Composites Technician Apprentice (Level 3)

Role responsibilities will include: 

Prepare composite materials including GRP and FRP laminates, resins, and fibreglass in line with production schedules and quality specifications Operate hand lay-up and spray-up moulding processes under the supervision of senior technicians, developing proficiency in a range of composite manufacturing techniques Assist in the fabrication, trimming, and finishing of composite components such as tanks, bunds, enclosures, anti-slip systems, and architectural mouldings Support site installation activities including the application of protective linings and coatings to industrial structures such as storage tanks, bund walls, and cooling towers Carry out surface preparation tasks including abrasive blasting and cleaning of substrates prior to lining or coating application, following COSHH and PPE requirements at all times Conduct quality checks on finished components, identifying and reporting defects or non-conformances to the Production Manager Maintain a clean, safe, and organised workshop environment, adhering to all health & safety protocols, site-specific safety procedures, and SGI Composites’ company standards Complete all apprenticeship off-the-job learning requirements and portfolio evidence as required by the apprenticeship standard Support the team across multiple product lines including spill containment, enclosures, furniture and planters, and anti-slip grating as business needs require Participate in continuous improvement activities and contribute ideas to enhance production quality and efficiency

Training:
The apprentice will be working towards the Level 3 Composites Technician Apprenticeship Standard This is a 3 year apprenticeship with college attendance required one day per week All college attendance will be at Colchester Institute at our Colchester Campus one day per week

Training Outcome:

SGI Composites has a strong track record of developing apprentices into long-term team members. Several current senior staff – including the Operations Manager, Production Manager, and Technical Specialist – started their careers as trainees with the business.

On successful completion of the Level 3 Composite Technician Apprenticeship, opportunities may include:

Progression to a permanent Composite Technician role Specialist development in site installation, laminates, or coatings Pathway toward supervisory or senior technical roles Further qualifications in composites or engineering disciplines

Employer Description:

SGI Composites (formerly Sui Generis) is a UK-leading manufacturer of high-performance GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) and FRP (Fibre Reinforced Polymer) composite solutions, based in Colchester, Essex. Established in 1996, the business has grown from a specialist fibreglass mouldings company into a diverse composite solutions provider recognised internationally for its quality and expertise.

The company specialises in bespoke component manufacturing, protective linings and coatings, anti-slip systems, spill containment, enclosures, and composite furniture and planters – serving clients across industrial, construction, transport, rail, and architectural sectors.

SGI Composites is part of The Milbank Group and holds a range of accreditations including Achilles UVDB Silver+, RISQS, SafeContractor, and Constructionline Gold. The business is proud to be a British manufacturer with a long-standing reputation for technical excellence, personal service, and reliable delivery.

With long staff retention and a culture of growing talent from within, SGI Composites offers a genuinely supportive environment for apprentices to build a lasting career in composites manufacturing.

Working Hours :
Monday to Friday, 7:45am - 5:00pm, with a 15-minute tea break and 30 minutes unpaid lunch break. Additional short breaks in line with Working Time Regulations 1998.

Skills:
Communication skills,Attention to detail,Organisation skills,Problem solving skills,Administrative skills,Analytical skills,Logical,Team working,Creative,Initiative,Patience,Physical fitness