Laboratory Technician Apprenticeship (Level 3) - Jean Lefebvre in Essex

Location: West Thurrock - Navigator Terminals Thames Limited, Oliver Road, West Thurrock, Grays, Essex RM20 3ED

Expected Start Date: ASAP

Working for Jean Lefebvre, we can provide our clients with a range of integrated services, or touch points, to select from. With a UKAS accredited testing laboratory (No 4201), capable of performing a variety of performance tests and specialised material designs, supported by our ISO compliant management system, we ensure our methodology is compliant, delivering to the highest quality standards.

The Package:

• Starting salary of £19,500/year
• 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Working hours are Monday to Friday 08:00am to 04:00pm
• Employer pension contribution
• Bi-annual salary increase
• Apprentice network / LGBTQ+ network / Women’s network

Key Responsibilities:

• The Laboratory Technician Level 3 Apprentice supports the quality and technical performance of materials through routine sampling, testing, and analysis of aggregates, sands, raw materials, and bituminous products.
• The role includes monitoring results to identify issues, reporting non-conformities, supporting complaint investigations, maintaining accurate laboratory records, and ensuring equipment is calibrated and the laboratory is well maintained, while working towards a recognised apprenticeship standard.
• Ensure the sampling and testing of all aggregate, sands, incoming raw materials and bituminous materials and bitumen are carried out at the required frequency.
• Assist with the monitoring of analysis and trends following testing of materials and finished products to ensure appropriate preventative action has been taken to maintain quality and technical performance.
• Report all instances of product, test rate failure and non-conformities to technical management.
• Provide technical advice and support to other internal departments as and when required and to customers within set guidelines.
• Input data and operate the laboratory computer database system.
• Carry out preliminary complaint investigations.
• Ensure the laboratory environment and test equipment is well maintained and within calibration.

About You:

• You’re naturally curious and enjoy understanding how things work, not just following instructions.
• You take pride in getting things right, paying close attention to detail, and producing accurate, reliable results.
• You’re motivated to build real knowledge and develop a long‑term career in a laboratory environment.
• You thrive in a structured setting— you like clarity, routine, and knowing what good looks like.
• You’re patient, focused, and comfortable spending time on precise tasks, even when they’re repetitive.
• You take ownership of your learning, are open to feedback, and approach your work with a calm, methodical mindset.
• You’re just as happy working independently as you are contributing to a team.
• You’re excited by the idea of progressing within a lab setting— building your skills step by step and becoming a trusted expert over time.

Please note: You must be 18+ due to the nature of the working environment.

Apprenticeship Eligibility:

• Be 16 or over
• Not be in full‑time education
• Have lived in the UK for at least 3 years
• Have the right to work in the UK

If you’re unsure whether you meet the criteria, we’d still love to hear from you— get in touch and we can advise you further.

What your training will look like:

Start your career as a laboratory technician and gain hands‑on experience supporting real scientific work in a professional laboratory or technical environment. As part of this Level 3 Laboratory Technician apprenticeship, you’ll learn how to carry out tests, analyse data, and contribute to important projects, whether that’s in a laboratory or a more practical, site‑based environment. Over 20 months, you’ll combine day‑to‑day experience in your role with structured training delivered by expert tutors at Tiro. Our blended learning approach includes a mix of online sessions, in‑person training, and hands‑on support, alongside guidance from a dedicated mentor in the workplace. You’ll spend at least 6 hours per week on off‑the‑job training, including virtual learning, practical activities, and applied assignments.

What could your future look like?

This apprenticeship will help you build the skills and experience needed to start your career as a laboratory technician and progress within the industry. Through hands‑on training, you’ll develop the competence and confidence to carry out laboratory testing and take on increasing responsibility in your role. This programme can also lead to professional recognition, such as becoming a Registered Science Technician (RSciTech). You’ll gain experience that’s valued across a wide range of technical and scientific roles, opening up opportunities to grow and specialise in your chosen field. If you choose to continue your development, you may also have the opportunity to progress onto higher‑level qualifications, such as degree apprenticeships in Biology, Materials, or Chemistry.