Technician Scientist

As a Technician Scientist (Chemistry) Apprentice at AWE, you will undertake your apprenticeship induction within the Skills Academy; before joining the relevant functional teams based in our laboratories across the AWE Aldermaston and Burghfield sites. You will be assigned to one of the sub functions either: The Warhead and Deterrence Materials Science sub-function which is responsible for the research, testing and analysis of many different materials ranging from warhead components to environmental samples, or The Warhead Engineering sub-function which is responsible for product design and prototyping, engineering analysis, systems integration, validation and verification, and is home to a variety of engineers including electronic, mechanical, systems, materials and chemical engineers. This work is vital in assuring our mission to deliver the warhead is accomplished whilst keeping our people and environment safe. During the time in placements, you will undertake various laboratory-based tasks which will enable you to develop a complete set of skills and knowledge required to work successfully at AWE. During your apprenticeship journey, you will learn the following skills: Laboratory safety Handling of hazardous substances- awareness of radioactive and explosive materials Quality and its application in a laboratory environment Customer service skills Use of laboratory equipment Preparation of substances Sample preparation Analysis of samples Data handling Checking and reporting of results In addition, you will also be given the opportunity for personal development through activities such as team building challenges, organisational awareness presentations, health and safety workshops and charity projects. This role may appeal to you if you enjoy Enjoy both practical laboratory work and supporting office-based activities Have an interest in science and engineering and advancements in these areas Enjoy problem solving Enjoy working as part of a wider team Entry Requirements: Applicants must be aged 18 or over, as of 31st August 2026 due to security clearance requirements You must be a British National to apply for a role with us. 5 GCSE's at C/4 or above including Maths, English, Science technology or engineering related subject. At least 3 A Levels grade C or above including A level Chemistry and another Science or Maths A level. The Benefits: A starting salary of £23,500 yearly, increasing to £25,000 in Year 2 and annually throughout your apprenticeship — subject to meeting key milestones and performance expectations. Market leading contributory pension scheme Generous holiday entitlement of 270 hours a year (inclusive of Bank Holidays) plus every other Friday off Access to employee discounts portal - everyday savings on retail, hospitality and leisure Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services Alongside these benefits you will get the opportunity to learn from some of the top leaders in their field whilst helping us to continue to deliver national nuclear security, threat reduction and counter-terrorism solutions. Start Date: Tuesday 1st September 2026 Annual leave will not be granted from 1st September until 2nd October 2026 due to mandatory inductions you are required to complete as part of your apprenticeship. Any leave approved after this point will depend on the training provider requirements for your apprenticeship and must be agreed in advance. Duration: 36 months plus 3 months End Point Assessment. Want to access more insight? Sign up to Connectr to access exclusive events, learning modules and the chance to directly message current apprentices about what it’s like at AWE. Sign up now.