Asbestos Technician Apprentice (Level 3) - Thames Laboratories in Cambridge

Position Summary

Location: Cambridge

Compensation: £21,500 / year

Department: Science Apprenticeship - Asbestos L3

Location: Hollow Farm, Hilton Rd, Fenstanton, Huntingdon PE28 9LJ

Working for Thames Laboratories

Thames Laboratories, established in 1991, is a leading accredited asbestos consultancy with office locations in London, Cambridgeshire, and Stoke-on-Trent. We offer trusted asbestos solutions nationally, holding UKAS accreditation since inception. We provide a full range of asbestos consultancy services to clients in the public and private sectors, delivering outstanding and high-quality service.

The Package

• Starting salary of £21,500 per year
• 31 days annual leave
• 37.5 hours per week (Between 8:00am – 6:00pm) Monday to Friday
• Christmas shut-down period
• Westfield Health Medical Cover - Health cash plan, allowing you to claim money back towards the cost of your essential healthcare
• Discounts at hundreds of retailers, restaurants and destinations as well as gym discounts.
• Workplace Pension

What will I be doing as an apprentice?

As a trainee laboratory technician, you will play a crucial role in identifying the presence of asbestos in samples by following established procedures and protocols. We are looking for someone who has good attention to detail and has an ability to work independently as well as collaborate with a team. This role is ideal for individuals seeking to start their career in laboratory science with a focus on asbestos analysis, offering a blend of practical experience and structured learning.

Key Responsibilities

• Follow set procedures to accurately identify if asbestos is present within samples
• Accurately input sample information and analysis into our internal system
• Maintain a high level of cleanliness and tidiness within the lab
• Calibrate and maintain equipment as required
• Be involved in regular inspections to maintain our UKAS accreditations
• Adhering to strict health and safety regulations
• Check the reports are technically accurate before being sent
• Liaise with site staff to assist in resolving any queries that may be identified when report checking.

What could the future look like?

When you join Thames Laboratories the possibilities for your success are limitless. As a successful applicant, you have the potential to secure a full-time position within the company at the conclusion of your apprenticeship. Through practical training on the job, you can look forward to a range of potential career paths in industries such as manufacturing, construction, engineering, aerospace, automotive, or research and development. There is a growing demand for skilled professionals who can ensure the quality and reliability of materials used in various sectors. This apprenticeship program also serves as a stepping‑stone towards a rewarding career in laboratory testing, with the added opportunity for the apprentice to become a registered Science Technician (RSci Tech). This apprenticeship can also help pave the way for further educational and professional advancement such as our Level 6 Bachelor of Science (BSc) Applied Materials Science or Applied Chemical Science Apprenticeships, enabling you to take on more specialised roles or progress into leadership positions.

Skills, Knowledge, and Experience

Laboratories are a tightly run ship – particularly those that are UKAS accredited! To thrive in this role, you will need:

• An accurate, systematic method of working.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• A scientific aptitude and keen interest in materials science.
• Strong organisation skill.
• Motivation and drive.
• The ability to work independently and adhere to deadlines.

Due to the remote location of the role access to your own car or motor vehicle is required.

Experience

We value attitude, curiosity, and commitment just as much as past experience. While previous experience can be helpful, it’s not essential — we welcome applicants from all backgrounds, especially those with a genuine interest in the field and the motivation to build a career. You might be a school or college leaver, or someone looking to retrain. Either way, if you’re enthusiastic, proactive, and ready to learn, you’ll fit right in.

Qualifications

It’s about enthusiasm, not school results. In our experience the most successful apprentices are those who are driven to find out more about the sector, can be up front about what they do and don’t already know, are considerate, self‑reflective, and impatient to learn the job role!

So how does the apprenticeship work?

Over 18 months, you’ll devote a minimum of 6 hours of your working week on ‘off the job’ training. This can include theory training (for example, virtual lessons & online learning), alongside practical training (for example shadowing, mentoring, & time spent writing assignments). Together this will count towards a Level 3 Asbestos Technician apprenticeship. You’ll be trained by an expert tutor from Tiro as well as an experienced mentor at Thames Laboratories who together, will make sure you develop the knowledge, skills, and work habits you’ll need to succeed in your career. Being an apprentice is hands‑on, so you’ll get the chance to learn things you might otherwise not have experienced in a university or college environment. The best part? You’ll be earning a salary while you gain your qualifications, meaning no huge student loans to pay back at the end of the programme.

Eligibility

As a training provider, we are committed to ensuring that our apprenticeship programs deliver significant new knowledge and skills. To be eligible, applicants must demonstrate that the program will provide learning and experiences beyond their current qualifications and professional expertise. If you already hold a Level 3, degree or equivalent higher-level qualification in a closely related field, or possess substantial relevant experience, you may not be eligible for apprenticeship funding, as these programmes are designed for individuals who require upskilling or reskilling in their chosen career pathway. You’ll need to be over 16, not in full time education, have lived in the UK for 3 years and have the right to work in the UK. If you don’t quite meet these minimum requirements yet, let us know you’re interested here and we’ll get in touch to discuss this further with you.