Description
Location: Unit 11 Matts Lodge Farm, Grooms Lane, Creaton, Northampton, NN6 8NN
Expected Start Date: ASAP
Working for CE Geotech
CE Geotech Ltd is a leading geotechnical solutions provider specialising in the assessment, testing and validation of soils for ground engineering and earthworks projects. Working across the construction and civil engineering sectors, they support clients throughout the entire project lifecycle, from initial site investigations and laboratory testing through to on-site control and validation testing.
With a reputation for delivering high-quality technical expertise and innovative solutions, CE Geotech helps clients overcome complex ground engineering challenges while maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety.
We now have a fantastic opportunity to join CE Geotech as a Laboratory Based Materials Technician Apprentice. Whether based in the laboratory or out on site, you'll play an important role in supporting ground engineering projects while gaining valuable industry experience and a nationally recognised qualification through our training partner, Tiro.
Find out more by visiting their website below:
đź”— CE Geotech
The Package
* Starting salary of ÂŁ19,000 per year (increasing to National Minimum/Living Wage after 12 months)
* 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
* Workings hours are 40 hours per week, 8am - 5pm Mon - Friday (potential for weekend overtime)
* Regular training and CPD opportunities
Key Responsibilities
As a Laboratory-Based Materials Technician Apprentice, you'll support the testing and analysis of geotechnical construction materials within a UKAS-accredited laboratory environment. Working alongside experienced technicians and engineers, you'll prepare samples, carry out a range of laboratory tests, record and analyse data, and help ensure materials meet the required quality standards.
You'll be responsible for identifying any deviations from testing procedures, reporting issues and supporting investigations to maintain the accuracy and integrity of results.
Responsibilities will include:
* Preparing and testing soil, aggregate and other construction material samples in accordance with UKAS-accredited procedures.
* Operating laboratory equipment and testing machinery safely and effectively.
* Recording test results and maintaining accurate, up-to-date records using the company's KeyLAB system.
* Assisting with the analysis and interpretation of test data to support client projects.
* Supporting the preparation of technical reports and test documentation.
* Ensuring all work is completed in line with company quality procedures, health and safety requirements and UKAS standards.
* Maintaining laboratory equipment and helping to keep the laboratory organised, safe and efficient.
* Working closely with colleagues to ensure testing programmes are completed accurately and within agreed timescales.
* Supporting site-based activities when required to gain a broader understanding of materials testing and geotechnical engineering.
About You
You’re naturally curious about how materials behave and enjoy understanding why they perform the way they do, not just following instructions. You take pride in getting things right, paying close attention to detail, and producing accurate, reliable results. Whether you’ve explored science before or are just starting out, you’re motivated to build real knowledge and develop a long-term career in a materials testing laboratory.
You’re someone who thrives in a structured setting. You like clarity, routine, and knowing what good looks like. Following standardised test methods, working with laboratory equipment, and carefully preparing samples and recording data feels satisfying rather than restrictive. You’re patient, focused, and comfortable repeating precise tasks because you understand that consistency and accuracy are essential for high-quality results.
You take safety, quality standards, and laboratory procedures seriously, and you approach your work with a calm, methodical mindset. You’re just as comfortable working independently as you are communicating clearly with colleagues, supervisors, and engineers. You’re motivated by analysing results, understanding why materials pass or fail, and progressing over time, building your skills step by step and becoming a trusted expert in materials testing.
Please note: You must be 18+ due to the nature of the working environment
Apprenticeship Eligibility
To apply for this apprenticeship, you must:
✔️ Be 16 or over
✔️ Not be in full-time education
✔️ Have lived in the UK for at least 3 years
✔️ Have the right to work in the UK
Apprenticeships are designed to provide new knowledge, skills and behaviours, so applicants should not already hold a Level 3, degree or higher qualification in a closely related subject, or have significant experience in the same field.
If you’re unsure whether you meet the criteria, we’d still love to hear from you - get in touch and we can advise you further.
So how does the apprenticeship work?
Start your career as a materials technician and gain hands-on experience supporting real testing and analysis in a laboratory or technical environment.
As part of this Level 3 Materials Technician apprenticeship, you’ll learn how to carry out tests, analyse data, and contribute to important projects, whether that’s in a laboratory or a more practical, site-based environment.
👉 Learn more about the programme here.
Over 20 months, you’ll combine day-to-day experience in your role with structured training delivered by expert tutors at Tiro. Our blended learning approach includes a mix of online sessions, in-person training, and hands-on support, alongside guidance from a dedicated mentor in the workplace.
You’ll spend at least 6 hours per week on off-the-job training, including virtual learning, practical activities, and applied assignments.
What your training will look like:You’ll follow a structured programme combining live sessions, online learning, and hands-on workplace training to build your skills step by step.
What could your future look like?
This apprenticeship will help you build the skills and experience needed to start your career as a materials technician and progress within the industry.
Through hands-on training, you’ll develop the competence and confidence to carry out laboratory testing and take on increasing responsibility in your role. This programme can also lead to professional recognition, such as becoming a Registered Science Technician (RSciTech).
You’ll gain experience that’s valued across a wide range of technical and scientific roles, opening up opportunities to grow and specialise in your chosen field.
If you choose to continue your development, you may also have the opportunity to progress onto higher-level qualifications, such as degree apprenticeships in Materials or Chemistry.
We’re Tiro (pronounced Tea-ro — white, two sugars).
In Latin, it means novice, recruit, apprentice, beginner, and soldier — the perfect name for a company that’s been helping fearless apprentices join ambitious businesses since 2005.
We believe great apprenticeships help everyone. There are remarkable apprentices out there just waiting to be found, and fantastic employers waiting to nurture them.
We’re proud to help connect the two — supporting industries that make, test, and innovate; from polymer manufacturing and materials science to sustainable engineering and advanced technology.
At Tiro, we make great things happen for people.
And that starts with you.