Apprentice Laboratory Assistant

Job Description:

Fera is a national and international centre of excellence for interdisciplinary investigation and problem solving across plant and bee health, crop protection, sustainable agriculture, food and feed quality and chemical safety in the environment. We create and deliver integrated, innovative and expert research services and products for our partners in crop protection, chemical and animal health companies, as well as food producers and growers, manufacturers, distributors and retailers. We also support and work closely with governments, academia and leading research organisations. We employ 350 scientists in the extensive laboratory facilities of the National Agri-Food and Innovation Campus where Fera is based. This impressive campus is located near to the village of Sand Hutton which is just a few miles from York and is served by excellent transport links.

The Role:

You will have a significant and valuable opportunity to build a portfolio of laboratory skills through on the job training whilst gaining a recognised qualification. This exciting opportunity will ideally be suited to individuals with a scientific and practical mindset who will thrive in an active applied science environment.  You must be prepared to attend York St John University to study Level 4 (Cert HE) Biological Sciences.

Positions will be based in the Plant Protection Programme and Food Safety Programme at Fera.

The apprentice will contribute towards pathogen diagnosis in the laboratory to support plant protection within the UK and overseas for both commercial and government customers. The Plant Protection Programme provides a pest and disease identification service for the government’s Plant Health and Seeds Inspectors.   The Food Safety Programme has a large range of testing abilities and provides overall advice on any food issue that our customers may be facing.  

The apprenticeship role will be in one of these programmes. Apprentices will become competent to carry out support work in the core laboratories and be able to respond to emergency delivery needs as they arise.

What you will receive:

• Level 4 (Cert HE) Biological Sciences
• Level 3 Laboratory Technician Apprenticeship
• A Salary (per annum): Real Living Wage £19,372
• 23 days annual leave allowance, plus 8 days of public holiday.

Requirements

Acceptance is subject to interview and skills test.                          

Desired qualifications:

GCSE Maths, English and Science – grade C or above/grade 4 or above - Essential

A Level in Biology or Chemistry is preferred but not essential, or Level 3 science-based qualification (e.g. BTEC Extended Diploma in Applied Science), or relevant experience.  

Desired skills:

• Excellent communication skills.
• Strong IT ability.
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
• Willingness to learn and ability to retain new skills.
• Great attention to detail and the patience to double check work for accuracy.
• The capability to work within deadlines.
• A flexible approach to working in a busy and varied work environment.
• The ability to follow written and verbal instruction.

Personal qualities:

• A passion for science.
• Strong work ethic.
• Enthusiastic.
• Punctual.
• Organised, determined and proactive approach to lab work and coursework.

About the employer

Fera Science Ltd.

National Agri-Food and Innovation Campus

Sand Hutton

York

YO41 1LZ