The University of Sheffield is a remarkable place to work. Our people are at the heart of everything we do. Their diverse backgrounds, abilities and beliefs make Sheffield a world-class university.

We offer a fantastic range of benefits including a highly competitive annual leave entitlement (with the ability to purchase more), a generous pensions scheme, flexible working opportunities, a commitment to your development and wellbeing, a wide range of retail discounts, and much more. Find out more about our benefits (opens in a new window) and join us to become part of something special.

Overview

This job is part of an 18-month apprenticeship under which the apprentice will engage in on and off the job learning and development activities that will lead to a Level 3 in Human Resources. As part of the apprenticeship, the apprentice will be undertaking a Level 3 qualification. The role will sit within HR Services within Human Resources and will primarily be involved in supporting operational delivery. Training will be provided in all areas of activity.

Main duties and responsibilities

• Process a variety of documentation using templates, for example, recruitment, new contracts and contractual changes
• Use the University staff system, uBase (SAP), to create and maintain accurate HR/Payroll records/data, ensuring we meet procedural and legislative requirements
• Support the University’s talent attraction by reviewing and processing job descriptions via our electronic recruitment system (SuccessFactors Recruiting)
• Manage your workload, prioritising tasks to ensure work is completed in a timely manner and deadlines are met
• Work to deadlines independently and as part of your team
• Proactively support our staff and dedicated recruiters in School’s/Departments by providing valuable support and advice on a wide range of HR policies and procedures
• Ensure compliance with eligibility criteria for new starters and process DBS checks
• Work alongside the HR Services Team Leader using problem solving skills to proactively contribute to optimising workflows and streamline processes to contribute to improving processes
• Build relationships and work collaboratively with departmental/school contacts and associated departments such as Payroll and Pensions
• Attend relevant training and complete assignments as part of the apprenticeship programme along with off the job training elements
• Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post

Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.

Further Information

Next steps in the recruitment process

It is anticipated that the selection process will take place on 22July 2026. This will consist of an in-tray exercise and interview. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage on the week commencing 13 July 2026. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process you can contact Jennie Gladwin on j.m.gladwin@sheffield.ac.uk or on 01114 222 1614

Our vision and strategic plan

We are the University of Sheffield. This is our vision: sheffield.ac.uk/vision (opens in new window).

What we offer

• A minimum of 38 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.
• Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.
• Generous pension scheme.
• A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
• A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (for example, Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks).
• Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.
• A commitment to your development access to learning and mentoring schemes; integrated with our Professional Services Shared Skills Framework
• A range of generous family-friendly policies
  • paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies
  • support for those going through the menopause
  • paid time off and support for fertility treatment
  • and more

More details can be found on our benefits page: sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits (opens in a new window).

We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.

We are a research university with a global reputation for excellence. Our ideas and expertise change the world for the better, making a real difference to society. We know that when people come together with different views, approaches and insights it can lead to richer, more creative and innovative teaching and research and the highest levels of student experience. Our University Vision (www.sheffield.ac.uk/vision) outlines our commitment to building a diverse community of staff and students that recognises and values the abilities, backgrounds, beliefs and ways of living for everyone.