Trainee Digital Services Designer
Job Summary
Contract Type:
Fixed Term
Working Pattern:
Full time
Advert Start Date:
30/10/2026
Advert End Date:
15/11/2026 23:59
Salary:
£27,274 - £33,119
Job Category:
Apprenticeships
Employment Location:
Stockton-on-Tees
Further Information
Are you creative, curious and passionate about technology?
Do you enjoy solving problems, understanding how people use digital services and finding better ways to do things?
Would you like to earn a degree while gaining real-world experience and building a career in digital design?
If so, this could be the perfect opportunity for you!
Digital Services and Systems
At Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, we're transforming the way people access our services through innovative, user-centred digital solutions. From improving online customer journeys to developing accessible digital services that make a genuine difference to residents, businesses and colleagues, our Digital Services and Systems team is at the heart of that transformation. The work you do will help thousands of our residents access Council services more easily and efficiently.
We're looking for a motivated and enthusiastic individual to join us as a Trainee Digital Services Designer on a three-year apprenticeship. This is an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on experience whilst completing a fully funded BSc (Hons) Digital User Experience (UX) Professional Degree Apprenticeship. Over the course of the programme, you'll develop specialist skills in user research, service design, digital accessibility, customer experience and digital product development, helping shape the future of digital services across the Council.
About the role
As a Trainee Digital Services Designer, you'll work alongside experienced professionals to design, develop and improve digital services that are simple, accessible and focused on customer needs.
The role will involve:
- Designing and improving digital services that make it easier for customers to access Council services.
- Using research, customer feedback and data to understand user needs and identify opportunities for improvement.
- Supporting the development, testing and delivery of innovative digital solutions.
- Working collaboratively with colleagues and stakeholders to improve customer experience and service outcomes.
- Building your professional knowledge and skills through the Digital User Experience (UX) Professional Degree Apprenticeship.
This is a career graded apprenticeship post with progression each year, enabling you to develop your skills, increase your responsibilities and start a rewarding career in digital services.
About you
We're looking for someone who:
- Has 120 UCAS points through A Levels, BTEC or an equivalent Level 3 qualification.
- Has GCSE English and Maths at Grade 4/C or above.
- Is passionate about digital technology and improving customer experiences.
- Has a positive attitude, a willingness to learn and a genuine curiosity about how digital services are designed and delivered.
- Enjoys analysing information, solving problems and coming up with creative solutions.
- Can communicate effectively with a wide range of people.
- Has strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
- Works well independently and as part of a team.
- Able to commit to completing a degree qualification alongside working full time.
Please note: Apprenticeship funding rules apply. Applicants must not already hold a qualification at the same or higher level in a closely related subject area.
No previous experience in digital design is required. We're looking for someone who is genuinely enthusiastic about technology, curious about how digital services work and eager to learn.
To learn more about the role and what we're looking for, please refer to the Job Description and Person Specification in the Supporting Documents section.
Why join us?
At Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, we know that great people deliver great services. That's why we are committed to creating a workplace where employees are trusted, valued and supported.
In return, we offer an attractive benefits package designed to support your career, wellbeing and work-life balance, including:
- A competitive career-graded salary to allow you to earn whilst you learn
- Generous annual leave entitlement of 27 days, increasing to 32 days after 5 years’ service.
- Local Government Pension Scheme with ability to pay extra and plan for retirement.
- Access to a number of other employee benefits including learning & development opportunities, a car lease scheme, discounts at high street and online retailers, access to online GP appointments, an employee assistance programme and physiotherapy services.
Think this could be the right opportunity for you?
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact:
Lynn Whitecross – Digital Solutions Manager
Lynn.Whitecross@stockton.gov.uk
Otherwise, click ‘Apply Now’ to submit your application.
Please note that we’re unable to provide visa sponsorship for this role, so candidates will need to have an existing right to work in the UK.
Important Applicant Guidance
Accuracy and Use of AI Tools: You must ensure that anything submitted in your application is factually accurate. Plagiarism can include presenting the ideas and experience of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, as your own. Whilst we accept candidates may use AI tools within job applications; submissions must be truthful and relevant to your own experience.
Application Updates and Communication: All updates regarding your application, including interview invitations, will be sent from ‘DONOTREPLY@NORTHEASTJOBS.ORG.UK’ to the email linked to your North East Jobs account, and will also appear in the ‘My Messages’ section of your account.
Right to Work: All applicants must provide valid proof of their right to work in the UK in accordance with Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council’s statutory employment checks. Employment cannot commence or continue unless this has been verified.
Council Principles: The Council’s recruitment principles require fairness, transparency, and a commitment to attracting and developing local talent.
Limitations: Where an individual cannot demonstrate a valid right to work in the UK, the Council will be unable to progress or continue the appointment. This includes cases where an existing employee’s visa is due to expire and sponsorship is not granted.