Laboratory Technician Chemistry Apprenticeship
Apprenticeships are open from age 16, once you have finished Year 11 (S4 in Scotland).
About the role
You will work in a unique scientific environment, helping with practical laboratory work that supports people, the environment and national security.
This apprenticeship combines practical, hands-on laboratory experience with academic study at college, providing you with the technical knowledge, practical skills and professional behaviours needed to build a successful career in science.
Throughout the programme, you will work alongside experienced scientists and technicians. You will learn how laboratories operate, how samples are prepared and tested, and how results are recorded and reported. You will also learn why accuracy, safety and following procedures are so important in a scientific workplace.
During your apprenticeship, you will learn how to:
- Work safely in a laboratory and understand how to protect yourself, others and the environment
- Handle, store and dispose of laboratory materials safely
- Follow good laboratory practice and understand why quality checks matter
- Prepare and process samples ready for testing
- Carry out scientific tests and understand what the results mean
- Use, check and look after laboratory equipment
- Record results clearly, look for patterns and report your findings
- Work carefully, accurately and follow step-by-step procedures
- Solve problems and suggest ways to improve how work is done
- Communicate clearly and work well with other people
You will also take part in activities that help you develop confidence and workplace skills, such as team-building sessions, professional skills workshops and opportunities to meet other people starting their careers.
Working week
9 day fortnight. 33 hrs on the short week, 8hrs 15 mins per day. 41 hrs on the long week, 8hrs 15 mins per day Monday to Thursday and Fridays 8hrs. Please note hours may alter due to your offsite training establishment training times.
Skills
Required qualifications
Training & development
Please note this is a 24 month apprenticeship followed by the End Point Assessment.
Please note that the training provider for this apprenticeship will be an external organisation and is yet to be confirmed. We will share details once they are finalised. Training may be delivered through either day release or block release, depending on the provider and apprenticeship programme
Due to the security requirements associated with this apprenticeship, applicants must be British Nationals and be aged 18 or over by 31st August 2027.
After successfully completing your apprenticeship, you would move into a laboratory technician role within DRPS at Alverstoke, supporting a range of scientific programmes and laboratory activities.
Company benefits
Access to employee discounts portal - everyday savings on retail, hospitality and leisure. Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services. Alongside these benefits, you will learn from experienced specialists in their fields while contributing to work that supports national nuclear security, threat reduction and counter-terrorism.
Things to consider
Due to the security requirements associated with this apprenticeship, applicants must be British Nationals and be aged 18 or over by 31st August 2027.
Start Date: 1st September 2027
Annual leave will not be granted from 1st September until 1st October due to mandatory inductions you are required to complete as part of your apprenticeship. Any leave approved after this point will depend on the training provider requirements for your apprenticeship and must be agreed in advance.
These roles are governed by Health and Safety at Work Regulations and require all candidates to have an Occupational Health pre-employment medical held at AWE which follows the initial selection process. All candidates must be willing and able to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role and be willing and able to work in designated areas.
Our ambition is to create workplaces where we recognise and celebrate differences, encourage diverse contributions and our employees feel able to be themselves at work. We strive to create a genuine culture of openness and inclusion and encourage diverse applicants.
If you choose to share information on your application form about support needs, learning differences, disabilities, health conditions or adjustments, we may contact you to understand how we can support you through the recruitment process. This information will only be used for this purpose and will be handled in line with GDPR.
About AWE PLC
We’re a team of remarkable people, united by one extraordinary mission: keeping the UK safe and secure. The UK’s independent nuclear deterrent has existed for 75 years to deter the most extreme threats to our national security and way of life, helping to guarantee our safety, and that of our NATO allies.
Our work is critical. We’re delivering Astraea, the next warhead for the UK’s nuclear deterrent and pushing the boundaries of nuclear science and technology. But that’s just part of the story.
We support the UK government in a range of vital areas – from counter-terrorism to global nuclear test monitoring to building a world-class community of experts in nuclear science. This is work that protects lives and strengthens national security.
At AWE, you’ll find more than just a job. You’ll find purpose, growth, and a community like no other. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your career to the next level, this is your chance to learn from the best, develop your skills, and be part of something truly unique.
Be extraordinary at AWE.