At a Glance
- Tasks: Log and prepare samples, run tests, and maintain lab equipment.
- Company: Join a leading consultancy in water, waste, and environmental services.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience with training and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible shifts and a supportive team environment await you!
- Why this job: Make a difference in sustainability while learning valuable lab skills.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and Maths (grade 4 or equivalent) required.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 £ per year.
WATER RESEARCH CENTRE LIMITED
Location: Frankland Road, Blagrove, Swindon, SN5 8YF
Hours: Monday – Thursday 9:00am – 5:00pm, Friday 9:00am – 4:30pm (37 hours a week)
Duration: 2 years
What you'll do at work:
- Log samples into the database
- Prepare samples (mixing, weighing, drying, sorting) with safety gear and guidance
- Run basic tests such as moisture checks and ignition loss
- Record results in spreadsheets
- Help keep the lab clean and organised
- Assist with equipment checks and calibrations
Training:
- Comply with health and safety policies and procedures including HASWA, COSHH, risk assessments, PPE, manual handling and emergency procedures
- Maintain excellent housekeeping in accordance with organisational standard procedures
- Order and control stocks of laboratory materials where required
- Identify, organise and use resources effectively to complete tasks applying the concepts of resource efficiency (energy, water and waste)
- Adhere to internal and external regulatory requirements such as GLP, GMP, GDP
- Prepare for and perform laboratory experiments, tests or tasks following standardized methodologies to provide reliable, accurate data (e.g., weighing, pipetting, filtering, spectroscopic and chromatography techniques)
- Demonstrate technical competence in the use of specified instruments and equipment
- Report faults and seek diagnostic advice to maintain equipment in good working order, including calibration where required
- Complete documentation proficiently and keep accurate records of laboratory work and results
- Contribute to the preparation of reports and use simple statistical techniques for data presentation and evaluation (e.g., calculation of median and standard deviation, production of graphs)
- Demonstrate problem-solving techniques, including identification of sources of error and methods to reduce them
- Use standard software packages such as Microsoft Office and Laboratory Information Management systems to support work
- Address non-routine problems with samples and instrumentation within defined areas
- Identify relevant scientific information from supervisors, literature, etc., and use it to contribute to solutions
- Participate in continuous performance improvement of systems and processes relevant to the work environment (e.g., workplace organisation, accreditation such as ISO, UKAS and proficiency testing)
- Evaluate data, recognise and call attention to anomalous or unusual results
Off-the-job training will be provided by New College Swindon. On-the-job training is provided by WRC.
Requirements:
- GCSE in English (grade 4 or equivalent)
- GCSE in Mathematics (grade 4 or equivalent)
- Share if you have other relevant qualifications and industry experience. The apprenticeship can be adjusted to reflect what you already know.
Skills:
- Practical, hands-on approach
- Flexibility
- Safety-savvy
Other requirements:
- You must be 18 or above
- Comfortable handling bulky samples (some lifting involved)
- Live locally and be able to get to the Swindon office
- Happy to work different shift patterns
About this employer:
Providers of consultancy, technical services, accreditation schemes, research, innovation and training to customers in the water, waste and environment sectors around the globe.
The reference code for this apprenticeship is VAC2000037961.
Apprentice Laboratory Technician – Waste and Resources in Swindon employer: New College
At the Water Research Centre Limited, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a supportive and collaborative work culture. Our apprenticeship programme offers hands-on training and development opportunities in a dynamic environment, allowing you to grow your skills while contributing to meaningful projects in the waste and resources sector. Located in Swindon, our team enjoys a balanced work-life schedule and the chance to make a positive impact on environmental sustainability.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Apprentice Laboratory Technician – Waste and Resources in Swindon
✨Get Your Hands Dirty at Local Eco Events
Jump into local environmental clean-up drives or tech expos focused on green engineering. Not only will this look fab on your CV, but you'll also meet industry folks who might have leads on apprenticeship spots. Show up, volunteer, and let your passion shine!
✨Connect with Uni Career Services
If you're still in school, tap into your uni's career services. They often have partnerships with companies looking for apprentices. Plus, they might know about programmes that aren't widely advertised. Don’t be shy — get them involved in your search!
✨Engage in Online Communities
Join online forums and social media groups centred around environmental engineering. Platforms like LinkedIn and Reddit have specific channels where apprenticeships are shared, and you can interact with industry professionals. Get your name out there and ask about opportunities!
✨Check Out Industry-Specific Job Portals
Look for job portals that cater specifically to environmental engineering. These sites often have apprenticeship listings that traditional job boards might miss. Make it a habit to browse them regularly, and consider reaching out directly to companies you admire, like New College, if they have open positions!
We think you need these skills to ace Apprentice Laboratory Technician – Waste and Resources in Swindon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Environment:When you're applying for an apprenticeship in environmental engineering tech, it's crucial to communicate your enthusiasm for sustainability and eco-friendly technologies. Use your cover letter to share any projects or initiatives you've been involved in that reflect your commitment to the environment. This can set you apart from other candidates!
Highlight Relevant Coursework and Projects:Make sure your CV includes any relevant coursework or projects related to environmental engineering. If you've tackled anything from renewable energy projects to sustainability assessments in school, let us know! Specific examples help us see your practical skills and the knowledge you can bring to the table.
Tailor Your Application to the Role:It's important to customise your CV for this apprenticeship. Highlight skills that are essential in environmental engineering, such as teamwork, problem-solving, and analytical thinking. Don’t forget to mention any technical skills you've gained, whether that's software related to environmental modelling or data analysis!
Keep It Concise and Clear:While we love a good story, your application needs to be straightforward. Stick to the key points about your skills and experiences that are most relevant to the role. Aim for clarity and brevity so we can quickly see why you’d be a fantastic fit for an apprenticeship in environmental engineering tech at New College.
How to prepare for a job interview at New College
✨Show Your Passion for the Environment
As an aspiring environmental engineering tech apprentice, we want to be sure you convey your enthusiasm for sustainability and environmental issues. Share any relevant projects, volunteering experiences, or even personal initiatives that demonstrate your commitment to the field—this can really set you apart!
✨Brush Up on Relevant Software Tools
In this field, familiarity with tools like AutoCAD, GIS, or environmental modelling software is a big plus. Be ready to discuss any experience you have with these tools or similar ones—showing you can hit the ground running will impress New College.
✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Skills
Environmental challenges often require creative problem-solving. Prep for a scenario-based question where you’ll need to come up with a solution to a specific environmental issue. Think about real-world examples where you’ve tackled problems—this could show your analytical thinking and adaptability.
✨Express Your Eagerness to Learn
Since you're applying for an apprenticeship, it’s crucial to focus on your willingness to learn and develop in the role. Be sure to convey your desire to gain hands-on experience and how this apprenticeship at New College fits into your future career goals in environmental engineering.
