Laboratory Scientist (Materials) Degree Apprenticeship (Level 6) - Sika bei Tiro

Location:  Site C, Watchmead, Welwyn Garden City AL7 1BQ


Working for Sika

Sika is a global leader in speciality chemicals, driving innovation and performance across the construction and industrial manufacturing industries. Since its founding in 1910, Sika has built a reputation as a trusted partner for delivering high-quality solutions that enhance durability, safety, and sustainability in the built environment.

With a strong heritage of expertise and continuous innovation, Sika provides a comprehensive portfolio of products and systems – from roofing, flooring, sealing and bonding, to concrete admixtures and waterproofing. Our robust research and development, combined with rigorous testing and technical support, ensures that Sika solutions meet the highest standards of quality and reliability.

By working closely with clients, contractors, and stakeholders, Sika helps create sustainable value throughout the construction supply chain in the UK and global marketplaces.

Sika is pleased to be able to offer you the opportunity to both earn a salary and study towards a nationally recognised qualification through our apprenticeship programme.

Within this role, you will be introduced to the core functions of Sika’s Research & Development department and will progressively take on responsibilities with developing skills, knowledge, and capabilities. You will gain insight into the full product creation cycle, from concept to application, while building a strong foundation in cementitious technology and formulation strategies.

As part of your role, you will:

This role offers the chance to develop both technically and professionally, while contributing to the research and innovation that underpin Sika’s reputation as a leader in construction materials. 

There’s no limit to what you can achieve while working with Sika. Their team is at the heart of what they do, and they are looking for someone who wants to play a key part in that long term. 

 

Through ‘on-the-job’ training you’ll have the opportunity to learn new skills to provide competency and responsibility in carrying out testing and to help develop your career.  At the end of your apprenticeship, you'll achieve a Bachelor of Science (BSci) in Applied Materials Sciences. 

For this position, you'll need to hold an A Level (or equivalent Level 3 qualification) in Mathematics and/or Science (Chemistry or Physics) at a minimum grade C. 

In our experience the most successful apprentices are those who are also driven to find out more about the sector, can be up front about what they do and don’t already know, are considerate, self-reflective, and impatient to learn the job role!  

 

Whilst previous experience is great, we’re not just interested in experience and qualifications; we’re looking for someone with the right attitude and aptitude to fit right in at Sika. 

 

This is a very hands on and practical role so you should be willing to get stuck in. 
 
We’re looking for someone who is focused and careful in all aspects of work. You’ll be results oriented, and able to use your good attention to detail to identify problems and record observations. The ability to think on your feet is crucial due to the environment and nature of the role! 

 

You will have good health and safety awareness and be able to work towards strict health and safety guidelines. 
 

Every day will be different, and you'll have the opportunity to work closely with the team to succeed. You'll need to be a good and honest communicator, to speak up and work together. 
 

To succeed in this apprenticeship, you’ll need bags of enthusiasm, be a fantastic collaborator and be hungry to learn!

Our Degree Apprenticeships (Level 6) are designed to provide fearless scientists in the making with a head start in their chosen career. Giving you the best of both worlds, you’ll receive a recognised and accredited qualification whilst obtaining hands on practical experience.

Why Tiro?

At Tiro, we’ve partnered with Middlesex University to offer a variety of degree apprenticeship programs in the field of science including Applied Materials Sciences. Our programs are designed to give you the best of both worlds: academic learning and practical training that will set you up for success in your chosen career path.

Our programs are designed to offer an alternative to graduate schemes, providing opportunities for ambitious and driven individuals with exceptional talent in STEM to progress their careers while also earning a salary.

So how does the apprenticeship work?

At Tiro we’re obsessed with changing lives through science and technology apprenticeships so we can’t wait to have you on board. 

 

Over 33 months, you will develop your knowledge and skills in your chosen field to become a leader pushing development, knowledge generation and innovation.

You will be provided with 6 hours per week by your employer to conduct learning and training during working hours. This can include theory training (for example, virtual lessons & online learning), alongside practical training (for example shadowing, mentoring, & time spent writing assignments.

You’ll be trained by a team of expert tutors from Tiro as well as an experienced workplace mentor at Sika who, together, will make sure you develop the knowledge, skills, and work habits you’ll need to succeed in your career. 



Requirements

At Tiro, our vision is to deliver transformational learning, developing apprentices into obsessive science and technology professionals and leaders, who succeed and thrive in industry.

 

With that in mind we are looking for curious, inquiring learners, determined to continually develop core and technical skills and knowledge in their field.

 

Our Apprentices are independent and motivated workers; they have a growth mind-set and a self-reflective approach to learning.

You’ll be fearless, ambitious, and hungry for progression onto higher levels of learning.

 

Since this opportunity is working within the materials industry, you should have an interest in this sector, to want drive forward your career. 

 

You’ll have an enthusiasm for science and problem solving, be able to follow procedures and also have an inquisitive nature enabling you to question the status quo.

Entry requirements

There are some minimum requirements you’ll need to meet to do an apprenticeship, these are rules set by the UK Government.

You’ll need to be over 18, not in full time education (at time of enrolment), have lived in the UK for 3 years and have the right to work in the UK.

Alongside this you will need to have a minimum of Level 3 qualifications (A-levels, BTECs, or equivalent) AND relevant work experience or lab based experience.

Due to the nature and location of this position, we are only accepting applicants who hold a UK Driving license and are able to drive to site within a 45 minute commute.

If you don’t quite meet these minimum requirements yet, let us know you’re interested here, and we’ll get in touch to discuss this further with you.