Think you know NEXT? We’re more than your favourite High Street store. We’re a global FTSE-100 brand powered by 44,000+ people across 80 countries. We believe true progress comes from the initiative of the many, not just the guidance of a few. That’s why we give everyone the room to take decisions, challenge the status quo, and push boundaries every single day. Here, everybody makes a difference, and we do it all by being open, honest, and decent. Whatever your ambition, let's take it on.
Trainee AI & Automation Engineer
- Job ID
- Job ID 77616
- Team
- Team Digital & Marketing
- Location
- Location Leicester
- Contract Type
- Contract Type Perm
- Job Schedule
- Job Schedule Full time
- Salary
- Salary £31,145
- Posting Date
- Posting Date 22/10/2026
- Apply Before
- Apply Before 02/11/2026
Summary
We are looking for a Trainee Site Ops AI & Automation Engineer to join the Developments team and support the growth of automation and AI-driven solutions. Based at NEXT Head Office in Leicestershire.
This role will have a start date of July 2027.
About The Role
Our eCommerce Development team is responsible for implementing, testing and building on UX designs, alongside the requirements of our partnered brands and overall website content.
As a Trainee Site Ops AI & Automation Engineer, you’ll support the transformation of operational workflows by assisting in the development of automation and AI-driven solutions. Working closely with experienced engineers, you’ll help streamline repetitive tasks, improve accuracy and contribute to more efficient ways of working.
Embedded within the Site Operations team, you’ll gain hands-on experience in building practical automation tools while developing your technical skills and understanding of AI-supported workflows.
This is a 12-18 month trainee programme where you will learn and develop your skills to become a Site Ops AI & Automation Engineer.
What You’ll Take On
Business Process Automation
- Assist in identifying repetitive or manual processes where automation could improve efficiency.
- Support the development of Python-based scripts to reduce manual effort and improve accuracy.
- Work with team members to understand existing workflows and contribute to automation solutions.
- Help maintain and improve existing automation tools and scripts.
- Contribute to documenting processes and sharing knowledge across the team.
- Learn how automation impacts performance, capacity, and operational efficiency.
- Develop wider business knowledge and commercial understanding.
Automated Testing & Quality Assurance
- Develop, implement, and maintain Python based scripts to validate platform functionality and performance.
- Continuously review and enhance testing processes, introducing AI assisted validation to increase efficiency and coverage.
- Proactively identify opportunities for automation in regression testing, reporting, and operational workflows.
- Gain hands-on experience using AI tools to support automation and development tasks.
- Assist in experimenting with AI-assisted workflows and AI-assisted coding tools.
- Support the team in exploring new technologies and understanding their practical applications.
What You’ll Bring
- A STEM/ Computer Science degree is preferred but not essential
- Experience and interest in AI and automation, with a curiosity for how they can improve workflows.
- Familiarity with Python and an interest in automation and scripting.
- Understanding of basic web technologies (HTML, CSS, JavaScript).
- Exposure to APIs and an interest in how systems integrate.
- Analytical mindset with an interest in problem-solving and improving processes.
- Comfortable working with data (e.g. basic SQL or data analysis tools is beneficial).
- Strong communication skills and willingness to learn from others.
- A collaborative approach and enthusiasm for developing new technical skills.
BE BRAVE. BE YOU. BE NEXT.
Benefits
- 25% off most NEXT, MADE*, Lipsy*, Gap* and Victoria's Secret* products (*when purchased through NEXT)
- Company performance based bonus
- Sharesave scheme
- On-site Nursery available; OFSTED outstanding in all areas
- 10% off most partner brands & up to 15% off Branded Beauty
- Early VIP access to sale stock
- Access to fantastic discounts at our Staff Shops
- Restaurants with great food at amazing prices
- Access a digital GP and other free health and wellbeing services
- Free on-site parking
- Financial Wellbeing - Save, track and enhance your financial wellbeing
- Apprenticeship - Grow and develop on the job whilst gaining a qualification
- Direct to Work - Discount online and instore, collect your items the next day for free from your place of work or local store
- Support Networks - Access to Network Groups to empower and celebrate each other
- Wellhub - Discounted flexible monthly gym memberships, with apps, PT sessions and more
Conditions apply to all benefits. These benefits are discretionary and subject to change.
We aim to support all candidates during the application process and are happy to provide workplace adjustments when necessary. Should you need support with your application due to a disability or long-term condition, feel free to get in touch with us by email [email protected] (please include 'Workplace Adjustments' in the subject line), or call us on 0116 284 2486 and leave a voicemail.
What's Next?
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Team Overview
The Digital & Marketing team brings creativity, technology, and insight together. From bold campaigns and boundary-pushing design to product innovation, digital evolution, and vital data support, these teams shape seamless experiences and drive the business forward.
Our brands
You’ve probably heard of NEXT, but did you know about our portfolio? Every brand in our offering brings a distinct story, attitude and community. Spanning contemporary lifestyle brands, established high street names and timeless collections, together they showcase the vibrancy of today’s retail world.
