Overview
Department: Science Apprenticeship - Polymer Processing Technician L3
Location: Leyland
Compensation: £7.55 - £12.21 / hour
Location: Unit 1A & B, Leyland Business Park, Centurion Way, Farington, Leyland, Lancashire, PR25 3GR
Working for: DLR Elastomer Engineering
DLR Elastomer Engineering is a UK-based manufacturer specialising in high-performance rubber and polyurethane products. The company delivers a wide range of engineered solutions to industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, and food processing. Their services include the production of rubber sheeting, custom-moulded components, polyurethane castings, and rubber fabrications. These products are used in demanding environments where durability and precision are essential. The company is known for its technical expertise and innovation, offering bespoke solutions and sustainable developments, and is a member of the Made in Britain initiative.
The Package
* Starting hourly rate of £7.55 - £12.21 (depending on age)
* 37.5 hours per week
* Working hours: 7:30am – 4:00pm
* 25 days annual leave, plus bank holidays
* Company Pension Scheme
What will I be doing as a Polymer Processing Operative Apprentice?
As a Polymer Processing Operative Apprentice at DLR Elastomer Engineering, you will play a key role in producing high-quality rubber and polyurethane products for a range of industries including aerospace, oil and gas, and pharmaceuticals.
Responsibilities include:
* Supporting continuous improvement activities across rubber moulding, sheeting, polyurethane casting, and fabrication processes
* Assisting with tool preparation and maintenance, including cleaning, trimming, and mould tool management
* Operating key machinery such as rubber moulding presses, roller mills, calendars, and curing equipment (e.g. RotaCure, autoclaves)
* Preparing and bonding materials through cutting, weighing, blasting, cleaning, and painting
* Carrying out polyurethane dosing, casting, demoulding, and finishing tasks
* Recording manufacturing data accurately and contributing to quality control and root cause analysis activities
* Monitoring material usage and supporting stock control and stock taking as required
* Working with other departments, including Quality and Operations, to ensure products meet required specifications
* Participating in health and safety, quality, and continuous improvement initiatives to maintain high operational standards
This apprenticeship offers hands-on training in a dynamic manufacturing environment, helping you develop a wide skillset in polymer processing while supporting the innovation and growth of a leading UK rubber engineering firm.
What could the future look like?
There’s no limit to what you can achieve while working with DLR Elastomer Engineering. The team is central to the company’s work, and they are looking for someone who wants to play a key part in the long term. A successful applicant may secure a full-time position with the business at the end of the apprenticeship.
Through practical on-the-job training, you’ll develop the skills and knowledge needed to become a competent Polymer Processing Operative, gaining expertise in polymer materials, processing techniques, and quality assurance. This apprenticeship provides a solid foundation for a future in polymer processing, helping to ensure the efficiency, quality, and sustainability of manufacturing operations. It also offers opportunities for professional growth toward more specialized technical roles or leadership positions within the company.
Skills, Knowledge, and Experience
About You
* A strong enthusiasm for hands-on manufacturing and polymer processing, with a genuine interest in how rubber and polyurethane products are made and applied across industries
* The ability to communicate clearly with colleagues and supervisors to support efficient workflows across moulding, sheeting, casting, and fabrication areas
* A practical mindset with the ability to follow instructions, manage time effectively, and adapt to changing tasks in a busy production environment
* A positive attitude toward learning, with a willingness to get involved in a range of equipment and processes to develop skills in material preparation, machine operation, and quality control
Experience
Whilst previous experience is helpful, we’re looking for the right attitude and aptitude to fit in at DLR Elastomer Engineering.
Qualifications
It’s about enthusiasm, not school results. The most successful apprentices are those driven to learn, who are up front about what they know and don’t know, and who are collaborative and self-reflective.
So how does the apprenticeship work?
Over 24 months, you’ll devote a minimum of 6 hours per week to off-the-job training. This includes theory training (virtual lessons and online learning) and practical training (shadowing, mentoring, and time spent writing assignments). This will count towards a Level 3 Polymer Processing Technician apprenticeship. You’ll be trained by an expert tutor from Tiro and an experienced mentor at DLR Elastomer Engineering to develop the knowledge, skills, and work habits needed to succeed.
The apprenticeship is hands-on, offering experiences you might not encounter in university or college, while you earn a salary and avoid student loan debt.
Eligibility
Minimum requirements as set by the UK Government apply. Applicants should 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, or substantial relevant experience, you may not be eligible for apprenticeship funding. 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 yet meet these requirements, express your interest and we’ll discuss next steps.
#J-18808-Ljbffr