Data Science & AI Degree Apprentice
Launch your tech career with AutoNet VIP! Work directly with live business data to develop machine learning models, intelligent booking tools, and automated customer solutions. You'll gain hands-on commercial experience while studying for a debt-free BSc (Hons) Data Science degree at the University of Hertfordshire.
Role
Data preparation and management: Collect, clean, organise, and structure business data from booking records, customer enquiries, diagnostic reports, and workshop logs.
Data analysis and statistical modelling: Analyse trends in workshop capacity, customer behaviour, repeat visits, and vehicle fault patterns using Python and data-analysis tools.
Dashboards and data visualisation: Build and maintain interactive dashboards and reports to present key performance metrics clearly to managers, technicians, and customer service teams.
AI and machine learning development: Build, train, and test machine learning models to forecast workshop demand, predict repair requirements, and optimise appointment scheduling.
Process automation: Help develop intelligent tools, such as an automated customer enquiry system using Natural Language Processing (NLP) to categorise queries and streamline bookings.
Cross-functional collaboration: Work closely with workshop technicians, management, and administrative colleagues to translate operational challenges into data-driven solutions.
Data ethics and governance: Ensure all customer, vehicle, and operational data is handled in strict compliance with data security, privacy, and ethical guidelines.
Training
Qualification and Delivery Model
You will study towards a Level 6 BSc (Hons) Data Science Degree Apprenticeship awarded by the University of Hertfordshire.
Training Locations
Workplace Mentoring: AutoNet VIP workshop based in Harlow, Essex.
Academic Delivery: University of Hertfordshire, College Lane / de Havilland Campus, Hatfield, AL10 9AB.
Training Schedule & Structure
Study Mode: Delivered through a blended learning model, combining scheduled campus teaching blocks or day-release sessions at the University of Hertfordshire with guided online study.
Off-the-Job Training: At least 20% of your paid working hours will be dedicated to off-the-job training, university study, and completing assignments.
On-the-Job Learning: Continuous workplace mentoring by senior colleagues at AutoNet VIP, applying technical learning directly to live automotive datasets and software systems.
Review & Support: Regular progress reviews and Tripartite Review Meetings involving you, your workplace mentor, and your University of Hertfordshire Apprenticeship Progress Tutor to support your professional and academic milestones.
Upon successful completion of the Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship and graduation with a BSc (Hons) in Data Science, a permanent position within AutoNet VIP will be available for a high-performing apprentice.
As AutoNet VIP continues its digital transformation and business growth, career progression routes include:
Data Scientist / AI Specialist: Leading the design, training, and deployment of machine-learning models, predictive maintenance tools, and automated operational systems across the workshop network.
Business Intelligence & Analytics Lead: Managing company dashboards, commercial reporting, customer retention analytics, and data infrastructure to drive strategic business decisions.
Digital Solutions & Automation Developer: Overseeing the technical roadmap for customer booking platforms, automated communications, and garage-management system integrations.
Postgraduate Study & Specialisation: Progression opportunities towards professional body registration (e.g. RSS, BCS) or Level 7 postgraduate study (such as an MSc or Level 7 Artificial Intelligence / Data Specialist Degree Apprenticeship).
- Apprenticeship Standard
- Data scientist (integrated degree) (level 6)
- Training Provider
- UNIVERSITY OF HERTFORDSHIRE
- Working Week
- Monday to Friday, between 8:00am and 5:00pm (or 8:30am to 5:00pm, exact shift pattern to be agreed). University attendance and study time are integrated into these working hours. Occasional Saturday working may be required.
- Expected Duration
- 3 Years
- Positions Available
- 1
- Closing Date
- Tuesday, 25th August 2026
- Start Date
- Monday, 28th September 2026
Desired Skills
- Communication skills
- IT skills
- Attention to detail
- Customer care skills
- Problem solving skills
- Presentation skills
- Number skills
- Analytical skills
- Logical
- Team working
- Initiative
- Curiosity
- Commercial awareness
- Continuous learning mindset
- Data security and ethics aware
Qualifications
- English Language GCSE, grade 4 or above (Essential)
- Maths GCSE, grade 4 or above (Essential)
- Maths A Level, grade B (Essential)
- Non Specific A Level, grade B (Essential)
- Non Specific A Level, grade B (Essential)