Materials Science Technologist (Degree Apprenticeship) in Swinton

Location: Luxfer MEL Technologies, Manchester

Department: Research & Development

Salary: Starting at £18,000

Are you passionate about materials science and looking to kick-off your engineering career with an exciting apprenticeship opportunity? Luxfer MEL Technologies (LMT) is at the forefront of developing cutting‑edge magnesium alloys and innovative zirconium materials for industries ranging from aerospace to healthcare. Join our world‑class team at our Manchester site and become part of the future of advanced materials!

As a Materials Science Technologist, you’ll be a key player in our R&D department, helping to shape the next generation of lightweight materials. Based in the renowned Magnesium Technology Centre, you’ll have the opportunity to work on exciting projects that make a real‑world impact. In addition to hands‑on experience, you’ll complete a structured training program through Sheffield Hallam University's Materials Science Technologist course, leading to a BEng (Honours) degree in Materials Technology after 4.5 years.

Key Responsibilities:

• Section and prepare castings, extrusions, and forgings for analysis
• Conduct mechanical testing of materials to evaluate their properties
• Assist in the developmental foundry to prepare small‑scale castings
• Collate test results and write comprehensive reports
• Collaborate with various departments to enhance product quality and processes

You’ll also gain valuable experience through placements in other departments such as Quality Assurance and Manufacturing—each lasting six months—to broaden your skill set and knowledge base.

Who We’re Looking For:

We’re looking for a motivated, self‑driven individual with a passion for pursuing a career in engineering. You should have a keen interest in materials science, be able to work well under pressure, and demonstrate strong time management and organisational skills. Above all, we want someone eager to learn and grow with the company.

Essential Criteria:

• Minimum of 5 GCSEs (Grade C/4 or above), including English, Science, and Mathematics
• Predicted to achieve at least 112 UCAS points (e.g., AAC at A‑level or DMM in BTECs), including Mathematics or a mathematics‑based subject at AS‑level or higher
• Achieved an A in at least 1 STEM subject at A‑level, or a Distinction in BTECs
• A passion for engineering and technology
• Excellent communication skills and a collaborative approach to teamwork

What We Offer:

• 37 hours per week, Monday to Friday (standard office hours)
• A competitive salary £18,000 plus benefits
• A unique opportunity to earn while you learn and gain a fully accredited degree
• Supportive and flexible working environment, helping you develop both professionally and personally
• The chance to work with innovative materials at the cutting edge of technology

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and join a dynamic and growing company that values innovation, personal growth, and excellence, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today and become part of the future of Materials Science at Luxfer MEL Technologies!

Important Information – ITAR Compliance

This position may require access to US ITAR controlled information under a US export authorization/licence. To comply with these regulations, applicants must be eligible to access controlled technology. This typically requires a national of a country not listed under ITAR §126.1 (U.S. arms embargoed countries), and legally entitled to work in the UK. Regrettably, we are unable to consider applicants from countries currently listed under ITAR §126.1.

Luxfer MEL Technologies is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and are an equal opportunity employer. As a Disability Confident employer, we will ensure that a fair and proportionate number of disabled applicants that meet the minimum criteria for this position will be offered an interview. If you wish to request that your application be considered under the terms of our Guaranteed Interview Scheme, please explicitly state so in your CV and/or accompanying cover letter.