital. The digital directorate is responsible for developing, delivering and supporting complex solutions within the HRA's portfolio of UK-wide information systems for health and care research. This includes a major programme to build new systems, and to achieve the successful migration and eventual closure of current systems.

The HRA Digital team is a collaborative, supportive team consisting of HRA employees, secondees, contractors and vendors

About the role:

You will support the delivery and maintenance of Microsoft Azure cloud services. This role involves provisioning resources, monitoring systems, troubleshooting issues, and assisting with cloud migrations. You'll work closely with senior engineers to ensure secure, reliable, and high-performing cloud infrastructure aligned with government digital standards.

The role is UK-based remote working with occasional travel to HRA regional offices. Occasional travel and overnight stays may be required.

Responsibilities:

• Build and configure Azure cloud resources (VMs, storage, networks) using Infrastructure-as-Code templates.
• Monitor performance and health of Azure systems using Azure Monitor.
• Diagnose and resolve cloud-related incidents and service requests.
• Implement approved changes, updates, and patches in the Azure environment.
• Support Azure security controls and monitor for vulnerabilities.
• Provide technical support and training to internal users.
• Automate cloud operations using PowerShell, Azure CLI, or similar tools.
• Identify cost optimization opportunities and recommend improvements.
• Maintain accurate documentation of cloud configurations and changes.
• Participate in procurement processes for cloud services and software.
• Share reports from Azure portal and advise on best practices.
• Implement and monitor compliance policies within Azure/M365.

You will need the following skills:

Essential:

• Degree in computer science, IT, or equivalent professional experience.
• Microsoft Azure certification (minimum AZ-900).
• Practical experience with Microsoft Azure services.
• Basic scripting ability (PowerShell, Azure CLI, Bicep).
• Commitment to inclusivity and diversity.

Desirable:

• ITIL Foundation certification.
• Proficiency in .NET.
• Experience in IT infrastructure or support roles.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and in teams.
• Self-motivated and proactive.
• Effective documentation and presentation skills.

Entry requirements:

• 3 GCSEs (or equivalent) at grades 4+ (A-C) in any subject
• GCSE Maths and English (or equivalents) at grades 3+ (D or above)
• Prospective apprentices must not hold an existing qualification at the same or higher level as this apprenticeship is in a similar subject

You may also have a combination of qualifications and experience which demonstrate the minimum foundation needed for the programme. In this instance you could still be considered for the programme.

If you hold international equivalents of the above qualifications, at the time of your application you must be able to provide an official document that states how your international qualifications compare to the UK qualifications.

For more information please visit the UK ENIC website.

Working hours: 37.5 hours per week.

Benefits:

• Generous pension scheme.
• Access to a wide range of education and development opportunities.
• Free eye tests.
• 2 days paid leave per year for voluntary work.
• 27 days annual leave (increasing with length of service) + 8 bank holidays.
• Up to 52 weeks maternity leave.
• Flexible working policies.
• Discounts on high street and online products/services.
• Option to buy and sell additional annual leave.
• 2 weeks full pay maternity support leave.
• Interest-free season ticket loans.
• NHS car lease scheme.
• Work/life balance policies.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Active diversity & inclusion networks.
• Interest-free study loans.

Future prospects:

The possibility of full time employment.

About QA:

Our apprenticeships are the perfect way to gain new skills, earn while you learn, and launch yourself into an exciting future. With over 50,000 successful apprenticeship graduates, we're a top 50 training provider, dedicated to helping you succeed!

Interested? Apply now!

Please be advised that this advert may close prior to the closing date stated above if a high number of applications are received. If you are interested in this vacancy please apply below as soon as possible.