Do you strive to excel and achieve success in every challenge you undertake? Are you looking for an opportunity to accelerate your career growth? If so, the Cerium Networks Apprentice Program could be an ideal match for you. Cerium Networks is a leading technology solutions integrator and Managed Services Provider with a long-standing commitment to valuing education and offering educational opportunities at all levels, ensuring its leadership in the technology sector. We are looking for motivated Apprentice Developers to join our team and embark on a journey towards becoming a skilled DevOps professional in the world of AI. As an apprentice, you'll receive a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, all while being compensated. This program is designed to fast-track your entry into various technology-related roles (e.g. DevOps Engineer, Data Scientist, AI Specialist, or IT) within Cerium Networks, bypassing the typical 3-5+ years of entry-level positions and experience required to advance in the tech industry. The available positions are limited and may not suit everyone, but if you are motivated to succeed in this exciting field of technology, don’t let this opportunity slip away.

The Apprenticeship Program will begin January 2025. We will begin interviewing in November. Start date for selected candidates is flexible, with starting as soon as position is offered until January 6th.

The apprenticeship is a blend of classroom and on the job training in the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Information Technology (IT), and DevOps. As an Apprentice Developer on the DevOps/AI track, you will have the unique opportunity to work closely with our experienced Developers, IT consultants, and customers. This role is designed to provide hands-on experience and mentorship, helping you develop the skills necessary to excel in a DevOps role. You will be involved in various stages of the software development lifecycle, with a heavy focus on AI, automation, continuous integration, and continuous delivery. This role is an in-office position with occasional work-from-home availability when approved by the DevOps/AI Services Manager. 

This role is an in-office position with occasional work-from-home availability when approved by the DevOps/AI Services Manager.
 

Apprentice Program Education (50%):

• Education Requirement - Pass all class coursework/tests with 85% or better.
• Certifications - Mixture of foundation-level training and certifications from CompTIA, Microsoft, and others covering a variety of IT, DevOps, and AI related content. Training provided with a combination of instructor-led training, labs and simulation training, and self-study time.
• Classes – 
  • Toastmasters’ communication soft-skills training.
  • Business writing course work.
  • Networking Fundamentals.
  • Cloud, Linux, DevOps, and AI Fundamentals
  • Microsoft Fundamentals.
  • Unified Communications and Contact Center.
  • Data Science and Analytics Fundamentals
  • Datacenter, Virtualization, and Cloud Infrastructure.
  • Microsoft Azure & M365 Fundamentals
  • Network Security, Data Security, and Data Governance.
  • Scripting, Automation, and AI Training and Labs.
  • DevOps, IT Engineering, Support, and Design best practices and methodologies.
  • Business and Technical Presentations.
  • Time Duration: Approximately 9-12  Months

 DevOps and Artificial Intelligence Department (30% +/-):

• Projects for IT/Engineering process and deployment automation.
• Upgrading existing automation and scripts to programming best practices and current versions.
• Internal custom AI integrations and proof-of-concepts using tools like Microsoft Copilot Studio, Azure AI Studio, IBM WatsonX, and more.
• KPIs, Reporting, and Analytics (PowerBI and similar) on existing datasets such as Microsoft Fabric and Azure Data Warehouse.
• Follow standard operating procedures and policies and update documentation and knowledge base as required.
• Maintain confidentiality with the business information being processed, stored, or accessed by end-users on internal systems.

IT, Engineering, and DevOps Department Rotations and Projects (20% +/-) – based on customer project needs:

• Complete rotations through IT, Engineering, and DevOps departments as needed for mentoring and training with experienced engineering resources.
• Assist Engineering Teams with customer-facing projects. This includes, but is not limited to, AI proof-of-concepts, automation scripting, and IT solution deployments. This may require long-distance travel and remote lodging.

  Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, informatics, data science, cybersecurity, management information systems, or related field or associate’s degree in information technology or computer science/engineering, and two years related work experience.
• Prior work experience or internship(s) preferred. 
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or Power BI.
• Proficiency of one programming language, version control systems, and familiarity with cloud platforms; Python, GitHub, and Azure/AWS preferred.
• Usage and knowledge of AI software, (e.g. Copilot, Gemini, WatsonX, ChatGPT) preferred
• Passion for DevOps and a keen interest in DevOps practices.
• Strong problem-solving skills
• Time Management skills
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• Ability to work in fast-paced and challenging environment

Compensation

• $26.00-$30.00 per hour
• Actual compensation will vary and may be above or below the range based on various factors including but not limited to location,  experience, and performance.
• Upon successfully completing the program and securing a new position, there will be a substantial adjustment to your compensation.

Benefits

• Medical Insurance with a PPO and HDHP plan option
• Dental and Vision Insurance
• Medical, Dental and Vision coverage go into effect the first of the month following start date
• 401(k) eligible on the 1st day of employment
• Eligible for 401(k) employer match after 12-months of service. Match is 100% on first 3% and 50% on next 2%. (100% vested)
• Voluntary benefit options include group term life, AD&D, short term disability, long term disability
• Paid time off annually: 15 days of PTO, 9 paid holidays, 3 days bereavement, and jury duty
• Wellness program that includes up to $500 in cash awards and HSA employer contributions
• Employee Assistance Program