Chemistry Laboratory Technician Apprenticeship (Level 3, advanced)

If you’d like to be considered for this opportunity we encourage you to apply promptly to avoid disappointment as if applications are high the role will close before the closing date given.

Chemistry Laboratory Technician Apprenticeship (Level 3, advanced) 

About AWE 

We’re a team of remarkable people, united by one extraordinary mission: keeping the UK safe and secure. The UK’s independent nuclear deterrent has existed for 75 years to deter the most extreme threats to our national security and way of life, helping to guarantee our safety, and that of our NATO allies.     

Our work is critical. We’re delivering Astraea, the next warhead for the UK’s nuclear deterrent and pushing the boundaries of nuclear science and technology. But that’s just part of the story.    

We support the UK government in a range of vital areas – from counter-terrorism to global nuclear test monitoring to building a world-class community of experts in nuclear science. This is work that protects lives and strengthens national security.   

At AWE, you’ll find more than just a job. You’ll find purpose, growth, and a community like no other. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your career to the next level, this is your chance to learn from the best, develop your skills, and be part of something truly unique.   

Be extraordinary at AWE.  

About the apprenticeship:

Based within Defence Radiation Protection Services (DRPS) at Alverstoke, you will join a team of scientists and technicians who help monitor radiation exposure and support safety across UK defence programmes. You will work in a unique scientific environment, helping with practical laboratory work that supports people, the environment and national security. 

This apprenticeship combines practical, hands-on laboratory experience with academic study at college, providing you with the technical knowledge, practical skills and professional behaviours needed to build a successful career in science. 

Throughout the programme, you will work alongside experienced scientists and technicians. You will learn how laboratories operate, how samples are prepared and tested, and how results are recorded and reported. You will also learn why accuracy, safety and following procedures are so important in a scientific workplace. 

During your apprenticeship, you will learn how to: 

• Work safely in a laboratory and understand how to protect yourself, others and the environment 

• Handle, store and dispose of laboratory materials safely 

• Follow good laboratory practice and understand why quality checks matter 

• Prepare and process samples ready for testing 

• Carry out scientific tests and understand what the results mean 

• Use, check and look after laboratory equipment 

• Record results clearly, look for patterns and report your findings 

• Work carefully, accurately and follow step-by-step procedures 

• Solve problems and suggest ways to improve how work is done 

• Communicate clearly and work well with other people 

You will also take part in activities that help you develop confidence and workplace skills, such as team-building sessions, professional skills workshops and opportunities to meet other people starting their careers. 

Opportunities when you complete your apprenticeship: 

After successfully completing your apprenticeship, you would move into a laboratory technician role within DRPS at Alverstoke, supporting a range of scientific programmes and laboratory activities. 

Apprenticeship Standard: 

ST0248  

About you: 

You do not need previous laboratory experience to apply. We are looking for people who are enthusiastic, willing to learn and interested in building a career in science. You should be someone who: 

• Have a genuine interest in science and laboratory work 

• Are curious and enjoy learning new skills 

• Work carefully and pay attention to detail 

• Can follow instructions and procedures accurately 

• Have good communication and teamwork skills 

• Take a responsible approach to health and safety 

• Are organised and willing to learn 

• Enjoy practical, hands-on activities 

This role may appeal to you if you: 

• Enjoy science subjects, particularly chemistry or physics 

• Like understanding how things work and why things happen 

• Enjoy practical investigations, experiments and hands-on learning 

• Are interested in working in a real laboratory environment 

• Like solving problems and making sense of results 

• Want to learn from experienced scientists and technicians 

• Want to start building a long-term career in science 

Entry Requirements 

Applicants must: 

Achieve a minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade 4/C or above, including:  

• English Language 4/C or above 

• Mathematics 4/C or above 

• Science grade 6/B or above (Combined Science or a separate science subject) 

• Applicants who are studying relevant science qualifications at college are encouraged to apply. 

Due to the security requirements associated with this apprenticeship, applicants must be British Nationals and be aged 18 or over by 31 August 2027. 

