At Kainos, we’re problem solvers, innovators, and collaborators - driven by a shared mission to create real impact. Whether we’re transforming digital services for millions, delivering cutting-edge Workday solutions, or pushing the boundaries of technology, we do it together.
We believe in a people-first culture, where your ideas are valued, your growth is supported, and your contributions truly make a difference. Here, you’ll be part of a diverse, ambitious team that celebrates creativity and collaboration.
Ready to make your mark? Join us and be part of something bigger.
SALARY: £21,600 - £24,600
Placement/ Trainee Technologist
JOB PROFILE DESCRIPTION
WHAT IS A PLACEMENT?
Eligibility: Our Placement Programme is designed for undergraduate students who are in their second year of study and will be entering their third year. This 12-month fixed-term contract begins in the summer and is part of a sandwich year Placement at Level 6. It provides invaluable real-world industry experience. Please note that we can only consider applications from candidates who meet these criteria.
Purpose: The Placement aims to offer undergraduates a full year of industry experience between their second and final years of study, running from Summer to Summer. This opportunity allows students to apply classroom theory in a practical setting and gain valuable hands-on experience.
MAIN PURPOSE OF THE ROLE & RESPONSIBILITIES IN THE BUSINESS
As a Placement/Trainee Technologist with Kainos, you’ll work on projects that make a real difference to people’s lives – including the lives of people you know.
You’ll start your journey with our 8-week AI-first Technologist Academy, where you’ll build strong foundations in modern engineering practices, cloud platforms, quality assurance, low-code development, and data & AI.
After the academy, you’ll join our Early Careers Programme where you’ll gain hands-on experience across different roles, supported by experienced mentors and real project work. You will also continue to develop your technical, professional and business skills during this time.
At Kainos, we operate in a fast-moving, dynamic environment, so adaptability, curiosity, and a willingness to learn are key. You’ll have the opportunity to work across different teams, projects, and business units, developing the skills to become one of our future technical leaders.
What You’ll Experience
Software Engineering
You’ll learn to design, build, and maintain high-quality software solutions using modern programming languages and frameworks. Expect to work on scalable, secure applications that deliver real value to users.
Test / QA Engineering
You’ll develop skills in automated and manual testing, ensuring the quality and reliability of our solutions. You’ll learn how to embed quality into every stage of the development lifecycle.
Data & AI
You’ll explore how data and AI can transform services, from building data pipelines to applying machine learning and generative AI to solve real-world problems.
Low Code
You’ll use low-code platforms to rapidly deliver business solutions, learning how to combine speed with maintainability and integration best practices.
Platforms
You’ll gain experience in cloud infrastructure, DevOps, and automation, ensuring our solutions are secure, scalable, and performant.
Upon Completion
You’ll graduate from the Early Careers Programme with a broad technical foundation and the skills to shape our future. Many of our leaders started their careers this way – in fact, 11 of our 17 leadership team members are Early Careers alumni!
You Will Be:
Developing high-quality solutions that impact users worldwide
Working as part of a team to solve problems and deliver innovative software
Learning new technologies and approaches with support from talented colleagues
Contributing to real projects, from design through to deployment
Working in Agile teams to deliver value iteratively and collaboratively
Building excellent technical, teamwork, and communication skills
MINIMUM (ESSENTIAL) REQUIREMENTS:
Currently studying towards at least a Level 6 bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject
Familiarity with at least one programming language
Understanding of the software development lifecycle from studies or experience
Ability to make effective decisions with team support in a fast-paced environment
We all work in teams here in Kainos – so a proven ability of strong team skills, including taking direction from others, is crucial
Strong communication and problem-solving skills
A collaborative mindset and willingness to learn
Demonstrated willingness to learn generative technologies (such as Generative AI tools) to drive innovation, streamline processes, or deliver impactful results within the role.
DESIRABLE:
Exposure to cloud platforms, test automation, or data tools
Experience working on projects (academic or personal) that demonstrate curiosity and initiative
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE APPLYING:
Working Arrangements: Upon joining, you will be expected to work in your contracted office for 5 days per week for the duration of the 8 week AI-First Technologist Academy. After which, you can work hybrid in agreement with your People Manager. Ensuring you are available to attend the office or client sites when required to do so.
Travel expectations: At Kainos, we work with a diverse range of clients and some of our projects require travel. If travel were required, we will endeavour to keep this to a minimum and ensure sufficient notice is provided.
Popularity of scheme: We’re looking forward to receiving and reviewing your application. We strongly encourage you to apply early. If a high number of applications are received, this role may close earlier than the advertised deadline. In cases where a large volume of applications is received, the recruitment team will apply enhanced criteria to refine the shortlisting process.
Completing your application: We recommend avoiding the LinkedIn quick apply function, as it may alter the format of your CV and exclude important details.
Instead, please apply directly via the Kainos Careers website: Your Kainos story starts here
Please note that the application process is two parts, completing a questionnaire and uploading your CV. It is important that you complete the questionnaire in full, to the best of your ability.
Once the role closes, the Job Description will no longer be accessible. We recommend saving a copy in advance.
TIMELINES*
Closing Date – Tuesday 21st October 2025
Virtual Assessment Centre – 13th – 21st November 2025
Outcomes Communicated – W/C 1st December 2025
Start Date – June/July 2026
*Dates are subject to change due to business needs
If you have any questions, please get in touch with the Kainos Early Careers Talent Acquisition Team: [email protected]
At Kainos, we believe in the power of diversity, equity and inclusion. We are committed to building a team that is as diverse as the world we live in, where everyone is valued, respected, and given an equal chance to thrive. We actively seek out talented people from all backgrounds, regardless of age, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or any other characteristic that makes them who they are. We also believe every candidate deserves a level playing field.
Our friendly talent acquisition team is here to support you every step of the way, so if you require any accommodations or adjustments, we encourage you to reach out.
We understand that everyone's journey is different, and by having a private conversation we can ensure that our recruitment process is tailored to your needs.
Top Skills
Kainos Belfast, Northern Ireland Office
4-6 Upper Crescent, Belfast, United Kingdom, BT7 1NT
