Laboratory Technician Apprentice

Laboratory Technician Apprentice

Join to apply for the Laboratory Technician Apprentice role at UKRI India

• Contract Type:
  Fixed-Term, 28 months
• Hours:
  
  Full-time, 37 hours
• Salary: £19,514 per annum (rising annually)
• Location:
  
  Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell Campus, Didcot, OX11 0QX
• Closing Date:
  Sunday, 2nd February 2026
• Interview Date:
  Feb 2026 / Mar 2026
• Start Date:
  
  September 2026

As a Level 3 laboratory apprentice, you will be joining a team dedicated to the meticulous analysis and control of chemical contamination in support of space science missions. The laboratory plays a vital role in maintaining the cleanliness and integrity of space hardware and cleanroom operations. You will be actively involved in the development of a new laboratory, contributing to method development, validation, and the operation of current molecular organic contamination measurement systems.

This is a hands‑on environment where precision, safety, and scientific curiosity are essential—your journey here will be both challenging and rewarding as you help advance the success of UK and international space programmes.

We’re looking for enthusiastic and motivated individuals ready to develop their skills through formal training and hands‑on experience. As an apprentice, you’ll gain real‑world experience, build technical and professional skills, and contribute to cutting‑edge research and innovation in a dynamic, supportive environment.

You’ll be fully supported throughout the programme with regular check‑ins from a dedicated Apprenticeship Coordinator, structured training, practical experience, and mentorship from industry professionals. Plus, you’ll have access to workshops, a peer network, and career development support, helping you feel confident and prepared for new challenges.

• Level 3 Laboratory Technician
• BTEC Level 3 Applied Science with additional training

• How to work safely and effectively in a laboratory environment.
• The importance of following quality procedures and maintaining compliance with industry regulations.
• Regulatory requirements governing laboratory operations.
• Technical skills essential for performing laboratory tasks with accuracy and precision.
• Methods for producing, analysing, and interpreting data, including the application of statistical techniques.
• Effective communication of scientific information in a clear and professional manner.
• How to apply
  
  appropriate scientific methods to identify problems and develop practical solutions.

• Preparing samples using solvents within a laboratory environment.
• Deploying and retrieving samples used for monitoring clean‑room operations, thermal vacuum testing and project contamination control.
• Analysing samples, interpreting data and compiling reports.
• Supporting contamination investigations.
• Supporting method development activities [ECSS‑Q‑ST‑70‑05C].
• Supporting method verification/validation.

• GCSEs in Maths, English and Science (Grade 4/C or above).
• An awareness of basic health and safety.
• Basic understanding of laboratory safety and willingness to learn COSHH regulations.
• Enthusiastic and motivated to learn, both in the workplace and through formal training.
• Has a basic understanding of a clean room and a willingness to learn more.
• Enjoys following routine procedures and understands their importance.
• Willingness to learn analytical techniques e.g., FTIR transmission spectroscopy.
• Interest in working in controlled environments (clean rooms).
• Attention to detail and commitment to precision.
• Takes ownership of mistakes, learning from them to prevent issues from impacting customers.
• Enthusiasm for science and space‑related research.
• Ability to maintain accurate laboratory records.

• To complete the apprenticeship, you will need to evidence passes at 9‑4 or A*‑C in GCSE (or equivalent) Maths and English. For those sitting their GCSEs in Summer 2026, we would need evidence of your predicted grades.
• There is a set residency eligibility criteria that must be met by the applicant. To check your eligibility please .
• The training provider…