At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to learn and support real manufacturing operations.
- Company: Sika, a global leader in specialty chemicals and innovative solutions.
- Benefits: 25 days holiday, private healthcare, pension contributions, and professional development.
- Other info: Collaborative culture focused on safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Kickstart your engineering career with hands-on experience and mentorship.
- Qualifications: Curiosity about manufacturing, strong communication skills, and a willingness to learn.
The predicted salary is between 18500 - 25000 £ per year.
Company Description
Process Industry Manufacturing Technician Apprenticeship
Preston, UK
Build the future of manufacturing with Sika. Engineering is changing. Manufacturing is becoming smarter, more automated, more sustainable, and more connected than ever before. At Sika, we’re looking for curious, ambitious people who want to be part of that transformation. This is the start of a career where you’ll help keep critical manufacturing operations running, learn from experienced operatives, and develop the technical skills that power global industry. If you enjoy solving problems, understanding how things work, and learning hands-on in a fast-moving environment, we’d like to hear from you.
About Sika
Sika is a global leader in specialty chemicals, developing innovative solutions used across construction and industrial manufacturing worldwide. From major infrastructure and transportation projects to advanced manufacturing technologies, our products help shape the modern world more sustainably and efficiently. With operations in over 100 countries, more than 400 factories globally, and over 34,000 employees worldwide, Sika combines global innovation with strong local teams and long-term career opportunities. At our Preston site, manufacturing plays a critical role in supporting safe, reliable, and efficient manufacturing operations delivering for our customers and our apprentices are an important part of that future.
About the Opportunity
Our Process Industry Manufacturing Apprenticeship is designed to develop the next generation of manufacturing talent. You’ll join an experienced manufacturing team supporting a live manufacturing environment who are dedicated to manufacturing high quality products for our customers, delivering the excellence they expect from Sika. From learning about the chemicals we handle and the products we manufacture, you’ll gain real-world manufacturing experience from day one. Alongside practical site-based learning, you’ll complete day-release study towards a Level 3 qualification in Process Industry Manufacturing techniques. This is an opportunity to build technical expertise, confidence, and professional experience within a global manufacturing business that invests heavily in development and innovation.
What You’ll Gain
- Real Manufacturing Experience: Work alongside experienced operatives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment where your learning directly connects to real operational challenges.
- Professional Development: Develop technical, problem-solving, and practical skills through hands-on experience and structured learning.
- Mentorship & Support: You’ll be supported by a collaborative team committed to helping you grow, learn, and succeed throughout your apprenticeship journey.
- A Long-Term Career Path: This role is designed to develop future engineering talent. Successful apprentices can progress into roles such as Manufacturing Team Leader or Manufacturing Supervisor.
The Culture You’ll Join
Safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement are at the heart of everything we do. At Preston, you’ll join a team that values collaboration, accountability, and supporting each other to succeed. We’re proud of the environment we’ve created, one where apprentices are encouraged to contribute ideas, ask questions, and develop confidence from the very beginning. We don’t expect you to know everything on day one. We’re looking for potential, attitude, and willingness to learn.
Qualifications
What We’re Looking For
- Curious about manufacturing and how things work
- Enjoy being active as this is a role where you are constantly on the go
- Motivated to learn and develop new skills
- Strong communicators and team players
- Committed to working safely and responsibly
- Problem-solvers who enjoy practical challenges
- Ready to work towards a Level 3 Process qualification
Essential Qualifications
- Grade 4/C or above in Maths and English
- Science-based subjects are advantageous, particularly Chemistry
Additional Information
Why Join Sika? We believe great careers are built when people feel supported, challenged, and valued. That’s why we offer a competitive reward package alongside genuine investment in your future.
Our Benefits Include:
- 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
- Company pension contribution up to 10%
- Private healthcare
- Group life cover
- Enhanced maternity and paternity pay
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Employee discount platform
- Recognition awards for key milestones
- Access to learning and development through the global Sika Business School
You’ll also work a structured weekly schedule combining practical experience with dedicated learning time.
Start Your Engineering Career with Sika
If you’re ready to develop your skills, learn from experienced professionals, and build a long-term future in engineering, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now and help shape the future of manufacturing. 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.
Process Industry Manufacturing Technician Apprentice in Preston employer: Sika
At Sika, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work culture that fosters growth and innovation. Our Preston site is dedicated to developing the next generation of manufacturing talent through hands-on experience, mentorship, and a structured learning environment, all while providing competitive benefits such as a generous holiday allowance, private healthcare, and a commitment to your long-term career development. Join us to be part of a team that values safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement in a fast-paced manufacturing setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Process Industry Manufacturing Technician Apprentice in Preston
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former apprentices at Sika on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for you. This can give you insider knowledge and make your application stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Sika’s products and values. Show that you’re genuinely interested in the company and how you can contribute to their mission. We love seeing candidates who are passionate about what we do!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your problem-solving skills! Since this role involves practical challenges, think of examples from your past where you’ve tackled issues head-on. We want to see how you approach problems and find solutions.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Sika.
We think you need these skills to ace Process Industry Manufacturing Technician Apprentice in Preston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Curiosity:We want to see your passion for manufacturing! In your application, share any experiences or projects that sparked your interest in how things work. This will help us understand your motivation and eagerness to learn.
Highlight Teamwork Skills:Since teamwork is key at Sika, make sure to mention any group projects or team activities you've been involved in. We love seeing how you collaborate with others and contribute to a team environment.
Be Yourself:Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through in your application. We’re looking for potential and attitude, so share your unique perspective and what makes you excited about this apprenticeship!
Apply Through Our Website:To make sure your application gets to us, apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure we see your application and can consider you for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sika
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Sika's products and the manufacturing processes they use. Understanding the chemicals and techniques involved will show your genuine interest and help you connect your knowledge to the role.
✨Show Your Curiosity
During the interview, express your curiosity about manufacturing. Ask insightful questions about the processes and challenges faced in the industry. This demonstrates your eagerness to learn and grow within the company.
✨Highlight Teamwork Skills
Since teamwork is crucial at Sika, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully worked in a team before. Discuss any collaborative projects or experiences that showcase your ability to communicate and support others.
✨Emphasise Problem-Solving Abilities
Prepare to discuss specific instances where you've tackled practical challenges. Whether it's a school project or a personal endeavour, illustrating your problem-solving skills will resonate well with the interviewers looking for future talent.
