Laboratory Science (Chemistry) Level 6/Degree Apprenticeship

Join our Mission to Lead the Future of Snacking. Make It Matter. As an organization, we are committed to developing the next generation of Makers and Bakers. Joining us at an early career stage in our fast-paced and ever-changing environment will enable you to do more, learn more, and grow more. You will be encouraged to step outside your comfort zone—you may even surprise yourself! We will ensure you are given the support you need to be at your best and enable you to be yourself and bring passion and personality.

At Reading Scientific Services Ltd (RSSL), we lead the way in scientific analysis, research, consultancy, and training. We provide services to the food, pharmaceutical, and consumer goods industries, as well as our parent company, Mondelez International. RSSL is dedicated to delivering world-class scientific solutions and outstanding customer service. Our Laboratory Science Apprenticeship strikes the ideal balance between going to university and getting a job. You get to earn while you learn—backing up the classroom theory with practical training from industry experts. All in all, the perfect preparation for an incredible career with a fast-paced, diverse, and dynamic company.

We are looking for highly motivated people with a real passion for science and determination to learn. No prior experience is needed as we’ll give you all the training you need to succeed. You’ll need to be able to work well in a team, as well as independently, and have excellent communication skills.

The Laboratory Scientist role is a 4-year programme, which will require balancing work with learning. Your day-to-day work and training will be supported by studying towards a BSc Chemical Science degree with Manchester Metropolitan University. The main learning will be completed once a week online, with a residential week once a year. You will spend the first 24 months of the apprenticeship moving around different departments, learning more about the specialisms of each team, to learn and carry out lab work. After 24 months, you’ll join a specific department where you’ll continue to grow and develop your skills. To support your education, you will be eligible to utilise 20% of your time towards your studies. This could be one day a week, or you can save them up to use for revision and exams.

You’ll need a good academic background to qualify for our apprentice program, including: 104 UCAS points at A-Level (grade BCC), one of which must be chemistry (or an equivalent scientific discipline). A minimum of 5 GCSEs (or equivalent) at grades 9-5, including a Science, Maths, and English Language (not Literature). As part of the requirement for this role, you will need to apply and be accepted onto the University course after an offer has been made by RSSL.

You will be based at one of our four sites, all of which house state-of-the-art laboratories. These sites are the Reading Science Centre, JJT and Knight Building (based on the University of Reading campus), and the fourth a short drive away in Wokingham.

Our Apprenticeship programs start every September, and for this role, you would start on the 1st of September 2025. Your Apprenticeship will be in line with your education, expected to be 4 years depending on the modules you study. We will evaluate any applicants who do not meet these requirements but have relevant workplace experience or other equivalent qualifications (e.g. T-levels or BTEC diploma/extended diploma in a scientific discipline).

In return for your work and dedication, you can look forward to:

• Competitive salary and annual bonus based on performance
• 35 days annual leave (including bank holidays)
• Access to world-class scientific equipment
• The opportunity to work with and learn from highly qualified and experienced scientists
• Eligible for NUS Extra card providing you with discounts to many high street/online shops
• Contributory pension and flexible benefits programme
• Access to employee health and well-being programmes

You will be required to travel to the University site during your block release and for other agreed activities. 9-5, Monday to Friday schedule. Closing date for applications is midday Friday 2nd May 2025. We will be holding our final interview for this role in-person at our Reading in May 2025. Reasonable travel expenses will be covered.

Reading Scientific Services Ltd (RSSL) is a cutting-edge contract research organisation (CRO), providing research, analysis, and consultancy to the food, consumer goods, and life science sectors. Whether we are creating new products, validating medicines, or solving investigations, we take pride in being a leader in our field, serving clients from across 70 countries. Enriched by our parent company, Mondelēz International, our team is committed to transforming lives through science, innovation, and collaboration.

RSSL is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, sexual orientation or preference, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.