Cosmetics Laboratory Technician Apprenticeship; Level 3; Enkos

Department: Science Apprenticeship - Chemistry L3

Employment Type: Apprentice

Location: Surrey

Compensation: £9.00 / hour

Location: Leatherhead, Surrey KT22 7RD

Expected

Start Date:

ASAP

Enkos Developments is a specialist cosmetic formulation company, helping bring creative ideas to life through science and innovation. Its highly skilled team combines technical expertise with the latest trends and technologies in the beauty and personal care industry, developing a wide range of skincare and haircare products. With over 80 awards won for its formulations and counting, Enkos takes pride in creating innovative, high-quality products that stand out.

As an apprentice, you'll be supporting the day-to-day running of the lab while gaining hands-on experience in a cosmetic science environment. You'll help prepare and label samples, carry out basic laboratory measurements, maintain equipment and support the wider team. As your skills and confidence develop, you'll have the opportunity to learn more about the product development process and build a long-term career within the business.

• Starting salary: £9.00 per hour
• Annual leave: 25 days + bank holidays (3 days to be taken during the Christmas and New Year office closure)
• Working hours:
  
  40 hours per week
• Regular training and development opportunities
• Private medical insurance
• Gym membership contribution
• Life assurance
• Critical illness cover
• Income protection

This apprenticeship provides a strong foundation for a future career in cosmetic science, offering opportunities to develop practical laboratory skills and gradually build your knowledge of cosmetic formulation:

• Support the research and development teams with day-to-day laboratory activities.
• Measure and record the pH, viscosity and specific gravity of laboratory batches and samples.
• Prepare, fill and label laboratory samples according to instructions.
• Start learning the basics of making lab batches, by supporting chemists with simple formulation trials such as mixing single phase oil or aqueous systems, and trialling fragrances at differing levels in existing formulation bases.
• Learn how to calibrate pH meters and prepare laboratory solutions, including pH adjusters and ethanol solutions.
• Help maintain a clean, safe and organised laboratory, including cleaning equipment and glassware.
• Monitor laboratory consumables and ingredient samples, helping to maintain accurate stock records.
• Assist with identifying expired raw material samples and organising them for appropriate chemical waste disposal.
• Keep accurate laboratory notes and follow relevant safety procedures.
• Work closely with the Lab Manager, Lab Supervisor and wider team to support efficient laboratory operations.

You're naturally curious and enjoy science, particularly understanding how products are made and tested. You have a keen eye for detail, take pride in producing accurate work and understand the importance of following instructions carefully. You don't need previous experience in cosmetic formulation, just a genuine interest in developing your laboratory skills.

You're organised, reliable and proactive, with a positive attitude towards practical work. You enjoy keeping your workspace tidy, making sure equipment and materials are ready when needed and taking the initiative to keep things running smoothly. You're comfortable carrying out routine tasks, maintaining accurate records and following safety procedures.

You enjoy working as part of a team and are always willing to support colleagues wherever needed. You communicate openly, take responsibility for your own work and are happy to ask questions when you're unsure. Most importantly, you're…