Materials Engineering Technician Apprenticeship (Level 3) - Sika

We are pleased to offer a Materials Technician Apprenticeship within Sika’s Technical Services team. This apprenticeship provides hands-on experience in testing and evaluating adhesive technologies and their interaction with different materials across a wide range of industrial applications.

What will I be doing as an apprentice?

• Support the day-to-day running of the Technical Services laboratory, assisting with materials testing and report writing.
• Carry out testing on adhesive technologies with a variety of substrates, following standard procedures to ensure accurate and reliable results.
• Maintain a safe, organized laboratory environment, including equipment calibration and materials management.
• Record, monitor, and store test data and samples in line with quality and EHS standards.
• Develop knowledge of Sika products, adhesive applications, and testing methods through hands-on experience and training.
• Assist with technical enquiries and begin to contribute to problem-solving activities as skills develop.
• Work collaboratively with teams across Technical Services, Product Management, and Sales.
• Support customer visits and gain insight into how adhesive solutions are applied in manufacturing processes.
• Complete apprenticeship studies alongside practical training, working towards a recognised qualification.
• Build skills to progress into a technical or specialist role within Sika.

Skills, Knowledge, and Experience About You

This is a hands-on, practical role in a laboratory environment. You should be comfortable engaging in testing activities and handling a range of materials and equipment. You should be methodical and detail-focused, able to follow testing procedures, record accurate results, and identify issues. A curious mindset and willingness to learn will help you understand material behaviour and performance. You should have a strong awareness of health and safety and be able to follow laboratory and EHS procedures to ensure a safe working environment. You should be adaptable, able to work independently and as part of a team, and possess good communication skills as you will work closely with colleagues and contribute to shared tasks and outcomes. Enthusiasm, a proactive attitude, and genuine interest in developing technical skills within a supportive team are important.

Experience

We value attitude, curiosity, and commitment. Previous experience is helpful but not essential. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who are motivated to build a career in this field. You may be a school or college leaver, or someone looking to retrain. If you are enthusiastic, proactive, and willing to learn, you will fit in.

Qualifications

It’s about enthusiasm and potential. The most successful apprentices are driven to learn, open about what they know and don’t know, considerate, self-reflective, and eager to learn the role.

Programme structure

As part of this Level 3 Materials Technician apprenticeship, you’ll learn how to carry out tests, analyse data, and contribute to projects in a laboratory or site-based environment. The programme lasts over 20 months and combines day-to-day role experience with structured training delivered by expert tutors. You’ll spend at least 6 hours per week on off-the-job training, including virtual learning and practical activities, with a dedicated workplace mentor. Training look-and-feel: Structured programme with live sessions, online learning, and hands-on workplace training to build skills step by step.

Future opportunities

The apprenticeship can lead to progression within the industry, including potential recognition such as Registered Science Technician (RSciTech). You may continue to higher-level qualifications such as degree apprenticeships in Materials or Chemistry.

Eligibility

Minimum requirements include eligibility criteria defined by the UK Government for apprenticeships: you must demonstrate that the program will provide new knowledge and skills beyond current qualifications. If you already hold a Level 3, degree, or equivalent higher-level qualification, or have substantial relevant experience, you may not be eligible for apprenticeship funding. You must 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 meet these requirements, indicate your interest and we will be in touch to discuss further.