Apprentice – Payroll (People & Culture)
Contract Type: Fixed Term 22 Months (Apprenticeship)
Hours: 37 hours per per week (Flexible Working)
Interview Date: April / May 2026
Start Date: Summer 2026
Ready to start your career AND earn a real wage?
Whether you’re finishing school/college/university, changing direction, or just want to learn something new, an apprenticeship with Devon County Council is a brilliant way to build your future.
You’ll gain a recognised qualification, get paid from day one, and learn real skills from friendly people who want you to succeed — all without having to worry about student debt.
Why this apprenticeship is a great opportunity
1. Highly competitive salary - £25,583 in your first year
2. Work towards a Level 3 Payroll Administrator qualification
3. Get one day a week to learn with your training provider
4. Build real experience in a professional team
5. Join a workplace that supports you every step of the way
6. Plus: 26 days’ holiday, bank holidays off, great pension, and discounts (including gyms!)
And the best bit? Devon County Council has a great track record of retaining apprentices so there’s a good chance of a long-term career here.
What you’ll be doing
You’ll be part of our friendly Payroll team, helping make sure everyone gets paid correctly and on time. Don’t worry if you’ve never done payroll before — you’ll learn everything you need.
Your tasks might include:
7. Helping people with payroll queries
8. Keeping records up to date in our payroll system
9. Assisting with monthly payroll and pension processes
10. Checking reports and analysing data
11. Working with HR, recruitment and other teams to make sure information is accurate
12. Learning how payroll works from start to finish
You’ll get loads of support, on‑the‑job training, and the chance to build confidence in a real workplace.
Who can apply?
This role is ideal for:
13. School, college or University leavers
14. Anyone looking for a career change
15. Anyone who wants to learn while earning
You’ll need to demonstrate a genuine interest in the role.
The Payroll Apprenticeships require Grade 4 in English and Maths — if you don’t have these yet, you will be required to complete functional skills alongside your apprenticeship.
No payroll experience needed — just enthusiasm and willingness to learn.
Want to chat first?
We’d love to talk to you!
16. Sarah Groom – Head of Payroll
| 01392 385890
17. Sarah Jones – Deputy Payroll Manager
| 01392 385206
Hear from other apprentices
See what it’s like working as an apprentice at Devon County Council:
How to apply
Please ensure when completing your application form that you provide a supporting statement which demonstrates how you meet the essential and desirable criteria as described in the person specification of the job description. Applications may not be taken forwards if the supporting statement is not adequately completed.
Internal Applicants, please note: If you are an existing DCC employee, please use your iTrent Employee Self Service (ESS) details to log in and apply.
Please click Apply Now to see the Job Description.
18. DCC embraces the positive benefits of a diverse workforce and is committed to providing an environment that is inclusive and safe. We welcome applications from people who share our commitment to stop discrimination, challenge inequality and promote diversity across Devon. More information can be found on our.
19. - The Council offers flexible working arrangements in terms of when and where people work hybrid working, part-time, condensed hours etc.
20. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
21. This role requires the ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence and fluency in English.
22. Personal data we collect from you will be processed in accordance with the .
23.