Laboratory technician
Level 3 · AdvancedHealth and science 2 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
A laboratory technician carries out scientific tests, maintains equipment, and supports researchers or quality teams in sectors including pharmaceuticals, food and drink, environmental science, and manufacturing. Apprentices develop core practical skills alongside an understanding of the science behind their work. The role leads to senior technician, quality assurance, or scientific officer positions.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Safe use of laboratory chemicals, equipment, and personal protective equipment
Scientific techniques relevant to your sector such as titration or chromatography
Quality standards including Good Laboratory Practice and ISO requirements
Accurate data recording, analysis, and scientific report writing
Calibration and routine maintenance of laboratory instruments
How to follow and contribute to standard operating procedures
Basic statistical methods for interpreting experimental results
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Prepare samples and reagents for routine and non-routine analyses
Carry out tests using appropriate instruments and record results accurately
Calibrate and perform basic maintenance on laboratory equipment
Follow standard operating procedures and highlight any deviations
Maintain a clean, organised, and safe laboratory environment
Produce accurate reports and contribute to quality documentation
Dispose of chemical and biological waste in line with regulations
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 3 (Advanced) - roughly A-level level. Employers usually look for some GCSEs (often English & maths around grade 4/C) or a Level 2 apprenticeship first. English & maths can sometimes be finished during training.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 4/5 (Higher) apprenticeship, or straight into the role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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