Laboratory Materials Technician Apprenticeship; Level 3 - CE Geotech

Department: Science Apprenticeship - Materials L3

Location: Northampton

Compensation: £19,000 / year

Location:

Unit 11 Matts Lodge Farm, Grooms Lane, Creaton, Northampton, NN6 8NN

Expected

Start Date:

ASAP

Working for CE Geotech

CE Geotech Ltd is a leading geotechnical solutions provider specialising in the assessment, testing and validation of soils for ground engineering and earthworks projects. Working across the construction and civil engineering sectors, they support clients throughout the entire project lifecycle, from initial site investigations and laboratory testing through to on‑site control and validation testing. With a reputation for delivering high‑quality technical expertise and innovative solutions, CE Geotech helps clients overcome complex ground engineering challenges while maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety.

We now have a fantastic opportunity to join CE Geotech as a Laboratory Based Materials Technician Apprentice. Whether based in the laboratory or out on site, you'll play an important role in supporting ground engineering projects while gaining valuable industry experience and a nationally recognised qualification through our training partner, Tiro.

• Starting salary of £19,000 per year (increasing to National Minimum/Living Wage after 12 months)
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Working hours are 40 hours per week, 8am - 5pm Mon - Friday (potential for weekend overtime)
• Regular training and CPD opportunities

As a Laboratory‑Based Materials Technician Apprentice, you'll support the testing and analysis of geotechnical construction materials within a UKAS‑accredited laboratory environment. Working alongside experienced technicians and engineers, you'll prepare samples, carry out a range of laboratory tests, record and analyse data, and help ensure materials meet the required quality standards. You'll be responsible for identifying any deviations from testing procedures, reporting issues and supporting investigations to maintain the accuracy and integrity of results.

• Preparing and testing soil, aggregate and other construction material samples in accordance with UKAS‑accredited procedures.
• Operating laboratory equipment and testing machinery safely and effectively.
• Recording test results and maintaining accurate, up‑to‑date records using the company's KeyLAB system.
• Assisting with the analysis and interpretation of test data to support client projects.
• Supporting the preparation of technical reports and test documentation.
• Ensuring all work is completed in line with company quality procedures, health and safety requirements and UKAS standards.
• Maintaining laboratory equipment and helping to keep the laboratory organised, safe and efficient.
• Working closely with colleagues to ensure testing programmes are completed accurately and within agreed timescales.
• Supporting site‑based activities when required to gain a broader understanding of materials testing and geotechnical engineering.

You’re naturally curious about how materials behave and enjoy understanding why they perform the way they do, not just following instructions. You take pride in getting things right, paying close attention to detail, and producing accurate, reliable results. Whether you’ve explored science before or are just starting out, you’re motivated to build real knowledge and develop a long‑term career in a materials testing laboratory.

You’re someone who thrives in a structured setting. You like clarity, routine, and knowing what good looks like. Following standardised test methods, working with laboratory equipment, and carefully preparing samples and recording data feels satisfying rather than restrictive. You’re patient, focused, and comfortable repeating precise tasks because you understand that consistency and accuracy are essential for high‑quality results.

You take safety, quality standards, and laboratory procedures seriously, and you approach your work with a calm, methodical mindset. You’re just as comfortable working independently as you are communicating clearly with colleagues, supervisors, and engineers. You’re…