IS Graduate Apprentice Analyst (DBA)

Computing and Information Services

Grade 5: - £27,319 - £30,378 per annum

Apprentice - Full Time

Contract Duration: 5yr

Contracted Hours per Week: 35

Working Arrangements: Standard working hours

Closing Date: 09-Mar-2026, 6:59:00 PM

Disclosure and Barring Service Requirement: Not Applicable.

The University

At Durham University we are proud of our people. A globally outstanding centre of educational excellence, a collegiate community of extraordinary people, a unique and historic setting – Durham is a university like no other. Across the University we have a huge variety of roles and career opportunities, which together make us a large and successful community, which is a key hub of activity within our region and nationally. Whether you are at the very start, middle or end of your career, there is a role for you. We believe everyone has their own unique skills to offer.

We would be thrilled if you would consider joining our thriving University. Further information about the University can be found on our website.

The Role and the Department

The role supports the IS manager of the Database Administration (DBA) team with the management, maintenance and optimisation of effective DBA services to the University and, is part of the wider Information Services (IS) collection of teams, which underpins the delivery of customer focused information systems and services.

This role offers excellent opportunities to gain hands-on experience with data technologies, while enabling the post holder to develop advanced DBA skills. Specifically, the post holder will undertake activities relating to, and work with increasing independence to:

• Assist in daily database maintenance and monitoring activities.
• Perform regular database backups and validate recovery procedures.
• Support database upgrades and patch installations.
• Monitor database performance and troubleshoot issues under senior DBA guidance.
• Support data security measures, including user access control and encryption.
• Help maintain database documentation, schemas, and procedures.
• Run queries and generate reports as requested by internal teams.
• Participate in database migration and upgrade projects.
• Ensure compliance with data protection regulations and company policies.
• Undertake incident ownership and management.

The Computing and Information Services (CIS) has an annual operational budget in excess of £27m, including multi-million pound programmes of change within year, and approximately 172 staff. The Senior Leadership Team report directly to the Chief Information Officer (CIO) with the following portfolios: Strategy and Change; Technical Services; Information Services; and Cyber Security. CIS work with departments across the university to provide academic, teaching and administrative services that underpin the day-to-day activities of the whole organisation.

Working at Durham

A competitive salary is only one part of the many fantastic benefits you will receive if you join the University. You’ll receive 27 days annual leave per year in addition to 8 public holidays and 4 customary days per year - a total of 39 days. The University closes between Christmas and New Year.

We offer facilities for various methods of commuting, including on-campus parking and a cycle to work scheme. Discounts are available with local bus and train companies. You can access exclusive discounts via our benefits portal, including money off at supermarkets, high street retailers, and more.

Our on-site nursery is rated Outstanding by Ofsted, and you can access holiday camps for children aged 5-16. We also provide wide-ranging health and wellbeing support, including discounted membership for our state-of-the-art sport and gym facilities and access to a 24-7 Employee Assistance Programme.

If you are keen on advancing in your role or career, we have a genuine passion for developing our colleagues from qualifications to IT skills, courses, and apprenticeships. We offer generous pension schemes with varying contribution amounts to help you plan for your future.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Durham University is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, aiming to create an open and inclusive environment where everyone can reach their full potential. We believe our staff should reflect the diversity of the global community in which we work.

Qualifications/Experience

• Five GCSEs at least Grade C or level four (or equivalent) including English Language and Mathematics or a Post-16 qualification or equivalent experience.
• Degree level qualification and demonstrable experience of software coding skills learned within: a formal IT role, or; within an education setting, or; via a hobby.
• Experience of working within a team to ensure the delivery of high-quality services.
• Experience of providing advice and guidance to a range of customers and colleagues.
• Experience of managing time to meet deadlines.
• Residency eligibility - The apprentice must have the legal right to work in England.

Skills/Abilities/Knowledge

• Excellent spoken and written communication skills and the ability to develop effective working relationships, both internally and externally.
• Strong digital competence with demonstrable skills in using core digital tools.
• Industry or professional knowledge/recognition relevant to the role supported by relevant courses or certification.
• Committed to continuing professional development.
• Ability to solve problems yourself and as part of a team and plan appropriate solutions.
• Knowledge of health and safety issues.
• Experience in at least 2 mainstream scripting languages, including JavaScript.

Desirable Criteria

• Basic understanding of SQL and relational database concepts, including database security principles.
• Familiarity with database platforms such as MySQL, Oracle, or Microsoft SQL Server.
• Basic understanding of SQL, PL/SQL, T-SQL.