Construction Materials Technician Apprentice (Level 3)
AGGREGATE INDUSTRIES UK LIMITED · Unit 3, Europa Way, Sheffield, S9 1TQ · £18,500 per year
Advertised: £18,500 a year
Closing date: 20 Nov 2026
No two days are ever the same with Holcim. You’ll not only spend time between testing on site and testing in the lab, but you’ll also visit and work at several locations nearby – a great opportunity to meet others to aid professional progression and skill sharing.
The role: This is a fantastic opportunity to start your career in a hands on Technical Apprenticeship within our Materials Laboratory team. You’ll be based on site, working alongside experienced technicians who will support you as you learn how to sample, test and report on the quality of our sand, aggregates and bituminous products. This role is perfect for someone who enjoys practical work, problem solving and being part of a team that plays a key role in the products that shape our roads, buildings and communities. You will gain real industry experience, a recognised qualification and the chance to build a long term career in a growing and innovative sector. In this role, you will play an important part in making sure the materials we produce meet the highest quality and safety standards. You’ll learn how to work safely in a laboratory environment, follow clear testing procedures and understand how our products are used across major construction projects. You will get hands on experience taking samples, carrying out tests on materials like sand, aggregates and bituminous products, and recording results using our laboratory systems. You will also learn how to spot and report any issues, help investigate early product concerns and support the team in keeping equipment well maintained and calibrated. You’ll work closely with experienced technicians who will coach you as you build your knowledge, develop your technical skills and start providing support to colleagues and customers.
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.
After the 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.
Working week: Monday to Friday (variable shift pattern). Shifts to be confirmed.
Pay information: £18,500 a year
Training provider: TIRO TRAINING LTD
Training course: Laboratory technician (level 3)
Apprenticeship level: 3
Hours per week: 40
Positions available: 1
Duration: 1 Year 8 Months
Expected start: 9 September 2027
Skills: Communication skills, Attention to detail, Problem solving skills, Logical, Team working, Initiative, Patience
Qualification: Desired · GCSE · Maths, English and Science · 4
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