Software Developer Apprentice – North Hykenham (LN6 3AD)
Salary: £18,000
Hours & Location: 37.5 hours per week at our offices or University (including study day)
Benefits include:
25 days annual leave (inclusive of ~3 days December shutdown) • Buy or sell up to 5 days’ leave • Two pension schemes • Private Medical & Dental Insurance • Life Assurance (4 x salary) • Save and share schemes • Electric/Hybrid car leasing • Cycle to work • Retail discounts • Continuous Professional Development • Annual Wellness Allowance, and more, here: Life at MASS
Why this is the apprenticeship for you
Software sits at the heart of how modern defence and security systems operate. At MASS, our teams develop software that supports decision-making, data processing and secure environments across Defence and National Security.
As an apprentice in our Software Development team, you’ll be learning how to build that capability from the ground up, but this is not a “training only” role.
You’ll be contributing to real projects, working alongside experienced engineers, and developing the skills needed to become a professional software developer.
Alongside your role, you’ll complete a Level 6 Digital Solutions Professional Apprenticeship, giving you both practical experience and a recognised qualification.
You’ll be joining a team that genuinely enjoys developing people. We have a mix of early-career developers and highly experienced engineers, all of whom are approachable and invested in helping you succeed. You’ll be supported through coaching, mentoring and day-to-day collaboration, giving you the confidence to build your skills in a real-world environment.
What you’ll be working on
When you’re not at university, you’ll be part of a delivery team contributing to the design and development of software used in secure environments.
That could include:
• Supporting the development of applications and data systems
• Writing and testing code as part of a wider team
• Contributing to software design discussions
• Learning how to work through the full software development lifecycle
• Working with engineers, testers and users to understand requirements
You’ll have the opportunity to work on a variety of projects and technologies, helping you build a broad foundation while discovering where your interests and strengths lie.
You’ll spend most of your time on site with the team when not at university, learning directly from experienced developers and working in a collaborative environment.
This is where you’ll build your core skills, ask questions, and develop confidence in your ability as a software engineer.
How you’ll support us
You’ll develop the core skills needed to become a software engineer, while contributing to real delivery work. That means:
• Learning quickly and applying new knowledge in practice
• Taking ownership of your development and day-to-day tasks
• Working collaboratively as part of a team
• Approaching problems logically and methodically
• Being curious, asking questions and continuously improving
We’re looking for someone who enjoys solving problems and isn’t afraid to challenge the obvious solution to create better outcomes.
The invaluable experience you’ll bring, to help us achieve more
This is an early-career role, so we’re not expecting prior industry experience. What matters is your attitude, interest in technology, and willingness to learn.
Essential
- Passion for coding, technology and problem solving
- Logical and methodical thinking
- Ability to work as part of a team
- Strong communication skills
- Minimum of 5 GCSEs (grades 9–4 / A*–C), including Maths and English
- 3 A-levels (or equivalent), ideally in subjects such as Maths, Science or ICT
- Ability to work from our Lincoln office when not at university
Desirable
- Any experience with programming (formal or self-taught)
- Interest in how software is used in real-world environments
Our non-negotiables:
Due to the highly secure nature of the projects that you will be involved with, you must be:
- A UK National and eligible to work in the UK
- Eligible to obtain and maintain a UK Government Security Check (SC) security clearance (see guidance here)
Who is MASS?
MASS is an independent, global technology company, trusted by highly-secure organisations to provide advanced, digital services that manage data and keep information safe. With our heritage in defence, we offer robust solutions to sectors where security expertise is essential.
We work in partnership with customers, using skilled, technical experts. We think innovatively to provide tailored, agile and resilient solutions that secure advantage, so you’re ready for digital transformation. MASS is an equal opportunities employer; we know that our people are smart, skilled and motivated and in return we provide a friendly workplace where everyone is valued and has the chance to make an impact.
Apply today to see how working for MASS could work for you!