Apprentice, Spectrum Engineer Officer

  • COM1000 Office of Communications
  • Baldock, Hertfordshire
  • 12/07/2026
Full time Information Technology Telecommunications

Job Description

Overview

Closing Date: 22/07/2026. Group: Spectrum Group. Management Level: Apprentice. Job Type: Fixed Term. This is a field-based role covering the South of England. Regular travel is required. The successful candidate will attend the Baldock office approximately once per month for team meetings, training and development activities, and will participate in the apprenticeship elements at Birmingham City University.

About the Team

Ofcom's Spectrum Assurance Team is part of Spectrum Group's operational team. The team aims to keep the spectrum free from interference and to manage spectrum appropriately. The radio spectrum supports mobile networks, wireless devices, and critical services; it underpins how we communicate and access information daily.

Purpose of the Role

Opportunity to apply radio engineering skills while managing the UK's civil radio spectrum. As an Apprentice Spectrum Engineering Officer (ASEO), you will deliver high-quality spectrum assurance, supporting the statutory duties to protect and manage the UK's civil radio spectrum. The role combines technical expertise, problem-solving and investigative work to identify and resolve issues affecting spectrum users. As part of the apprenticeship, you will complete a fully funded Broadcast and Media Systems Engineer (Integrated Degree Apprenticeship) BEng (Hons) from Birmingham City University. You will collaborate with Ofcom's radio and telecoms stakeholders to investigate and resolve harmful interference cases, including issues that can affect safety-of-life systems and everyday services. You will gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art radio measurement equipment and real-time spectrum analysis tools, supported by relevant regulatory legislation. Comprehensive training will be provided to develop the skills needed for success.

Your key responsibilities
  • Investigate and resolve interference cases by working on cases from the Spectrum Management Centre; locate sources of interference and ensure timely resolution.
  • Provide advice and enforcement support to spectrum users and, when necessary, take enforcement action to maintain regulatory compliance.
  • Proactively monitor and investigate spectrum use; identify and address unlicensed or improper use to keep UK services on the air.
  • Manage the radio spectrum within your region; conduct fieldwork to monitor, inspect and investigate spectrum use, ensuring services operate legally and efficiently.
Skills, knowledge and experience

Core Skills

  • Evaluating problems: identify and solve issues using structured approaches and considering multiple solutions.
  • Executing plans: organise tasks, manage resources, and track progress.
  • Embracing change: stay flexible and adapt to shifts.
  • Forming relationships: build positive relationships inside and outside the organisation.
  • Articulating ideas: communicate clearly and concisely.
  • Pursuing growth: engage in self-reflection to identify strengths and areas for improvement.

To thrive in this role you will need

  • Passion for radio spectrum and engineering; pursuing or holding a BEng (Hons) in Engineering as part of the apprenticeship.
  • Technical and legal aptitude; willingness to develop understanding of radio engineering and legal case management (full training provided).
  • Hands-on and practical experience; readiness to work within an operational team using specialist spectrum equipment while following governance and safety practices.
  • Flexibility and mobility; open to UK-wide travel and committed to obtaining a full UK driving licence by December 2027.
  • Proactive and growth-oriented; self-motivated, receptive to feedback, and able to escalate issues when needed.
  • Collaboration and digital confidence; a team player who aligns with Ofcom values, IT-savvy and adaptable to new systems.
Diversity, inclusion and recruitment

Inclusive hiring is part of Ofcom's commitment. We welcome colleagues of all backgrounds, identities and experiences and support flexible working arrangements where possible. If you need adjustments or information in a different format, contact or . We are a Disability Confident Leader and provide guaranteed interviews for disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria.