WWF - Junior AI Developer

About the company

Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing how we work, solve problems and develop new ideas. At WWF-UK, we're exploring how we can use AI and automation responsibly to help us work more effectively and make a greater difference for our planet.

Your tasks

In this role, you'll help turn ideas into practical solutions, exploring how technology can support colleagues across WWF-UK and make everyday tasks and processes simpler and more effective.

You'll work closely with our AI & Automation Lead and colleagues across our Technology team and wider organisation. Together, you'll explore opportunities, develop and test new tools, and learn how to take an idea from an initial concept through to a working prototype or pilot.

You'll gain hands-on experience using AI and automation technologies, including tools such as Microsoft Copilot, Power Platform and Azure AI services, while learning how to develop solutions that are secure, accessible and responsible.

During your placement, you'll have the opportunity to

• Explore opportunities for AI. Work with colleagues across WWF-UK to understand challenges and identify where AI or automation could make a positive difference.
• Turn ideas into practical solutions. Help translate business needs into clear requirements and support the development of prototypes and pilot projects.
• Build and experiment with technology. Use approved tools, such as Microsoft Copilot, Power Platform and Azure AI services, to develop and improve AI and automation solutions.
• Test and improve your work. Work with colleagues to test solutions, gather feedback, identify issues and make improvements.
• Use AI responsibly. Learn how to consider data protection, security, accessibility, potential bias and other risks when developing and testing solutions, with guidance from experienced colleagues.
• Create clear guidance. Help document how solutions work, how they've been tested and how colleagues can use them.
• Share what you've learned. Contribute ideas, practical guidance and reusable resources to help WWF-UK build its knowledge and confidence in using AI.

Requirements

We're looking for someone who's curious about AI and emerging technology, enjoys solving problems and wants to explore how technology can make a positive difference.

You don't need to have worked professionally as an AI developer. What's important is that you've started building your technical knowledge, enjoy learning and are interested in putting your skills into practice.

We'd love to hear from you if you

• Have an interest in AI, automation, software development or using technology to solve problems.
• Have some experience of coding, developing software, working with data or creating automated solutions, whether through study, personal projects or other activities.
• Have a basic understanding of software development, working with data, testing and how changes to code can be tracked.
• Enjoy exploring problems, trying different approaches and finding practical solutions.
• Take a thoughtful approach to checking information, spotting potential errors and understanding the limitations of AI tools.
• Can communicate ideas clearly and are interested in helping others understand technology.
• Are organised, pay attention to detail and are willing to ask questions or seek support when needed.
• Enjoy working with others, are open to feedback and willing to develop new skills.
• Value different perspectives and want to contribute to a welcoming, inclusive workplace.

You may have developed your knowledge through a degree, apprenticeship, online learning, volunteering, personal projects, work experience or other routes. We're interested in what you can do and your willingness to learn, not just how you've developed your skills.

What we offer

It's an opportunity to develop your technical and professional skills, build your confidence and explore how emerging technology can support WWF-UK's mission to bring our world back to life.

Skills you'll build This placement is designed to give you practical experience and opportunities to develop your technical and professional skills.

You'll have the chance to develop

• AI and automation development: Using approved tools and technologies to build, test and improve practical solutions.
• Software development skills: Building your understanding of development processes, testing, documentation and maintaining solutions.
• Problem-solving and analysis: Breaking down challenges, exploring different approaches and identifying effective solutions.
• Responsible AI: Understanding how to recognise potential risks, check AI-generated information and consider security, data protection, accessibility and fairness.
• Working with others: Collaborating with technical and non-technical colleagues, understanding their needs and explaining ideas clearly.
• Planning and organisation: Managing tasks, responding to feedback and contributing to projects from initial ideas through to testing and evaluation.

You'll also build a portfolio of work that demonstrates the skills and experience you've gained during your placement.

Support along the way As part of Roots @ WWF-UK, you'll have the opportunity to learn and grow alongside other early careers colleagues.

You'll receive support from your line manager and a dedicated buddy, alongside structured learning and development opportunities throughout your 12-month placement.

The programme is designed to help you build practical experience, develop your confidence and explore your future career opportunities.

Other

Practical details *Location: Living Planet Centre, Woking, Surrey Contract: 12-month fixed-term placement Salary: £28,119 Hours: 35 hours per week Working arrangements:** Minimum 40% in person collaboration per month