Processing Technician Apprentice (Level 3) - Aylesbury Granulation

Tiro; Aylesbury; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 24,000; Full time

Job summary

A reputable training provider is offering an apprenticeship in Polymer Processing Technician in Aylesbury. The role involves operating machinery, monitoring production, and ensures the safe handling of materials. Ideal candidates will have strong work ethics and be physically capable of manual tasks. This apprenticeship offers pathways to future roles in the polymer manufacturing industry, with a competitive salary of £21,000 - £24,000 per year.

Benefits

Regular training and CPD opportunities

Clear pathway to future roles

On-site parking

Qualifications

• Motivated and reliable individual.
• Must be over 18 years old.
• No essential prior experience needed but beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Operate recycling machinery safely.
• Feed plastic waste onto conveyors.
• Monitor machinery and perform basic troubleshooting.
• Maintain a clean and safe work area.

Skills

Attention to detail

Strong work ethic

Ability to work independently

Physical fitness

Job description

Department: Science Apprenticeship - Polymer Processing Technician L3

Location: Aylesbury

Compensation: £21,000 - £24,000 / year

Description

Location: Unit 1 Woodham Industrial Estate, Creighton Road, Woodham, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP18 0QE

Working for Aylesbury Granulation

Aylesbury Granulation is an independent, family‑run plastic recycling company based in Buckinghamshire. Since 2011, they have specialised in processing segregated rigid plastic waste into high‑quality regrinds for reuse in manufacturing across the UK. With a strong focus on sustainability, quality, and reliability, they help businesses turn plastic waste into valuable raw material—reducing landfill use and supporting the circular economy. Their small, dedicated team ensures every batch is handled with care, maintaining strict standards of cleanliness and quality.

The Package

• Starting salary of £21,000/year to £24,000/year depending on experience
• Workings hours are 9:00am to 4:00pm (Monday to Friday)
• Regular training and CPD opportunities
• Clear pathway to future plant management
• On‑site parking

What will I be doing as an apprentice?

We offer an opportunity for a Recycling Operative to join our small, dynamic team, supporting day‑to‑day production operations and assisting with the processing and granulation of waste plastics to ensure safe, efficient, and high‑quality output. This role provides a strong foundation for a career in the plastics recycling industry, offering opportunities to develop practical factory skills, problem‑solving abilities, and operational knowledge in a supportive, hands‑on environment.

Summary of duties

• Operate recycling machinery, including granulating and shredding, to process a range of rigid plastic materials such as buckets, bins, crates, and manufacturing scrap.
• Feed plastic waste safely and efficiently onto conveyors to maintain consistent production flow.
• Monitor machinery during operation and perform basic troubleshooting to prevent downtime.
• Move materials between the yard and processing unit using appropriate handling equipment.
• Change, weigh, and label bags of finished regrind to meet production and quality standards.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organised work area at all times.
• Complete production records and paperwork accurately.
• Work collaboratively with the team to ensure smooth operation and achieve production targets.
• Take ownership of the process and, once trained, run the line independently.
• Adhere to all health and safety procedures and company policies.
• Operate a forklift to move materials around the site (training can be provided for candidates without experience).

Please note: This is a very hands on/physical role. You must be 18+ to apply due to insurance purposes.

What could the future look like?

When you join Aylesbury Granulation, the possibilities for your success are limitless. At the conclusion of your apprenticeship, the company may offer a full‑time position, providing a long‑term team member and succession planning. Through practical training on the job, you will acquire new skills and gain the competence and responsibility required for manufacturing and process operations. This apprenticeship serves as a stepping stone towards a rewarding career in polymer processing, with the opportunity to become a registered Science or Engineering Technician (RSci/Eng Tech). Professional growth includes specialisation in areas such as process optimisation, quality control, or equipment maintenance, leading to supervisory or leadership roles within the polymer manufacturing environment.

Skills, Knowledge, and Experience

About You

You are a motivated and reliable individual with a strong work ethic and excellent attention to detail. You take responsibility for your work, are punctual, and have the initiative to work independently as a self‑starter. You are committed to doing a job thoroughly and safely, taking pride in the quality of your work. This is a very hands‑on and practical role, so you must be physically fit and comfortable with demanding manual work. The role involves moving and handling heavy materials, feeding machinery, operating conveyors, changing bags of finished product, and maintaining a busy production line. You should be confident working in a factory environment where you may be exposed to both hotter and colder temperatures and need stamina and resilience to keep up with a fast‑paced workflow. You enjoy practical, tangible tasks and take satisfaction from seeing the results of your efforts. Being responsible, reliable, and consistent is crucial, as is maintaining a focus on safety, quality, and efficiency throughout your work.

Experience

We value attitude, curiosity, and commitment just as much as past experience. While previous manufacturing experience can be helpful, it’s not essential—you’re welcome from all backgrounds, especially with a genuine interest and motivation. Whether a school or college leaver or someone looking to retrain, if you’re enthusiastic, proactive, and ready to learn, you’ll fit right in. Some previous factory experience would be beneficial.

Qualifications

It’s about enthusiasm, not school results. The most successful apprentices are driven to find out more about the sector, be upfront about what they know and don’t know, be considerate, self‑reflective, and eager to learn the job role.

So how does the apprenticeship work?

Over 24 months, you’ll devote a minimum of 6 hours of your working week to off the job training. This includes theory training (e.g., virtual lessons & online learning) and practical training (e.g., shadowing, mentoring, & time spent writing assignments). Together this will count towards a Level 3 Polymer Processing Technician apprenticeship. You’ll be trained by an expert tutor from Tiro as well as an experienced mentor at Aylesbury Granulation who will develop the knowledge, skills, and work habits for success. Being an apprentice is hands‑on, giving you the chance to learn practical skills and earn a salary while gaining qualifications, avoiding large student loans.

Eligibility

To be eligible, applicants must demonstrate that the program will provide learning and experiences beyond current qualifications and professional expertise. Applicants must be over 18, not in full‑time education, have lived in the UK for 3 years, and have the right to work in the UK. If you already hold a Level 3, degree, or higher‑level qualification related to the field, or possess substantial relevant experience, you may not be eligible for apprenticeship funding—as these programmes are for those requiring upskilling or reskilling.

Please note: This is a very hands on/physical role. You must be 18+ to apply due to insurance purposes. If you don’t quite meet these minimum requirements yet, let us know you’re interested and we’ll discuss further.