The Benefits:  

• A starting salary of £16,750 yearly, increasing to £24,500 in Year 2, with further annual salary increases throughout your apprenticeship, subject to satisfactory performance and achievement of apprenticeship milestones 

• Market leading contributory pension scheme 

• Generous paid holiday entitlement of 270 hours per year, inclusive of Bank Holidays, plus every other Friday off as part of AWE’s flexible working pattern 

• Access to employee discounts portal - everyday savings on retail, hospitality and leisure 

• Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services 

Alongside these benefits, you will learn from experienced specialists in their fields while contributing to work that supports national nuclear security, threat reduction and counter-terrorism. 

Location:   

Alverstoke, Gosport, Hampshire.  Due to the nature of our work and security requirements, you should expect to work on-site during your apprenticeship and in your role after you complete it. Being on-site means you can learn directly from experienced technical specialists, access hands-on support, and build valuable connections across the business. 

Start Date: 1st September 2027 

Annual leave will not be granted from 1st September until 1st October due to mandatory inductions you are required to complete as part of your apprenticeship.  Any leave approved after this point will depend on the training provider requirements for your apprenticeship and must be agreed in advance.   

Apprenticeship Duration:   

24 months plus 3 months End Point Assessment.  

Recruitment Process   

This vacancy will close on 8th November 2026, but we review applications as they come in—so we strongly encourage you to apply early.  

We want you to shine in your application process which is designed to be fair and transparent. So we've kept it simple with a three step process.   

• Online application: Apply for one apprenticeship; take your time to explore the options and choose the one that best matches your interests and goals.  

• Online test: If successful, you will be invited to complete our online assessment stage. These include online testing against numerical, verbal, logical and cognitive reasoning tests. Don't be intimidated: practice assessments will be available so you will be fully equipped with the knowledge of what to expect.   

• Assessment Centre: Those successful at testing will be invited to an assessment centre at Alverstoke. The Assessment Centres are scheduled for 19th January 2027.  Please note that these dates may be subject to change, but rest assured, we’ll keep all applicants informed throughout the process.  

These roles are governed by Health and Safety at Work Regulations and require all candidates to have an Occupational Health pre-employment medical held at AWE which follows the initial selection process. All candidates must be willing and able to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role and be willing and able to work in designated areas.   

Our ambition is to create workplaces where we recognise and celebrate differences, encourage diverse contributions and our employees feel able to be themselves at work. We strive to create a genuine culture of openness and inclusion and encourage diverse applicants.    

If you choose to share information on your application form about support needs, learning differences, disabilities, health conditions or adjustments, we may contact you to understand how we can support you through the recruitment process. This information will only be used for this purpose and will be handled in line with GDPR. 

Contact us    

If you have questions during the application process, please reach out to the Early Careers Team at [email protected]   

Next steps:

Everyone who works at AWE brings unique skills and perspectives to the table. We recognise that great people don’t always ‘tick every box’. That’s why we focus on your potential, your fit with our values, your transferable skills as well as your experience. Even if you don’t meet every point above, but you feel that this role and AWE are a great fit for you, please go ahead and apply, we’d love to receive your application.

Important things you need to know:

• We encourage you to apply promptly to avoid disappointment if applications are high and the role therefore closes.
• You will need to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role. This will be funded by AWE. The nature of our work does mean you need to be a British Citizen who has been resident in the UK for the past 5 years in order to apply for SC clearance and 10 years for DV. 
• We want you to feel comfortable and able to shine during our recruitment process. Please let us know on your application form if you need any adjustments/accommodations during the process.
• Our interviews typically take place over Teams and for most roles are a 1 stage process.

Our ambition is to create workplaces where we recognise and celebrate differences, encourage diverse contributions and our employees feel able to be themselves at work. We strive to create a genuine culture of openness and inclusion and encourage diverse applicants. Any inclusion information you provide will be stored in accordance with GDPR and kept separate from your application form and CV, and the information will not be shared with anyone involved in interviewing or making hiring decisions.

Please note that you must be a British Citizen to apply for a role with us.