Data Science & AI Degree Apprentice

Introduction

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.

About the Employer

AutoNet VIP is a growing, family-run vehicle repair and diagnostics business based in Harlow, Essex. We specialise in electric and hybrid vehicle technologies alongside traditional petrol and diesel models.

Built on a commitment to honest, high-quality service and cutting-edge diagnostic technology, the workshop handles everything from routine servicing and MOTs to complex electronic repairs and performance vehicles.

As a forward-thinking business, AutoNet VIP actively embraces digital innovation—including online booking systems, automated customer communications, and data-driven workshop management. We are dedicated to investing in future talent, supporting our apprentices with hands-on mentoring, modern technical facilities, and direct exposure to real-world commercial challenges.

What You'll Do

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 Outcome

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).

Skills Required

• 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

• Essential - GCSE - English Language - 4 or above
• Essential - GCSE - Maths - 4 or above
• Essential - A Level - Maths - B
• Essential - A Level - Non Specific - B
• Essential - A Level - Non Specific - B

Course Information

Course: Data scientist (integrated degree) (level 6)

Level: 6

Route: Digital

Apprenticeship Level: Degree

Working Arrangements

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

Training Provider: UNIVERSITY OF HERTFORDSHIRE