Laboratory Technician Apprentice

As part of this apprenticeship, your responsibilities may evolve in line with the programme's requirements. The duties outlined below highlight the general scope of the role but are not exhaustive:

Provide technical support to academic staff and students within the physics department under supervision Develop and uphold an understanding of health & safety regulations as guided by technical supervisors Gain practical knowledge of various laboratory techniques and procedures Assist in preparing materials and equipment for use by staff and students Support practical teaching sessions as directed by senior technicians, including helping operate and demonstrate equipment Conduct routine maintenance of equipment in accordance with manufacturer guidelines under supervisory direction Contribute to maintaining a safe, clean, and organised working environment in specialist laboratory areas Help monitor and manage stock levels of consumables Stay informed about health & safety procedures relevant to the assigned areas

This apprenticeship offers practical, hands-on experience designed to develop a wide range of valuable skills, including teamwork, communication, organisation, and problem-solving. You will gain technical expertise in laboratory techniques, equipment maintenance and the safe handling of materials. Working under the guidance of experienced technicians, you will also learn to prepare and set up equipment, conduct maintenance, handle data accurately and address issues with scientific instruments.

Additionally, you will operate safely in a laboratory environment, using appropriate protective equipment, assessing risks and following established protocols. Your role will include contributing to teaching and research activities, learning to demonstrate scientific techniques, and managing health and safety during practical sessions.

This apprenticeship provides an excellent foundation to build technical and professional expertise in a supportive, real-world environment.

Training:

You will undertake a Level 3 Laboratory Technician Apprenticeship with an Ofsted rated 'Outstanding' training provider, CSR Scientific Training, which will include: 

Fully recognised apprenticeship qualification - Level 3 Laboratory Technician On-the-job competency training Theoretical knowledge - BTEC Level 3 Applied Science (if required)

The majority of your learning will be completed online once a week with some face-to-face practical sessions/exams in Birmingham (if BTEC is included).

Upon successful completion, apprentices can apply for professional registration as a Registered Science Technician, RSciTech, with either the Institute of Physics, Royal Society of Chemistry or Royal Society of Biology.

Training Outcome:

Upon successful completion, there is the potential opportunity to stay within the team as a technician.

Employer Description:
Northumbria University is a research-intensive University that unlocks potential for all, changing lives regionally, nationally and internationally. Named UK University of the Year 2022 by Times Higher Education and Modern University of the Year 2025 by The Times and The Sunday Times, it is based in Newcastle upon Tyne, with an additional campus in London. Originating from Rutherford College (founded in 1880), Northumbria is ranked in the UK’s top 25 for research power and graduate employment. The university works with leading employers like Nike, IBM, and the NHS, and is a top UK institution for graduate start-ups. Northumbria attracts students from 137 countries and collaborates globally with higher education institutions.

Working Hours :
Monday to Thursday 09:00 - 17:00 and Friday 09:00 – 16:30.

Skills:
Communication skills,IT skills,Attention to detail,Organisation skills,Customer care skills,Problem solving skills,Administrative skills,Analytical skills,Logical,Team working,Initiative