Apprentice Process Technician

Pharmaron; Cramlington; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 24,000; Full time

Job summary

Pharmaron is seeking an Apprentice Shift Process Technician to support API manufacturing on site. The role includes operating and monitoring processes, with a funded qualification provided.

You will perform batch processing, cleaning, documentation, and maintenance tasks, ensuring GMP compliance and audit readiness. This apprenticeship offers hands-on experience in a high-hazard environment and a clear development path in manufacturing.

Qualifications

• GCSEs with at least a C in English, Maths, Chemistry or Physics.
• Awareness of risk management and Safe Systems of Work.
• Understanding of quality systems and cGMP.
• Experience in high hazard environments preferred.
• Experience following batch manufacturing instructions/procedures with strict controls.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor API manufacturing processes using DCS and manual controls.
• Adhere to EHS policies, SOPs and GMP standards for safe operations.
• Conduct batch processing, equipment cleaning, and waste management.
• Maintain accurate process documentation for audits.
• Perform first-line maintenance and basic troubleshooting.
• Support risk assessments, permits to work, and emergency response.
• Collaborate on updating procedures and batch records.
• Carry out quality checks and report deviations promptly.

Skills

GMP/compliance awareness

Process monitoring

Safety and risk awareness

Education

GCSE English/Maths/Science (C or above)

Knowledge of risk management & Safe Systems of Work

Understanding of quality systems & cGMP

Experience in high-hazard environments

Experience following batch instructions/procedures

Job description

Position:Apprentice Process Technician (Shift)

Pharmaron is a global CRO helping pharma and biotech companies bring new therapies to life. With over 25,000 employees worldwide across 28 locations in the US, UK and China, we support drug discovery through to manufacturing with fully integrated, high-quality services.

We’re proud of the impact we make and just last year, we supported over 780 discovery projects, 1,000+ CMC programmes, and 1,000+ clinical trials across all phases. Our teams are involved in everything from small molecules to biologics and gene therapies, and we work with more than 3,000 global customers. To learn more, visit www.pharmaron.com.

About the Role

Pharmaron is currently looking to recruit a new Apprentice Shift Process Technicians.

As part of the role there will be a funded qualification.

This role is to perform and support activities that facilitate the compliant operation of the site manufacturing process trains in accordance with the site production plan to deliver Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) manufacture on time.

Key roles and responsibilities:

• Operate and monitor API manufacturing processes using DCS and manual controls in line with production plans.
• Adhere to all EHS policies, SOPs, and GMP standards, ensuring safe and compliant operations.
• Conduct batch processing, equipment cleaning, commissioning, and waste stream management.
• Maintain accurate and timely process documentation to meet cGMP and audit readiness requirements.
• Perform first-line maintenance, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis for process issues.
• Support risk assessments (HAZOP, LOPA), permit to work systems, and emergency response activities.
• Collaborate on developing and updating operational procedures and batch records.
• Carry out quality checks and lab analyses as required, reporting deviations or incidents promptly.

Candidate Profile

Education:

• GCSE level C or above in English, Maths, Chemistry or physics
• Knowledge of risk management and Safe Systems of work
• Appreciation of quality systems and cGMP
• Experience of working in a high hazard environment
• Experience of following batch manufacturing instructions / procedures and adherence to strict control parameters

Why Pharmaron?

Collaborative Culture: Thrive in our inclusive and collaborative environment, where teamwork and innovation go hand in hand. Here, your voice matters, and your contributions make a real impact. "Employees Number One" and "Clients Centered" are the core cultural values at Pharmaron. Our culture, which sets Pharmaron apart from other organizations, has evolved from our deep commitment to our employees, partners and collaborators.

Pharmaron is a premier service provider for the life sciences industry. Founded in 2004, Pharmaron has invested in its people and facilities and established a broad spectrum of research, development, and manufacturing service capabilities throughout the entire drug discovery, preclinical, and clinical development process across multiple therapeutic modalities, including small molecules, biologics, and CGT products. With over 25,000 employees and operations in the U.S., the U.K. and China. Pharmaron has an excellent track record in delivering R&D solutions to its partners in North America, Europe, Japan, and China.

• Job Category Manufacturing & Production (Production)