Quality Control Laboratory Apprentice

You will support the Quality Control team in ensuring that raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products meet established quality standards. You will develop practical laboratory skills while undertaking a recognised apprenticeship programme, gaining experience in analytical testing, laboratory operations, and quality systems.

What you'll do

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist with routine laboratory testing of raw materials, intermediates, and finished products.
• Prepare samples, reagents, standards, and laboratory equipment for analysis.
• Perform analytical testing under supervision using approved methods and procedures.
• Accurately record results in laboratory log sheets, electronic systems and quality databases.
• Maintain laboratory equipment through routine cleaning, calibration, and performance checks.
• Follow all health, safety, and environmental requirements within the laboratory.
• Assist with stock control of laboratory consumables and reagents.
• Participate in continuous improvement activities aimed at enhancing laboratory efficiency and effectiveness.
• Complete all apprenticeship coursework and workplace training requirements.

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.

After the apprenticeship

Potential progression into a full-time technician role, with longer-term development along a technical career pathway aligned to Hexcel's grading structure and business needs.

Skills

• Communication skills
• IT skills
• Attention to detail
• Organisation skills
• Customer care skills
• Problem solving skills
• Presentation skills
• Administrative skills
• Number skills
• Analytical skills
• Logical
• Team working
• Creative
• Initiative
• Non judgemental

Qualifications

• Essential: GCSE, x 5 including Maths, English and Science (grade C/4 or above)
• Desired: A Level, Science or equivalent (grade C or above)

Things to consider

• You must have been a UK resident for a minimum of 3 years to be eligible for this position.
• If you already hold a BSc or MSc in a closely related field, you will be ineligible for apprenticeship funding.
• We are manufacturing site on the outskirts of a village so the applicant must be able to drive.
• Must be 18 years or older due to the nature of the work being carried out.
• To give yourself the best chance, please ensure your application is genuine and written in your own words. Applications created solely with AI tools may not be accepted.

Benefits

• Option to join private medical
• Enhanced pension scheme
• £16 meal subsidy for the onsite restaurant each month
• We have flexi policy and hybrid working where possible

About the employer

From Roger Steele's post-war laboratory in the basement of a suburban home to the production of the lunar struts of the Apollo 11 lunar landing module, Hexcel has been synonymous with innovation throughout its history. Hexcel was ready when the defence aerospace industry needed strong lightweight materials following World War II, and our company remains a leader in delivering innovative advanced composite solutions to our customers.

Apprenticeship details

• Course: Laboratory technician (level 3), Health and science
• Apprenticeship level: Advanced (level 3)
• Training provider: CSR SCIENTIFIC TRAINING LIMITED
• Expected duration: 2 Years
• Hours: 37.5 hours a week. Working week: 8:30am - 4.45pm, Monday to Friday.
• Start date: 2 November 2026
• Positions available: 1
• Wage: £26,520 a year