Laboratory Manager Apprentice (Level 5) - BST Supplies
Carry out materials testing, including tensile and impact testing, on production materials where required.
Ensure all testing activities follow company quality procedures and relevant ASTM and BS standards.
Make sure all materials used for testing are correctly identified and fully traceable using batch or BST reference numbers.
Read and interpret technical specifications and accurately record test results in line with customer and international material standards.
Conduct mechanical, physical, and visual inspections of raw materials and components to confirm they meet required specifications.
Prepare materials and components for metallurgical examination where required.
Ensure laboratory testing equipment is properly maintained, calibrated, and safe to use.
Record testing information using company systems and produce reports, including logging non-conformances (NCRs).
Work with colleagues across departments to resolve testing queries and confirm materials meet product requirements.
Maintain high standards of quality, safety, and housekeeping within the laboratory and testing areas.
Training:
Over 24 months, you’ll spend a minimum of 6 hours of your working week completing ‘off-the-job’ training. This may include theory-based learning such as virtual workshops and online modules, alongside practical development activities like mentoring, leadership projects, process improvement work, and time dedicated to completing assignments. Together, these activities will contribute towards achieving your Level 5 Laboratory Manager apprenticeship.
You’ll be supported throughout your journey by an expert tutor from Tiro, as well as an experienced workplace mentor at BST Supplies. Together, they will help you develop the technical knowledge, leadership capability, and operational skills needed to effectively manage laboratory environments, lead teams, and drive improvements in safety, compliance, and performance.
Training Outcome:
When you join BST Supplies, the possibilities for your success are limitless. As a successful applicant, you have the potential to secure a full-time position within the company at the conclusion of your apprenticeship.
Through practical, on-the-job training, you will develop the leadership, technical, and operational skills needed to manage modern laboratories. You’ll build expertise in risk management, regulatory compliance, and laboratory operations while gaining the confidence to lead investigations, improve processes, and oversee safe and efficient lab environments. This apprenticeship supports your progression into leadership roles within scientific organisations while strengthening your ability to manage people, systems, and innovation.
This programme opens up a range of career opportunities across industries including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, environmental science, healthcare, manufacturing, and research organisations. As laboratories become increasingly complex and regulated, skilled laboratory managers are in high demand to ensure compliance, drive innovation, and lead high-performing scientific teams.
The apprenticeship can also support further professional development and recognition within the scientific sector. Learners may choose to work towards professional registration such as Registered Scientist (RSci) or Chartered Scientist (CSci), helping to strengthen their professional standing and open doors to more senior leadership roles within laboratory and scientific management.
Employer Description:
BST are based in Wolverhampton - UK where our 'Bespoke' components are manufactured on site, our capacity includes hot forging, Heat Treatment, Mechanical Testing, NDT Testing, CNC Machining and PTFE Plating to a wide range of threaded and non threaded components.
Working Hours :
Monday - Thursday 8.00am-4.30pm and Friday 8.00am-4.00pm.
Skills:
Communication skills,Attention to detail,Organisation skills,Problem solving skills,Analytical skills,Team working,Initiative,Patience