Quality Control Technician Apprenticeship; Level 3 - FIRA International

Location

Unit 3 Cockerell Cl, Stevenage SG1 2NB

Element is one of the world’s fastest-growing testing, inspection and certification businesses, operating across 270 sites in 30 countries with over 9,000 employees worldwide. Our purpose is simple: to make tomorrow safer than today.

FIRA International, part of the Element Group, provides independent testing, certification, inspection and technical services to the furniture industry. We help customers ensure their products and materials are safe, compliant and fit for purpose.

• Starting salary: £24,479 per annum
• Working hours:
  
  35 hours per week, Monday – Friday, 8am – 4pm
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Life assurance scheme
• Legal & General Pension Scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Free onsite refreshments
• Recommend a friend bonus
• Perks at Work discount scheme
• Regular training and CPD opportunities

FIRA International are pleased to be able to offer you the opportunity to both earn a salary and study towards a nationally recognised qualification through our Level 3 Laboratory Technician Apprenticeship.

• Ensure that test items are correctly handled, stored and conditioned.
• All test preparation (e.g. cutting, sizing, labelling and affixing) to be in accordance with standards and procedures.

• Enter and update all job status on testing system as required.
• Conduct all tests to recognised test standard, methodology, FIRA procedures, UKAS and general quality requirements.
• Correctly set up, monitor and measure each test, recording all relevant data.

• Ensure that test results are accurately recorded and collated.
• Produce draft and submit written reports in the correct format.

• Understand and apply relevant standards for each test and keep abreast of any developments in standards.

• Be prepared to assist in any test area and learn additional skills as directed.
• Assist in calibration and maintenance of equipment where necessary.
• Assist in accepting all testing deliveries, sign for and book in samples, mark up and ensure located correctly.

• Responsible for health and safety issues within own work area.
• Observe all health and safety regulations and ensure good housekeeping and PPE.

You’re naturally curious and enjoy understanding how things work, 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 laboratory environment.

You’re someone who thrives in a structured setting - you like clarity, routine, and knowing what good looks like. Following processes, working to standards, and carefully recording your work feels satisfying rather than restrictive. You’re patient, focused, and comfortable spending time on precise tasks, even when they’re repetitive, because you understand that quality and consistency matter.

You take ownership of your learning, are open to feedback, and approach your work with a calm, methodical mindset. You’re just as happy working independently as you are contributing to a team, and you’re excited by the idea of progressing within a lab setting - building your skills step by step and becoming a trusted expert over time.

Please note:

You must be 18+ due to the nature of the working environment.

• 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.
• 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.

You’ll follow a structured programme combining live sessions, online learning, and hands‑on workplace training to build your skills step by step.

Over 20 months, you’ll combine day‑to‑day experience in your role with structured training delivered by expert tutors  blended learning approach includes a mix of online sessions, in‑person training, and hands‑on support, alongside…