Chemistry Laboratory Technician Apprenticeship (Level 3, advanced)
About AWE
We’rea 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 ourNATOallies.
Our work is critical.We’redelivering 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 – fromcounter-terrorismto 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’llfind more than just a job.You’llfind purpose, growth, and a community like no other. Whetheryou’rejust 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 somethingtruly unique.
Be extraordinary at AWE.
About the apprenticeship:
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.
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.
Opportunities when you complete your apprenticeship:
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.
ApprenticeshipStandard:
ST0248
About you:
You do not need previous laboratory experience to apply. We are looking for people who are enthusiastic, willing to learn and interested in building a career in science. You should be someone who:
Have a genuine interest in science and laboratory work
Are curious and enjoy learning new skills
Work carefully and pay attention to detail
Can follow instructions and procedures accurately
Have good communication and teamwork skills
Take a responsible approach to health and safety
Are organised and willing to learn
Enjoy practical, hands‑on activities
This role may appeal to you if you:
Enjoy science subjects, particularly chemistry or physics
Like understanding how things work and why things happen
Enjoy practical investigations, experiments and hands‑on learning
Are interested in working in a real laboratory environment
Like solving problems and making sense of results
Want to learn from experienced scientists and technicians
Want to start building a long‑term career in science
Entry 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.
The 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
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.
Location:
Alverstoke, Gosport, Hampshire. 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.
Start Date: 1st September 2027
Annual leave will not be granted from1st September until1st Octoberdue to mandatory inductions youare required tocomplete 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.
Apprenticeship Duration:
24 monthsplus3 months End Point Assessment.
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 theinitialselection process.All candidates must be willing and able to obtain andmaintainthe 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.
Contact us
If you have questions during the application process, please reach out to the Early Careers Team at EarlyCareers@awe.co.uk
Important things you need to know:
- You will need to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role. This will be funded by AWE. The nature of our work does mean you need to be a British Citizen who has been resident in the UK for the past 5 years in order to apply for SC clearance and 10 years for DV.
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. Any inclusion information you provide will be stored in accordance with GDPR and kept separate from your application form and CV, and the information will not be shared with anyone involved in interviewing or making hiring decisions.
Please note that you must be a British Citizen to apply for a role with us.
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