Laboratory Technician Apprentice (Level 3) - The FPA

Tiro; Blockley; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 24,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension - up to 10% company

Private Medical Insurance

Employee Assistance Programme

Regular training & CPD opportunities

Job summary

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) invites applications for a Laboratory Technician Apprentice (Level 3) in Blockley, Gloucestershire. This 20-month Level 3 apprenticeship offers hands-on experience in fire testing within the Fire Testing Laboratory, with structured training and mentorship.

You’ll gain practical skills, learn to carry out tests and analyse data, and work toward professional recognition such as RSciTech. The role requires 18+ and a commitment to learning and safety.

Qualifications

• Be 18 or over
• Not be in full-time education
• Have lived in the UK for at least 3 years
• Have the right to work in the UK

Responsibilities

• Carefully check and record details of test samples before testing begins
• Take part in fire resistance tests to support smooth, efficient operations
• Keep accurate records of test results and ensure all documents are completed correctly
• Operate equipment and machinery, including forklifts, once appropriately trained and authorised
• Follow standard procedures and safety guidelines
• Communicate clearly with clients when answering technical questions (training will support you)
• Help maintain a safe working environment during fire tests and in the laboratory
• Assist with deliveries, checking that materials and equipment are correct and undamaged
• Follow all safety procedures and report any issues or near misses immediately
• Quickly flag any problems or errors to the Fire Resistance Manager to avoid delays in the testing process

Job description

Laboratory Technician Apprentice (Level 3) - The FPA

Department: Science Apprenticeship - Materials L6

Employment Type: Apprentice

Location: Blockley

Compensation: £22,000 / year

Description

Location: Northcot Business Park, Blockley, Gloucestershire, GL56 9LH

Working for the FPA

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) is the UK's national fire safety organisation, working to identify fire hazards and help businesses reduce fire-related risks. Through its specialist knowledge, research and testing, the FPA plays an important role in improving fire safety and protecting people, buildings and businesses. Its dedicated team takes pride in making a meaningful difference, making it a great place to start a career in fire safety.

As a Laboratory Technician Apprentice, you'll join the Fire Testing Laboratory, helping carry out fire resistance tests while gaining valuable hands-on experience. You'll work alongside experienced colleagues, develop practical laboratory skills and learn how fire testing helps make buildings safer.

You can find out more about the FPA here: Website

The Package

• Salary up to £22,000 per annum
• Salary increase upon successful completion of apprenticeship
• Working hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00am - 4:00pm
• 35 hours per week
• 24 days annual leave + bank holidays
• Additional 3 days of leave, with company closure at Christmas
• Pension - up to 10% company contribution
• Optional Private Medical Insurance
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Regular training & CPD opportunities

Key Responsibilities

Working under the supervision of the Fire Resistance Manager, you will:

• Carefully check and record details of test samples before testing begins
• Take part in fire resistance tests to support smooth, efficient operations
• Keep accurate records of test results and ensure all documents are completed correctly
• Operate equipment and machinery, including forklifts, once appropriately trained and authorised
• Follow standard procedures and safety guidelines
• Communicate clearly with clients when answering technical questions (training will support you with this)
• Help maintain a safe working environment during fire tests and in the laboratory
• Assist with deliveries, checking that materials and equipment are correct and undamaged
• Follow all safety procedures and report any issues or near misses immediately
• Quickly flag any problems or errors to the Fire Resistance Manager to avoid delays in the testing process

About You

This is a hands-on, practical role, so you'll enjoy trying new things, getting stuck in and taking on different challenges each day.

You’ll have excellent attention to detail, with the ability to spot problems, identify defects and record observations accurately. You’ll be able to think on your feet, follow instructions carefully and understand the importance of health and safety.

You’ll enjoy working as part of a team, communicating clearly and supporting colleagues. Most importantly, you’ll bring plenty of enthusiasm, a positive attitude and a genuine willingness to learn.

Please note, due to the nature of this position and remote location, you must be aged 18+, and hold a full UK driving licence with access to your own car.

Before applying, please check your commute! You must be able to reliably commute to the FPA within 45 minutes.

Apprenticeship Eligibility

• Be 18 or over
• Not be in full-time education
• Have lived in the UK for at least 3 years
• Have the right to work in the UK

Apprenticeships are designed to provide new knowledge, skills and behaviours, so applicants should not already hold a Level 3, degree or higher qualification in a closely related subject, or have significant experience in the same field.

If you’re unsure whether you meet the criteria, we’d still love to hear from you - get in touch and we can advise you further.

So how does the apprenticeship work?

Start your career as a laboratory technician and gain hands-on experience supporting real scientific work in a professional laboratory or technical environment.

As part of this Level 3 Laboratory 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.

Learn more about the programme here. 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.

What could your future look like? This apprenticeship will help you build the skills and experience needed to start your career as a laboratory 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 Biology, Materials, or Chemistry.