Laboratory Technician Apprenticeship (Level 3) - Jean Lefebvre

Department: Science Apprenticeship - Chemistry L3

Employment Type: Apprentice

Location: Essex

Compensation: £19,500 / year

Description

Location: West Thurrock - Navigator Terminals Thames Limited, Oliver Road, West Thurrock, Grays, Essex RM20 3ED

Expected Start Date: ASAP

Working for Jean Lefebvre
 
Experienced in all categories of structures, in the UK and from across Europe, North America and Africa, including carriageways, footways, industrial pavements, airfields and ports, we can provide our clients with a range of integrated services, or touch points, to select from.

With a UKAS accredited testing laboratory (No 4201) , capable of performing a variety of performance tests and specialised material designs, supported by our ISO compliant management system, we ensure our methodology is compliant, delivering to the highest quality standards.

From initial pavement evaluation and site investigation to the development of a bespoke pavement design, or independent technical advice on pavement and material specifications or skid resistance, we can assist.

The Package

• Starting salary of £19,500/year
• 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Workings hours are Monday to Friday 08:00am to 16:00pm
• Employer pension contribution
• Bi-annual salary increase
• Apprentice network / LGTBQ+ network / Woman’s network 

Key Responsibilities

The Laboratory Technician Level 3 Apprentice supports the quality and technical performance of materials through routine sampling, testing, and analysis of aggregates, sands, raw materials, and bituminous products. The role includes monitoring results to identify issues, reporting non-conformities, supporting complaint investigations, maintaining accurate laboratory records, and ensuring equipment is calibrated and the laboratory is well maintained, while working towards a recognised apprenticeship standard. 

• Ensure the sampling and testing of all aggregate, sands, incoming raw materials and bituminous materials and bitumen are carried out at the required frequency.
• Assist with the monitoring of analysis and trends following testing of materials and finished products to ensure appropriate preventative action has been taken to ensure quality and technical performance is maintained.
• Report all instances of product, test rate failure and non-conformities to technical management.
• Provide technical advice and support to other internal departments as and when required and to customers within set guidelines.
• Input data and operate the laboratory computer database system.
• Carry out preliminary complaint investigations.
• Ensure the laboratory environment and test equipment is well maintained and within calibration.

About You

You’re naturally curious and enjoy understanding how things work, not just following instructions. You take pride in getting things right, paying close attention to detail, and producing accurate, reliable results. Whether you’ve explored science before or are just starting out, you’re motivated to build real knowledge and develop a long-term career in a laboratory environment.

You’re someone who thrives in a structured setting - you like clarity, routine, and knowing what good looks like. Following processes, working to standards, and carefully recording your work feels satisfying rather than restrictive. You’re patient, focused, and comfortable spending time on precise tasks, even when they’re repetitive, because you understand that quality and consistency matter.

You take ownership of your learning, are open to feedback, and approach your work with a calm, methodical mindset. You’re just as happy working independently as you are contributing to a team, and you’re excited by the idea of progressing within a lab setting - building your skills step by step and becoming a trusted expert over time.  

Please note: You must be 18+ due to the nature of the working environment 
Apprenticeship Eligibility

To apply for this apprenticeship, you must:
✔️ Be 16 or over
✔️ Not be in full-time education
✔️ Have lived in the UK for at least 3 years
✔️ Have the right to work in the UK

Apprenticeships are designed to provide new knowledge, skills and behaviours, so applicants should not already hold a Level 3, degree or higher qualification in a closely related subject, or have significant experience in the same field.

If you’re unsure whether you meet the criteria, we’d still love to hear from you - get in touch and we can advise you further.

So how does the apprenticeship work?

Start your career as a laboratory technician and gain hands-on experience supporting real scientific work in a professional laboratory or technical environment.

As part of this Level 3 Laboratory Technician apprenticeship, you’ll learn how to carry out tests, analyse data, and contribute to important projects, whether that’s in a laboratory or a more practical, site-based environment.

👉 Learn more about the programme here.

Over 20 months, you’ll combine day-to-day experience in your role with structured training delivered by expert tutors at Tiro. Our blended learning approach includes a mix of online sessions, in-person training, and hands-on support, alongside guidance from a dedicated mentor in the workplace.

You’ll spend at least 6 hours per week on off-the-job training, including virtual learning, practical activities, and applied assignments.

What your training will look like:You’ll follow a structured programme combining live sessions, online learning, and hands-on workplace training to build your skills step by step.

What could your future look like?

This apprenticeship will help you build the skills and experience needed to start your career as a laboratory technician and progress within the industry.

Through hands-on training, you’ll develop the competence and confidence to carry out laboratory testing and take on increasing responsibility in your role. This programme can also lead to professional recognition, such as becoming a Registered Science Technician (RSciTech).

You’ll gain experience that’s valued across a wide range of technical and scientific roles, opening up opportunities to grow and specialise in your chosen field.

If you choose to continue your development, you may also have the opportunity to progress onto higher-level qualifications, such as degree apprenticeships in Biology, Materials, or Chemistry.