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Science

Chemistry Laboratory Technician Apprenticeship (Level 3, advanced)

AWE
Location
Gosport
Salary
£16,750 yearly, increasing to £24,500 in Year 2
Duration
24 months plus 3 months End Point Assessment
Level
Level 3 – Advanced
Qualification
Level 3
Start date
1st September 2027
Application deadline
8 November 2026
Vacancy reference
R31823
Minimum grades
5 GCSEs at Grade 4/C or above: English Language 4/C or above, Mathematics 4/C or above, Science 6/B or above (Combined Science or separate science subject)

Apprenticeships are open from age 16, once you have finished Year 11 (S4 in Scotland).

About the role

Based within Defence Radiation Protection Services (DRPS) at Alverstoke, you will join a team of scientists and technicians who help monitor radiation exposure and support safety across UK defence programmes. 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.

Requirements

Applicants must: Achieve a minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade 4/C or above, including: English Language 4/C or above, Mathematics 4/C or above, Science grade 6/B or above (Combined Science or a separate science subject). Applicants who are studying relevant science qualifications at college are encouraged to apply. Due to the security requirements associated with this apprenticeship, applicants must be British Nationals and be aged 18 or over by 31 August 2027.

Skills

Laboratory safetySample preparation and testingScientific equipment operationData recording and analysisFollowing procedures and protocolsProblem-solvingCommunicationTeamworkAttention to detailHealth and safety compliance

Required qualifications

Essential
GCSE · English Language · Grade 4/C
Essential
GCSE · Mathematics · Grade 4/C
Essential
GCSE · Science · Grade 6/B

Training & development

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 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.
Additional training
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.
Future prospects
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

A starting salary of £16,750 yearly, increasing to £24,500 in Year 2, with further annual salary increases throughout your apprenticeship, subject to satisfactory performance and achievement of apprenticeship milestones. Market leading contributory pension scheme. Generous paid holiday entitlement of 270 hours per year, inclusive of Bank Holidays, plus every other Friday off as part of AWE's flexible working pattern. Access to employee discounts portal - everyday savings on retail, hospitality and leisure. Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services.

Things to consider

Due to the nature of our work and security requirements, you should expect to work on-site during your apprenticeship and in your role after you complete it. Being on-site means you can learn directly from experienced technical specialists, access hands-on support, and build valuable connections across the business. You must be a British Citizen who has been resident in the UK for the past 5 years to apply for SC clearance and 10 years for DV. You will need to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role, which will be funded by AWE. 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. 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. Assessment Centres are scheduled for 19th January 2027.

About AWE

AWE is 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. We're delivering Astraea, the next warhead for the UK's nuclear deterrent and pushing the boundaries of nuclear science and technology. 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.
Contact email
EarlyCareers@awe.co.uk