Are you passionate about science and eager to kickstart your career in a world‑class laboratory environment? Join BASF PLC in Widnes as a Level 3 Laboratory Technician Apprentice and become part of a team that plays a vital role in the production of rodenticides.
Hours: Monday – Thursday, 08:00 – 16:50 (8 h); Friday, 08:00 – 13:20 (6 h). 38 hours a week. Duration: 2 years 3 months.
Work
Most of your apprenticeship is spent working. You’ll learn on the job by getting hands‑on experience.
What you’ll do at work
In this hands‑on role, you’ll gain experience in sample preparation, testing, data recording, and quality control – all while working with high‑end precision equipment.
You’ll be supported through structured training and development as part of your apprenticeship, with opportunities to contribute to real‑world projects and continuous improvement initiatives.
Core role responsibilities
* Sample Preparation: prepare samples for testing, ensuring accuracy and consistency
* Testing and Analysis: conduct routine tests and analyses under supervision, following established protocols and procedures
* Data Recording: accurately record and report test results, maintaining detailed and organized records
* Safety Compliance: adhere to all safety guidelines and protocols, ensuring a safe working environment
* Quality Control: participate in quality control processes to ensure the reliability and accuracy of test results
* Training and Development: engage in training sessions and complete coursework as part of the apprenticeship program
Where you’ll work
6 Oldgate
Widnes
WA8 8TJ
Training
Apprenticeships include time away from working for specialist training. You’ll study to gain professional knowledge and skills.
* Comply with health and safety policies and procedures including HASWA, COSHH, risk assessments, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), manual handling, emergency procedures
* Maintain excellent housekeeping, in accordance with organisation standard procedures
* Order and control stocks of laboratory materials where required
* Identify, organise and use resources effectively to complete tasks applying the concepts of resource efficiency (e.g. energy, water and waste)
* Adhere to internal and external regulatory requirements (e.g. GLP, GMP, GDP)
* Prepare for and perform laboratory experiments, tests or tasks following any specified methodologies to provide reliable, accurate data (e.g. weighing, pipetting, filtering, spectroscopic techniques, chromatography techniques)
* Demonstrate technical competence in the use of specified instruments and equipment
* Report faults and seek diagnostic advice to maintain equipment in good working order, including calibration where required
* Complete documentation proficiently; keep accurate records of laboratory work and results; contribute to the preparation of reports
* Use simple statistical techniques for data presentation and evaluation (e.g. calculation of median and standard deviation, production of graphs)
* Demonstrate problem‑solving techniques, including identification of sources of error and how they can be reduced (e.g. human error)
* Use standard software packages and applications (e.g. Microsoft Office suite); use Laboratory Information Management systems to support your work
* Address non‑routine problems with samples and instrumentation, within defined areas
* Identify relevant information from scientific sources (e.g. supervisors, literature) in order to contribute to solutions
* Participate in continuous performance improvement of systems and processes relevant to the work environment (e.g. workplace organisation techniques, accreditation (e.g. ISO, UKAS) and proficiency testing)
* Evaluate data, recognise and call attention to anomalous or unusual results
Remote with intervention led by reviewer
Requirements
* GCSE in Maths (grade 4)
* GCSE in Science (grade 4)
Share if you have other relevant qualifications and industry experience. The apprenticeship can be adjusted to reflect what you already know.
Skills
* Eagerness to learn
* Ability to follow instructions and protocols
* Understanding of laboratory equipment
Other requirements
The successful candidate may be required to work some shifts after their first year to cover for absences on the team (e.g. holiday cover and sickness), by prior arrangement.
About this employer
The Widnes site is our global pest control solutions production facility for rodenticides. On site we manufacture the strongest portfolio of research‑based rodent control products for professional pest controllers and farmers around the world. Significant investment in the premises, processes and machinery ensures continued production of the highest quality products with proven effectiveness, providing excellent control solutions for the customer.
After this apprenticeship
* EHSQ Manager
Contact
ST HELENS COLLEGE
appenquiry@sthelens.ac.uk
01744 623521
The reference code for this apprenticeship is VAC2000031827.
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