Summary
This is a fantastic opportunity to start your career in a hands-on Technical Apprenticeship at Hillhead Quarry in Devon.
You’ll be working alongside experienced colleagues who will support you as you learn how construction materials are extracted, processed and quality-checked, gaining valuable experience in a busy quarry environment.
What you will do at work
This role is perfect for someone who enjoys practical work, problem-solving and being part of a team that plays an important role in producing the materials used to build our roads, buildings and communities.
You will gain real industry experience, a recognised qualification and the opportunity to build a long-term career in the construction materials industry.
- In this role, you’ll support the day-to-day operations of the quarry’s fixed plant equipment, helping to ensure materials are processed safely and meet the required quality standards.
- You’ll learn how to work safely in a busy quarry environment, following health and safety procedures and understanding how aggregates are extracted and processed.
- You’ll gain hands-on experience learning about the machinery and equipment used to process materials, including crushers, screens and conveyor systems.
- You’ll learn how materials are monitored and quality-checked, helping to maintain product standards and accurately record important information.
- You’ll support the team in identifying and reporting equipment or production issues, understanding how problems are resolved and helping to keep operations running safely and efficiently.
- You’ll work closely with experienced colleagues who will coach you as you develop your technical knowledge, practical skills and confidence within the industry.
Training
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.
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.
Requirements and skills
Skills
- Communication skills
- Attention to detail
- Problem solving skills
- Logical
- Team working
- Initiative
- Patience
Qualifications
- GCSE Maths, English and Science (4) – desired
About this employer
Holcim are leaders in supplying innovative, sustainable building solutions to the UK construction industry; building progress for people and the planet.
Since 1858, Holcim have helped shape the UK; powering the construction of homes and hospitals, roads and railways, schools and cities alike.
The mission is to make sustainable construction a reality, through purposeful action that tackles real carbon and climate challenges. Holcim are dedicated to helping Britain grow and thrive – by doing the right thing, doing it together, and making a difference.
After this apprenticeship
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.