Laboratory apprenticeships
Do you want to work in research and development (R&D)? Or a manufacturing laboratory? Are you keen to gain a scientific qualification? Why not get paid while you learn on one of our laboratory apprenticeships in the UK?
Based at either, Ware (Herts), Stevenage (Herts), Maidenhead (Berks), Harlow (Essex), Weybridge (Surrey), Ulverston (Cumbria), Barnard Castle (Durham), Irvine (Scotland) or Montrose (Scotland).
What will the apprenticeship offer me?
Our apprenticeships offer the chance to study towards nationally recognised qualifications while gaining valuable, paid work experience. Apprentices work towards a minimum level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship. In some cases, the opportunity to progress to a Level 5 qualification may be offered.
What will the programme be like?
Over the two year programme, you’ll work towards a Level 3 BTEC certificate, attending a local college for a day a week. Then, depending on which apprenticeship you have chosen you’ll complete a series of job rotations to give you a rounded set of practical skills. In some cases this may mean working out of hours or on shift which will attract additional payment.
What positions are on offer?
We offer several types of laboratory apprenticeship including microbiology, biopharm technology, process chemistry, animal technology and analytical chemistry.
Your apprenticeship may cover some of the following;
• how to operate bespoke equipment to test our products and raw materials
• how to operate data capture systems, run reports and write conclusions
• animal husbandry and the care of animals
• the different parts of the process each drug or product follows from conception to full scale product manufacture.
• At the Ulverston site, A-levels (or equivalent) are required. Science subjects are preferred.
We’ll also encourage you to challenge current working practices and offer ideas for process improvement.
Where can I do my apprenticeship?
Laboratory analyst apprenticeships are available at the following UK sites:
- Ware, Herts
- Stevenage, Herts
- Maidenhead, Berks
- Harlow, Essex
- Weybridge, Surrey
- Barnard Castle, Durham
- Ulverston, Cumbria
- Montrose, Scotland
- Irvine, Scotland
What will I learn?
We’re big on personal and professional development. So you'll learn a huge amount while taking on new challenges, enhancing your technical and functional expertise and improving your business knowledge. You'll also gain invaluable communication, planning, organising, problem-solving and team-working skills.
Do I have the skills?
We’re looking for practical individuals interested in the science behind our products. We really value those who show enthusiasm, desire and – most of all – a willingness to learn and extend their skills.
To become one of our laboratory analyst apprentices, you’ll need:
- a minimum of five GCSEs or equivalent at grade C or above (including maths and English)
- for some apprenticeships an A-level, A/S level or equivalent in chemistry, biology or an associated science is preferred. (Please state your predicted grade in your application if you have yet to receive your result)
- an enquiring mind
- enthusiasm and willingness to learn
- a passion for science
When can I start?
Our laboratory analyst and process chemistry apprenticeship schemes start in September 2013.
How can I apply?
Complete the online application form and APPLY NOW for roles based at Ware (Herts), Harlow (Essex), Stevenage (Herts), Maidenhead (Berks), Ulverston (Cumbria) or Irvine and Montrose in Scotland.
Watch this space for roles which will soon be open for application at Weybridge (Surrey) and Barnard Castle (Co Durham). However, in the meantime, if you would like to register your interest - please complete the online "register interest" form now and we will contact you in due course:


