Heidelberg Materials UK (formerly Hanson UK) is one of the UK's largest suppliers of construction materials, employing over 4,000 people and operating around 300 manufacturing sites in the UK.
We are committed to building a more sustainable future and recognise that a diverse workforce is key to our growth and development. We aim to foster a culture that values openness, transparency and individual achievement.
Apprentice Laboratory Technician
Location: Chipping Sodbury
Department: Technical
Contract Type: Apprenticeship
About the Role
We are looking for a motivated and detail‑driven Apprentice Laboratory Technician to join our Technical team in Chipping Sodbury. This role involves supporting laboratory‑based specimen preparation and testing for Concrete, Asphalt and Quarry products, working to recognised EN and British Standards as well as company procedures.
At Heidelberg Materials UK, we are committed to delivering industry‑leading levels of customer satisfaction through continuous improvement of our products and technical services. You will contribute to this by helping maintain our comprehensive quality management programme and ensuring consistent, high‑quality results.
This is a hands‑on, repetitive role that requires an excellent eye for detail, accuracy, and a commitment to safe working practices. Throughout your apprenticeship, you will follow a structured learning programme with an approved apprenticeship provider—so motivation, curiosity and a proactive approach to learning are essential.
Key Responsibilities
* Support the technical team in delivering cost‑effective product manufacture
* Prepare and test materials to agreed standards and procedures
* Help maintain product quality in line with operational, commercial and customer requirements
* Provide high‑quality technical support for internal and external stakeholders
* Carry out tasks safely, accurately and efficiently with strong attention to detail
* Complete any additional duties as required by your manager
About You
To be successful in this role, you will:
* Have an excellent eye for detail, with the ability to work accurately and consistently
* Be comfortable performing repetitive tasks to a high standard
* Show enthusiasm for learning laboratory and testing processes
* Demonstrate good organisational skills and a proactive mindset
* Be a reliable team player, committed to developing your technical knowledge
Education & Qualifications
* 5 GCSEs at Grade 4–9 (or equivalent), including Maths and English
What We Offer
* A structured apprenticeship training programme
* Support from an experienced and friendly technical team
* Comprehensive on‑the‑job learning in a specialist testing environment
* Opportunities to develop long‑term technical and laboratory skills
What's on Offer
Employer of Choice:
Armed Forces Covenant (Silver) / Disability Confident Committed / The 5% Club (Platinum) / Mates in Mind / Clear Assured (Foundation) / MPQC / STEM Ambassador
Compensation Package:
Bonus incentives / Generous Pension Schemes / Life Assurance
Work–Life Balance:
27 days holiday (excluding bank holidays) / Agile and flexible working options / Holiday purchase scheme / Sabbatical opportunities
Family-Friendly Policies:
Enhanced Maternity, Paternity and Parental Leave / Neonatal Leave / Adoption / IVF / Menopause support
Social Value and Inclusion:
Paid annual Volunteering Day / Employee Communities (LGBTQ+, Network of Women, Women in Science & Engineering, Armed Forces)
Wellbeing:
Employee Assistance Programme / Mental Health First Aiders / Cycle to Work scheme / Employee benefits portal with gym discounts / Free eye tests / Discounted private medical cover