Business Support Officer; Apprenticeship

Job Overview

Working Hours: 35 Hours Per Week

Contract Type: Full‑Time, Apprenticeship

Additional Payments: Casual Car Allowance

Closing Date: 19 March 2026 at 11:59pm

This higher‑level apprenticeship will culminate in a Business Administrator Standards Level 3 qualification. Apprentices who do not hold grade C/4 in GCSE Maths and/or English must pass a functional skills equivalent as part of the training.

• Provide direct support for senior managers and Neighbourhood Compliance Officers, including electronic diary management.
• Raise invoices, conduct data entry and manage general office tasks.
• Compile written witness statements and photographic exhibits for use in court.
• Maintain a database of business operations and waste contract details, and assist the Commercial Waste Project officers in retrieving relevant information.
• Use ICT systems such as Microsoft Outlook, Word and Excel and communicate effectively with senior managers, businesses and partners.

• Essential
  :
  Excellent written and verbal communication skills; strong people skills; proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook); typing speed and accuracy; attention to detail.
• Desirable
  :
  Driving licence (not required but beneficial for career progression within Manchester Council).
• Completion of the apprenticeship framework and allowance for suitable background checks.

• Proof of Right to Work in the UK (or relevant visa documentation).
• References from current and previous employer(s).
• Proof of qualifications relevant to the role.
• Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check.
• Proof of Manchester Residency (for eligible roles).
• Police vetting where required.
• Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) Clearance for access to government data.
• Valid driving licence where the role requires driving.

• Generous holiday allowance – up to 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing to 31 days after five years of local government service, with the option to purchase up to two additional weeks.
• UK’s largest local government pension scheme, including life cover of three‑times salary as a lump sum.
• Enhanced parental and carers leave – designed to provide ample time for bonding and critical life events.
• Wide range of perks – discounts on weekly shop, holidays, phone contracts, cycle‑to‑work, free flu jabs, eye tests and more.
• Learning and development – workshops, training sessions, apprenticeships and qualifications with an inclusive onboarding process.
• Employment Charter benefits – secure, flexible work, annual pay reviews, union recognition and comprehensive health and wellbeing support.
• Up to 3 days pro‑rate paid volunteering leave.

At Manchester City Council we value diversity and encourage applications from Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic communities, disabled people and young applicants. We provide accessible formats and interview adjustments for applicants who need them.

We guarantee assessments for applicants who meet the minimum shortlisting requirements and identify with at least one of the following criteria:

• Current or former Armed Forces members or veterans.
• Current or former care leavers.
• Individuals with a disability or long‑term condition.

For more information about the role, any adjustments or support, or to discuss the application process, email

Applicants must evidence their right to work in the UK before the commencement of employment. This role is not eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route according to Manchester City Council policy.

Artificial Intelligence can support your application. All content submitted must be truthful, factually accurate, and generated from your own experience. Plagiarism or false statements may lead to withdrawal or disciplinary action.

We adhere to all data protection and accessibility standards. All information shared will be handled confidentially and in line with the DBS Code of Practice.

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