Artificial intelligence (AI) and automation practitioner
Level 4 · HigherDigital 1.5 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
An artificial intelligence (AI) and automation practitioner implements and manages AI tools, machine learning models, and automation solutions within business environments to improve processes, efficiency, and decision-making. Apprentices develop practical skills in data preparation, model deployment, automation scripting, and evaluating AI solutions, working alongside data scientists and business teams. This role can lead to AI engineer, automation specialist, or data analyst positions.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Core AI and machine learning concepts and common model types
Data preparation, cleaning, and feature engineering for AI models
Programming skills in Python or similar languages for automation
Deploying and monitoring AI models in operational environments
Process automation tools including robotic process automation (RPA)
Ethical AI principles and bias identification in AI systems
Evaluating AI solution performance and business impact
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Prepare and clean datasets to train and validate AI models
Build and test automation scripts to streamline business processes
Deploy AI models into production and monitor their performance
Identify opportunities to automate repetitive tasks in the organisation
Evaluate and compare AI tools for suitability in specific use cases
Document AI and automation solutions for business users
Collaborate with data scientists and business stakeholders on AI projects
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 4 (Higher) - roughly Foundation-degree level. Usually needs Level 3 (A-levels, a T-Level, or an Advanced apprenticeship) or relevant experience.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 5/6 apprenticeship or a more senior role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
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What it’s really like
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