Chemistry Laboratory Technician – Level 3 Apprenticeship
AWE · On-Site
Why this role matters
Support practical science and radiation safety in a unique laboratory environment. Based within Defence Radiation Protection Services at Alverstoke, you’ll help prepare and test samples, use laboratory equipment and record and report results accurately.
£16,750 salary, increasing to £24,500 in Year 2 | 24-month apprenticeship plus 3-month End Point Assessment | 9-day working fortnight
Security clearance
You must be willing and able to obtain and maintain the security clearance required for the role and work in designated areas.
Location
Onsite at Alverstoke, Gosport, Hampshire
Key dates
Applications close: 8 November 2026 | Assessment centre: 19 January 2027 | Start date: 1 September 2027
What happens after you apply
1. Online application – Submit one apprenticeship application before the role closes.
2. Online testing – If eligible, you’ll complete numerical, verbal, logical and cognitive reasoning assessments. Practice materials will be available.
3. Assessment centre – Successful candidates will be invited to an assessment centre at Alverstoke, currently scheduled for 19 January 2027.
4. Offer, medical and clearance – If successful, you’ll move into the offer, occupational-health medical and security-clearance stages ahead of joining on 1 September 2027.
Applications close on 8 November 2026, but we review applications as they come in, so we strongly encourage you to apply early.
Perks & benefits
Skills required
Practical science: You enjoy experiments, hands-on learning and understanding how things work.
Attention to detail: You can follow procedures carefully and record results accurately.
Safety awareness: You take a responsible approach to protecting yourself, others and the environment.
Teamwork: You can communicate clearly, ask questions and learn from experienced colleagues.
Qualifications required
5 GCSEs at grade 4/C or above including English and Maths, plus Science at grade 6/B or above. Applicants must be British Nationals and aged 18 or over by 31 August 2027.
Training you'll get
This is an onsite laboratory-based apprenticeship. Being onsite means you can learn directly from experienced scientists and technicians, use specialist equipment safely and build confidence in a real laboratory environment.
Future prospects
After successfully completing your apprenticeship, you would move into a laboratory technician role within Defence Radiation Protection Services at Alverstoke, supporting scientific programmes and laboratory activities.
The essentials
Hours, commitment and the dates that matter.
Training provider
Delivers the training for this role and manages your application.
