Laboratory Technician Modern Apprenticeship in Grangemouth

Celtic Renewables is widely regarded as one of the most innovative biotech companies in Europe, having developed a patented and proven process that converts biological residues from by-products and waste into sustainable green chemicals, driving the global shift to a circular economy. Our technology has successfully reinvented the century old Acetone-Butanol-Ethanol (ABE) fermentation process, bringing it back to a global scale. As a world leader in re-establishing this process, Celtic Renewables operates from Scotland’s first biorefinery in Grangemouth, at industrial and commercial scale.

As a Laboratory Apprentice, you will complete a two year Applied Science Modern Apprenticeship based at Celtic Renewables Grangemouth Manufacturing Centre where you will learn about the ABE process. Over the 4 years, you will receive dedicated training to become a qualified Laboratory Technician gaining the skills and experience to make a real impact within the Green Chemical sector within Grangemouth. The Laboratory Apprentice plays a critical support role within the lab team, learning through hands‑on experience, shadowing, and formal training. This role provides foundational knowledge in Good Lab Practice (GLP) and skill development across a wide range of laboratory operations.

The apprentice will assist in routine lab tasks, ensure compliance with health and safety standards, and progressively develop the competencies required for independent technical work in a laboratory environment. You will study at Forth Valley College on day release one day per week with additional time spent during college holidays learning and shadowing our experienced laboratory team to get a better understanding of the business whilst you learn at college.

Responsibilities

• Follow all safety protocols and procedures, including proper use of PPE.
• Adhere to regulatory requirements for chemical handling and waste disposal.
• Support health & safety compliance initiatives.
• Clean laboratory equipment and surfaces to ensure a safe, hygienic workspace.
• Organize supplies and consumables, maintaining order in storage areas.
• Perform routine daily equipment and area checks.
• Measure, mix, and prepare materials accurately for experiments.
• Prepare reagents used in daily testing and analysis.
• Develop knowledge of lab instrumentation and its purpose.
• Assist in setting up and operating basic laboratory instruments.
• Assist with preventive maintenance tasks as directed.
• Learn theory and calibration of lab equipment under supervision.
• Accurately record experiment data and observations in laboratory notebooks and electronically.
• Under supervision, perform analysis and techniques such as Microbiology, Gas Chromatography (GC), High‑Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), and Karl Fischer titration.
• Support raw material & effluent analysis as part of quality checks.
• Participate in structured online and practical learning programs.
• Shadow experienced lab staff to build core knowledge and lab skills.
• Regular 1:1 and personal development meetings.

What qualifications or qualities are required?

• NC Applied Science Level 6.
• Foundation Apprenticeship in Scientific Technologies and a further Higher at grade C or above.
• An appropriate group of National Qualification units.
• A minimum of two Highers at grade C or above (Preferably to include Biology and Chemistry).

Additional Requirements

• Some form of work experience (all types considered).
• A responsible attitude with a strong appetite to learn and apply within the working environment.
• Keen interest in science and laboratory work.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Willingness to learn and follow instructions.
• Good organisational and time management skills.
• Basic computer literacy.
• Team player with good communication skills.

What’s in it for you?

We’re here to help you make the most of your skills and abilities with first‑class training, support, and an investment in your development. You will earn as you learn. You’ll start on a salary ranging between £16,000 – £20,000 depending on any previous experience, with clear, scheduled pay increases as you reach key milestones throughout your training. You’ll also be eligible to join the private healthcare and a pension scheme.

Why Celtic Renewables?

• Gain hands on experience working at Scotland’s first and world‑leading biorefinery, using the ABE fermentation process to produce green chemicals.
• Help lead the green chemical revolution, contributing to the future of sustainable manufacturing.
• Our green chemicals can be used in thousands of everyday products, helping to reduce the carbon footprints of the items we use in our daily lives.