At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our innovation team to develop and manage cutting-edge concrete systems.
- Company: Sika, a global leader in materials science with a focus on sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, 25+ days holiday, private healthcare, and a supportive work culture.
- Other info: Great career progression opportunities within a dynamic global company.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that drives innovation and sustainability in the construction industry.
- Qualifications: A-levels or equivalent, enthusiasm for science, and a desire to learn.
The predicted salary is between 19350 - 23650 £ per year.
About Sika Research and Development
Innovation is at the heart of Sika's values, and the Research & Development (R&D) function plays a pivotal role in the company's continued success. As of 2025, Sika's global R&D network comprises more than 1,800 employees working across 16 Global Technology Centers and over 100 local and regional R&D facilities located in more than 90 locations worldwide. Its innovation is driven by five core technology platforms that enhance performance, durability, and sustainability across both construction and industrial manufacturing. The Technology Centre in Welwyn Garden City specialises in Concrete Systems, Cementitious Systems, and Data Science, and plays a leading role in delivering innovative solutions for national and international markets across all three disciplines.
Purpose of the Role
The primary objective of the Materials Science Degree Apprentice – Concrete Systems role is to play an active part in maintaining Sika's technological leadership by supporting and contributing to the development and management of both innovation and product maintenance projects. A strong emphasis is placed on sustainability, ensuring that Sika's products and services continue to set the industry standard for performance, quality, and environmental responsibility.
The Opportunity:
- You will develop excellent understanding of the chemistry and technology of cement and concrete systems.
- You will master the principles of project management in a busy ambitious market leading organisation.
- You will be part of an innovation team with an excellent track record of identifying, developing and deploying cutting edge technologies and services.
- If you are enthusiastic about sustainability then this position is right for you.
The Support:
As this role requires a deep knowledge of Sika’s internal working processes, both in R&D and infrastructure, you will be trained in these processes with full support from our existing team. We are a small team who prioritise satisfaction and excellence in our work, and we will do our utmost to ensure that you are content in your role, accommodating for your needs. We aim to foster an honest and democratic culture, where all voices are equally important, and everyone is treated with respect.
The Skills:
This role requires a significant commitment to professional and personal development from day one. You will be first and foremost required to be an excellent team player with a proactive interdependent attitude. You will be required to effectively handle numerous projects relevant to product development and technical service (both internal and external). Your excellent interpersonal skills will be essential in maintaining productive relationships with key stakeholders across multiple departments within the organisation as well as customers and material suppliers.
The Future: Potential Career Routes:
- R&D Chemist
- Senior Project Leader
- Team Leader
The opportunity to progress within a global company across a variety of business areas.
Qualifications
- Minimum Level 3 qualification (A-levels, BTEC or equivalent) or relevant prior experience.
- GCSE Maths and English at Grade C/4 or above (or to be achieved prior to End Point Assessment).
- Enthusiasm for science, engineering, and materials technology.
- Familiarity with MS Office and willingness to learn new digital tools.
- Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
- Team player aptitude is a must.
- Desire to learn and develop.
Additional Information
The Rewards:
You will be rewarded with a competitive salary, and a sweep of great benefits. We pride ourselves on our total reward package:
- Holiday 25 days rising to 28 days with service, plus bank holidays.
- Core Hours Working.
- A company pension contribution of up to 10%.
- Private healthcare for you, with option to add family.
- Group life cover at 6* your annual salary.
- Global Income Protection (PHI).
- Enhanced maternity and paternity pay.
- Staff discount platform & Cycle to Work scheme.
- Dedicated Service Awards for reaching key milestones.
- Selected discounted Sika products.
We offer competitive salaries, aligned with local market benchmarks and the specific scope and responsibilities of each role. Compensation is determined based on skills relevant to the position, education and/or training. We are committed to fair and equitable pay practices in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
Materials Science Apprentice — Concrete Systems R&D employer: Sika
Sika is an excellent employer that values its employees by offering a supportive work culture and opportunities for career progression within a global framework. With benefits such as 25 days of holiday and the flexibility of hybrid working, Sika fosters a balanced work-life environment, making it an ideal place for those looking to grow their careers while contributing to a dynamic team in Leeds.
