Junior Scientist Apprentice

NPL; Teddington; On-site; GBP 22,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

A renowned scientific institution in Teddington is offering a Junior Measurement Apprenticeship for those eager to begin a career in measurement science. As an apprentice, you will support scientists, attend training, and work on real projects, gaining invaluable skills while pursuing a Level 3 Metrology Technician qualification. A competitive starting salary of £22,200 per annum is offered, increasing annually throughout the apprenticeship. Candidates must submit a CV and application form by the closing date, followed by interviews and assessments.

Benefits

Exposure to cutting-edge technologies

Mentoring from seasoned professionals

Soft skills development training

Qualifications

• No prior experience required, but enthusiasm for learning is essential.
• Applicants should be keen to work alongside professionals in a laboratory environment.

Responsibilities

• Attend training sessions and block learning weeks to enhance technical skills.
• Work on projects within the assigned Science Group.
• Assist in team meetings and STEM outreach activities.

Skills

Team working

Communication skills

Time management

Education

Level 3 Metrology Technician Apprenticeship

Job description

Looking to take your first step into a career that makes a real impact in science?

The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) are looking to hire Junior Measurement Apprentices to join our science departments. NPL helps set the standards by which everything is measured – combating global issues such as climate change, curing diseases and developing cutting-edge communications technology. At NPL, our apprentices are making their mark and getting involved in real projects, whilst developing invaluable skills and experience.

Why chose an apprenticeship with NPL?

As a Junior Measurement Apprentice, you will build your knowledge in the science of measurement, which is at the heart of all science and engineering. From day one, you’ll contribute to projects that ensure accuracy and reliability in measurement services, which are central to NPL’s mission. Working alongside leading experts, you’ll gain hands‑on experience in applying scientific principles to real-world challenges, supported by structured learning and guidance to build your technical expertise.

A wide mix of training is provided for the duration of the apprenticeship, combining the daily tasks in the science groups where the apprentice is based, formal off-the-job training and the opportunity to practise new skills in a real work environment. 30 days per year of training at NPL will form the core of the off-the-job training. It is organised into 6 compulsory blocks per year, each of five days duration in Teddington. Further off-the-job training will then be built into your workplace activities. This could include online learning, or tasks set by NPL tutors for completion in the workplace. Our aim is to help you be self-assured in the workplace from day one; through additional training you will learn how to communicate effectively, how to manage your time, and how to work as part of a team.

What your day to day will look like:

As an apprentice, you will support our Scientists with a range of measurement tasks, laboratory duties and scientific research and will undertake a work-based training programme including off the job training and development. Your role responsibilities will include:

• Attending training sessions and block learning weeks to expand your technical skillset
• Working on projects within the assigned Science Group
• Contributing to team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and project discussions
• Involving in NPL Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Outreach activities.

What we can offer you:

• A comprehensive programme designed to provide a solid foundation in measurement science, while studying to complete an Level 3 Metrology Technician Apprenticeship over three years
• Exposure to cutting-edge technologies and industry-leading practices
• Mentoring from seasoned professionals who are passionate about sharing their expertise
• Personal and professional growth opportunities, continuous learning and development
• Soft skills development training – you will have an opportunity to improve your communication skills, time management, team working and presentation skills
• A starting salary of £22,200 per annum, with a salary increase each September throughout your apprenticeship.

About the process:

• Submit your CV with application form, explaining what attracts you to the NPL Junior Measurement Apprenticeship programme by the closing date
• Telephone interview with our Talent Acquisition team
• If you are selected, you’ll attend an assessment centre, which will be held at our Teddington site in Spring 2026

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