Chemistry Laboratory Technician Apprenticeship (Level 5 Higher)

As a Materials and Analytical Science Laboratory Technician Apprentice, you will spend the first few weeks of your apprenticeship within the Skills Academy; before joining the Materials and Analytical Sciences team based in our laboratories across the AWE Aldermaston site. The Materials and Analytical Sciences function are responsible for the research, testing and analysis of several different materials ranging from warhead components to environmental samples. This work is vital in assuring AWE's mission to deliver the warhead is accomplished whilst keeping their people and environment safe.

During the time in placements, you will undertake and complete various laboratory-based tasks which will enable you to develop a complete set of skills and knowledge required to work successfully at AWE.

· Laboratory safety

· Handling of hazardous substances- awareness of radioactive and explosive materials

· Quality and its application in a laboratory environment

· Customer service skills

· Use of laboratory equipment

· Preparation of substances

· Sample preparation

· Analysis of samples

· Data handling

· Checking and reporting of results

In addition, you will also be given the opportunity for personal development through activities such as team building challenges, organisational awareness presentations, health and safety workshops and charity projects.

A part of this role will require wearing Health and Safety equipment such as a respirator. Therefore, successful candidates will need to undergo a medical assessment for suitability for the position within the required parameters for the health and safety equipment's requirements.

We are AWE. We're a team of remarkable people achieving an extraordinary mission: keeping the nation safe and secure. Our work is critical. We are responsible for delivering the next warhead for the UK's nuclear deterrent; working at the forefront of nuclear technologies that keep the nation safe., AWE's support for the government's strategy takes many facets: from supporting the weapon programme for the nuclear deterrent, supporting the UK's counter terrorist programme, identifying where there may be nuclear tests taking place around the world, and building an expert group of individuals in order to give the UK real depth in nuclear science and technology.

Start an extraordinary career at AWE; grow your skills, learn from industry experts and become part of a community at one of the most unique companies in the UK.

· AWE offer apprentices a starting salary of £22,250 increasing annually throughout your apprenticeship

· Market leading contributory pension scheme

· Generous holiday entitlement 270 hours a year (inclusive of Bank Holidays) plus every other Friday off

· Access to employee discounts portal, everyday savings on retail, hospitality and leisure.

· Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services

Alongside these benefits you will get the opportunity to learn from some of the top leaders in their field whilst helping to continue to deliver national nuclear security, threat reduction and counter-terrorism solutions.

Recruitment Process

AWE recruit on a rolling basis which means as soon as the positions have been filled, the scheme will close to new applications. So, please apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out!

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.

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