Job description
As an R&D Apprentice, you'll spend time in all areas of our labs including: Product Development, Polymer Synthesis, Analytical, Colour and Technical Service. You will be working across the whole of our product range from Wall and Trim decorative coatings to speciality performance products and more.
Embark on a 4-year training programme in partnership with award winning Manchester MET University!
Using a mixture of on-the-job learning with university led distance learning, you'll spend 4 years working through various modules including organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, physical chemistry and much more. You'll also be very much part of the University Community, with planned social residential trips over the duration of the course.
Here are some of the other things you can look forward to:
- Testing new and innovative products, raw materials and technology concepts.
- Laboratory preparation of paint samples and full testing to specified requirements.
- Providing formulation and raw material support to the business.
- Reporting and interpretation of results, with initial recommendations to peers and the R&D management team.
- Developing knowledge of various test methods and an understanding of how to observe, record and interpret the results.
- Evaluating new raw materials and where appropriate, incorporate them into existing formulations.
- Market benchmarking.
- Gaining full training on how to use the relevant laboratory computer software and test equipment.
What will you need to be successful?
- Applicants should have a minimum of 104 UCAS points at A-level (grades BCC), or equivalent qualification with one being Chemistry or an equivalent scientific subject area
- We will evaluate any applicants who do not meet these requirements but have relevant workplace experience or other equivalent qualifications (eg BTEC diploma/extended diploma in a scientific field)
- Applicants also need GCSE Mathematics and English Language (grade A*-C / 9-4) or equivalent – or must complete Level 2 Functional Skills qualifications alongside the apprenticeship
- Unrestricted right to work in the UK and located within a daily commute to Darwen – required to be eligible for apprenticeship funding
Alongside our attractive base salary and excellent working environment, other benefits we offer include:
- Fully funded Level 6 in Laboratory Science Degree (BSC HONS in Chemical Science)
- 28 days basic annual leave (plus 8 bank holidays)
- Generous pension plan
- Discount on our products & vouchers online
- Many health & wellbeing benefits including a health cash plan
Interviews will be conducted onsite in Darwen w/c 12th June, with successful candidate appointed by 30th June to meet course enrolment deadlines.
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.