Technician Scientist (Chemistry) Apprenticeship - Level 5

As an apprentice, you’ll begin your journey at AWE’s Skills Academy before moving into specialist functional teams within their laboratories. You’ll be assigned to one of the following areas:

• Warhead and Deterrence Materials Science – focused on researching, testing and analysing a wide range of materials, from warhead components to environmental samples.
• Warhead Engineering – responsible for product design, prototyping, systems integration, validation and verification, and home to a range of engineers including electronic, mechanical, systems, materials and chemical specialists.

This work supports AWE’s mission to safely deliver and maintain the UK’s deterrent capability.

What you’ll do:

During your placements, you’ll gain hands-on experience in a laboratory environment, developing the knowledge and skills needed for a successful career in science and engineering.

You’ll learn about:

• Laboratory safety
• Handling hazardous substances, including awareness of radioactive and explosive materials
• Applying quality standards in a laboratory setting
• Customer service in a technical environment
• Using laboratory equipment
• Preparing and analysing samples and substances
• Managing and interpreting data
• Checking and reporting result

You’ll also take part in personal development activities such as team-building challenges, organisational awareness sessions, health and safety workshops, and charity projects.

This opportunity is ideal if you:

• Enjoy practical, hands-on laboratory work
• Have an interest in science, engineering, and technological innovation
• Like solving problems and thinking analytically
• Work well as part of a collaborative team

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 AWE to continue to deliver national nuclear security, threat reduction and counter-terrorism solutions.

Recruitment process:

This vacancy closes on 7th December 2025, but applications are reviewed as they are received — so early applications are strongly encouraged. AWE’s recruitment process is designed to be fair, transparent, and straightforward, helping you perform at your best. It involves three simple stages:

Online application

Apply for one apprenticeship that best aligns with your interests and career goals. Take your time to explore the opportunities before submitting your application.

Online assessment

If shortlisted, you’ll be invited to complete online tests covering numerical, verbal, logical, and cognitive reasoning. Practice materials will be available so you’ll know what to expect and can prepare in advance.

Virtual assessment centre

Candidates successful in the testing stage will be invited to attend a virtual assessment centre. These are scheduled for 9th, 10th, 12th December 2025, and 14th January 2026. Please note that these dates may be subject to change, but rest assured, AWE will keep all applicants informed throughout the process.