Summary
We are looking for a motivated and enthusiastic Laboratory Technician Apprentice to join our Quality Control and Colour Development Laboratory. This is an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on experience within a busy laboratory environment while working towards a Level 3 Polymer Processing Technician Apprenticeship.
What you will do at work
You will support both the Quality Control (QC) and Research & Development (R&D) teams, helping to test products, assess colour accuracy, carry out laboratory activities and maintain high quality standards. This role is ideal for someone with a genuine interest in science, manufacturing, product development and innovation.
As part of your apprenticeship, your duties will include:
- Conducting visual and instrumental colour assessments to ensure products meet customer and quality standards.
- Testing production batches for colour shade, strength and consistency.
- Recording and maintaining accurate laboratory results and documentation.
- Monitoring production samples and reporting any out-of-specification results.
- Supporting continuous improvement activities within the laboratory.
- Assisting with colour matching and formulation development projects.
- Working closely with production and technical teams to resolve quality issues.
- Maintaining laboratory equipment and ensuring the laboratory is kept clean, organised and safe.
- Supporting product development activities and evaluating materials and processes.
- Following laboratory procedures, health and safety requirements and quality standards at all times.
Training
An apprenticeship includes regular training with a college or other training organisation. Off-the-job training will follow the time allocations outlined in the Occupational Standard.
Requirements and skills
Skills
- Communication skills
- Attention to detail
- Organisation skills
- Problem solving skills
- Number skills
- Team working
- Basic IT
- Positive attidtude
Qualifications
- GCSE English (4/C or above) – essential
- GCSE Maths (4/C or above) – essential
- GCSE Science (4/C or above) – essential
- A Level Science (Pass) – desired
- BTEC Engineering (Pass) – desired
About this employer
Prisma Colour Limited is a leading global supplier of colour concentrates and additives to the thermoplastics, rubber, silicone and surface coatings industries, supplying customers in over 55 countries worldwide.
After this apprenticeship
Successful completion of the apprenticeship may lead to a permanent position within Prisma Colour’s technical team, with opportunities to progress into Quality Control, Product Development, Research & Development, Colour Matching or other specialist technical roles.
Things to consider
Desired Skills and Personal Qualities
Essential
- Good numeracy and literacy skills.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Good communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Basic IT skills, including Microsoft Office.
- Ability to follow instructions, procedures and laboratory methods accurately.
- Ability to keep accurate records and data.
- Reliable, punctual and well organised.
- Positive attitude and willingness to learn.
- Able to work independently and as part of a team.
- Strong problem-solving skills and curiosity to understand how products and processes work.
- Able to work safely and follow laboratory procedures.
Important - Excellent colour vision is essential due to the visual colour assessment requirements of the role.
Desirable
- Interest in chemistry, materials science, plastics, polymers, coatings, colour technology or manufacturing.
- Previous experience in a laboratory, manufacturing or technical environment.
- Experience using laboratory equipment or carrying out practical scientific experiments.
- Interest in product development and innovation.