At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Materials Laboratory team to sample, test, and report on construction materials.
- Company: Holcim, a leader in sustainable building solutions since 1858.
- Benefits: Earn £18,500/year, enjoy 25 days leave, and access free 24/7 GP services.
- Other info: Potential for full-time roles and further educational opportunities after the apprenticeship.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career with hands-on experience in a growing industry.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just bring enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.
The predicted salary is between 8000 - 10500 £ per month.
Department: Science Apprenticeship - Materials L3
Location: Leicester
Compensation: £18,500 / year
Description Location: East Midlands
Start Date: September 2026
Working for Holcim
Holcim are leaders in supplying innovative, sustainable building solutions to the UK construction industry; building progress for people and the planet. Since 1858, Holcim have helped shape the UK; powering the construction of homes and hospitals, roads and railways, schools and cities alike. The mission is to make sustainable construction a reality, through purposeful action that tackles real carbon and climate challenges. Holcim are dedicated to helping Britain grow and thrive - by doing the right thing, doing it together, and making a difference.
The Package
- Starting salary of £18,500 per year (increasing to National Minimum/Living wage after 12 months if applicable), plus bonus
- 25 days annual leave, plus bank holidays (with options to increase)
- 40 hours per week Monday to Friday (variable shift pattern)
- Saturday required but very infrequently
- Access to site vehicle (Manual operated)
- Enhanced family benefits, including maternity, paternity, and adoption leave
- Free 24/7 remote GP service for you and your household
What will I be doing as an apprentice?
This is a fantastic opportunity to start your career in a hands-on Technical Apprenticeship within our Materials Laboratory team. You’ll be based on site, working alongside experienced technicians who will support you as you learn how to sample, test and report on the quality of our sand, aggregates and bituminous products. This role is perfect for someone who enjoys practical work, problem solving and being part of a team that plays a key role in the products that shape our roads, buildings and communities.
You will gain real industry experience, a recognised qualification and the chance to build a long-term career in a growing and innovative sector. In this role, you will play an important part in making sure the materials we produce meet the highest quality and safety standards. You’ll learn how to work safely in a laboratory environment, follow clear testing procedures and understand how our products are used across major construction projects. You will get hands-on experience taking samples, carrying out tests on materials like sand, aggregates and bituminous products, and recording results using our laboratory systems. You will also learn how to spot and report any issues, help investigate early product concerns and support the team in keeping equipment well maintained and calibrated. You’ll work closely with experienced technicians who will coach you as you build your knowledge, develop your technical skills and start providing support to colleagues and customers.
What could the future look like?
When you join Holcim, 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, on-the-job training, you will develop new skills and gain the competence and responsibility required for materials testing and analysis. This apprenticeship serves as a stepping stone towards a rewarding career in materials science, with the added opportunity for the apprentice to become a registered Science Technician (RSci Tech). This programme opens up a variety of career pathways across industries including construction materials, civil engineering, geotechnical investigation, environmental consultancy, and infrastructure development, ensuring your materials science skills are in demand across multiple sectors. This apprenticeship can also help pave the way for further educational and professional advancement. You may choose to pursue higher-level qualifications through one of our Degree Apprenticeships such as a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Applied Materials Science.
About You
You will enjoy working in a practical environment and have a keen eye for detail, with a natural curiosity about how things work. You will be willing to learn, confident in asking questions, and take pride in following processes accurately and safely. You will also be comfortable using technology as part of your day-to-day work, and, most importantly, you will be motivated, reliable, and ready to develop your skills and knowledge.
Please note: due to the nature of the role, a manual driving license and access to your own car 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 upfront 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?
At Tiro we’re obsessed with changing lives through science and technology apprenticeships so we can’t wait to have you on board. 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 Materials Technician apprenticeship. You’ll be trained by an expert tutor from Tiro as well as an experienced mentor at Holcim 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
While we never want to hinder your job application process with obstacles, there are some minimum requirements you’ll need to meet in order to do an apprenticeship, these are rules set by the UK Government. 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.
Construction Materials Technician Apprentice (Level 3) - Holcim in Leicester employer: Tiro
Holcim is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Leicester where innovation meets sustainability. As a Construction Materials Technician Apprentice, you'll benefit from hands-on training alongside experienced professionals, with opportunities for career advancement and further education in materials science. With a strong commitment to employee well-being, including enhanced family benefits and a supportive culture, Holcim empowers you to build a meaningful career while contributing to impactful construction solutions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Construction Materials Technician Apprentice (Level 3) - Holcim in Leicester
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Holcim and their mission! Research their projects and values so you can show genuine interest during interviews. This will help us stand out as a candidate who truly aligns with their goals.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. This can give us insider info about the company culture and even lead to referrals, which can boost our chances of landing that apprenticeship.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for practical assessments! Since this role is hands-on, practice relevant skills like sampling and testing materials. We want to demonstrate our ability to follow procedures accurately and safely during any practical evaluations.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we can keep track of our application status and get updates directly from Holcim.
We think you need these skills to ace Construction Materials Technician Apprentice (Level 3) - Holcim in Leicester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Enthusiasm:When writing your application, let your passion for materials science and construction shine through. We want to see that you're genuinely excited about the opportunity to learn and grow in this field!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and interests align with the role. Mention specific aspects of the job description that resonate with you, so we know you’ve done your homework!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This will help us understand your qualifications and motivations quickly.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it reaches us directly and gives you a chance to showcase your interest in joining Holcim.
How to prepare for a job interview at Tiro
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the basics of materials science and the role of a Construction Materials Technician. Brush up on key concepts related to sand, aggregates, and bituminous products. This will show your genuine interest in the field and help you answer technical questions confidently.
✨Show Your Curiosity
During the interview, don’t hesitate to ask questions about the apprenticeship and the company. This demonstrates your eagerness to learn and engage with the team. Ask about the types of projects you might work on or how the team ensures quality and safety in their testing procedures.
✨Highlight Your Practical Skills
Since this role is hands-on, be ready to discuss any practical experiences you have, even if they are from school projects or hobbies. Talk about your problem-solving skills and how you enjoy working in a team. This will help the interviewers see you as a good fit for the collaborative environment at Holcim.
✨Be Yourself
Holcim values attitude and enthusiasm over experience, so let your personality shine through. Share your motivations for wanting to join the apprenticeship and how you plan to contribute to the team. Authenticity can make a lasting impression and set you apart from other candidates.
