Finishes Laboratory Testing Technician (Level 3) - FIRA International

Tiro • Internship • SG1 2NB • £22k / year • 2w ago

Apprenticeship Opportunity at FIRA International

FIRA International, part of the Element Group, is a leading provider of independent testing, inspection, certification, and training services for the furniture industry. We ensure that materials, products, systems, and operations are safe, high-quality, compliant, and fit for purpose.

We’re excited to offer an opportunity to join us as a Laboratory Testing Technician (Level 3) Apprentice. This apprenticeship allows you to earn while learning through practical, on-the-job training and academic study.

The Package

Salary: £22,000 per annum
Hours: 35 hours/week (Monday – Friday, 8am–4pm)
Benefits:
25 days annual leave + bank holidays
Life assurance scheme
Legal & General Pension Scheme
Cycle-to-work scheme
Perks at Work discounts
Free onsite refreshments
Training and CPD opportunities
What You’ll Do as an Apprentice
You’ll work towards a Level 3 Laboratory Technician qualification, gaining hands-on experience in testing, preparation, and analysis.

Core Responsibilities

Material Preparation

Properly handle, store, and condition test items.
Prepare samples (cutting, sizing, labeling) as per standards and procedures.
Testing and Analysis

Accept and log deliveries, ensuring correct sample labeling and location.
Conduct tests according to FIRA, UKAS, and recognized industry standards.
Record and collate accurate test results.

Health, Safety, and Administration

Follow health and safety protocols, identifying and addressing hazards.
Provide high-quality service to internal and external clients.
Generate quotations, invoices, and reports promptly and accurately.
Assist with workflow planning and team coordination.

Your Future Career
This apprenticeship offers a clear path to a fulfilling career in testing, certification, or related industries like engineering, R&D, and marine biology. Skilled professionals in this field are in demand across sectors.

On successful completion, you could secure a full-time role, with the potential to advance to specialized or leadership positions. Additionally, the program sets the foundation to register as a Technician (RSci Tech), boosting career prospects further.

About You

We value enthusiasm and aptitude over formal qualifications. The ideal candidate is:

Practical and Science-Oriented: Enjoys hands-on work and is eager to learn.
Detail-Focused: Maintains accuracy in record-keeping and identifies problems effectively.
Customer-Centric: Communicates well and provides excellent service.
Safety-Conscious: Aware of health and safety requirements.
Team-Oriented: Works well with others and takes pride in their contributions.
Tech-Savvy: Comfortable using MS Office and quick to learn new systems.

Essential Requirements:

Aged 18+ due to the role’s responsibilities.
Able to undertake manual handling/heavy lifting.
Able to commute to site within 45 minutes.

How the Apprenticeship Works
Over 21 months, you’ll spend at least six hours per week on ‘off-the-job’ training, combining online lessons, shadowing, mentoring, and assignments. This is delivered by Tiro, an expert apprenticeship provider, and supported by an on-site mentor.

This hands-on approach offers practical insights you wouldn’t gain from traditional college or university courses—all while earning a salary and avoiding student loan debt!

Eligibility

To apply, you must:

Be 18+ years old.
Have lived in the UK for at least 3 years.
Be eligible to work in the UK and not in full-time education.
If you’re interested but don’t meet all requirements, contact us to discuss alternative options.

If you’re ready to kick-start your career in testing and want to grow with FIRA International, we’d love to hear from you!