Register Your Interest - Science Manufacturing Technician (Biotechnology) Level 3 Apprenticeship

Working as part of a multi-disciplinary team focusing on operating the systems and equipment involved in the production of advanced therapeutics and complex medicines.

Occupation Summary

Biotechnology manufacturing technicians produce biological products such as proteins, antibodies, and DNA, which will be used in pharmaceuticals. The final product may be solid or liquid and may be filled into small volume bottles or large bulk containers. Typically, batch processing is used. They may work in a controlled environment, such as laboratory or clean room, or production facilities. Biotechnology has an important role to play in helping to address many global problems, such as climate change. For example, synthetic biology is already contributing to the development of many biological systems producing drugs, chemicals, and fuels without using fossil fuels.

Knowledge

• The science manufacturing technician will develop a knowledge of products, production methods, and customer requirements.
• Key competencies include understanding batch and continuous processes, equipment operation, process control, and quality assurance.
• Will work to high standards through the application of standard operating procedures, cleanroom and aseptic protocols, and regulatory compliance such as GMP and MHRA requirements.
• Will develop a strong grasp of health, safety, and environmental practices in line with legislation such as COSHH, RIDDOR, and the Health and Safety at Work Act.
• Understand the importance of managing hazards through PPE, risk assessments, and emergency procedures.

Skills

• Demonstrate the safe and efficient planning and execution of tasks by following instructions, identifying hazards, and applying relevant health, safety, environmental, and sustainability procedures.
• Operate within controlled environments, performing pre-checks, setting process parameters, and using equipment for production, cleaning, and maintenance.
• Demonstrate competence in equipment calibration, data interpretation, in-process testing, and quality assurance checks.
• Use digital tools for data entry, communication, and documentation while adhering to cybersecurity and GDPR requirements.
• Demonstrate strong problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills, continuous improvement, and compliance with standard operating procedures across all stages of manufacturing.

Behaviours

• Demonstrate a strong commitment to safety, quality, and regulatory compliance, consistently following procedures and escalating issues when necessary.
• Take responsibility for work, show attention to detail, and maintain high levels of accuracy and integrity.
• Be adaptable, respond positively to change, and contribute to continuous improvement.
• Work effectively both independently and as part of a team, communicate clearly, respect equality and diversity, and take ownership of personal development to enhance performance and support organisational goals.

Entry requirements

• Typically apprentices will hold Level 2 qualifications, equivalent to 5 GCSEs above Grade C/4 providing the appropriate background to support learning at Level 3.
• Apprentices without Level 2 English and maths will need to achieve this level prior to endpoint assessment.
• For those with an education, health and care plan, the English and maths minimum requirement is entry Level 3.

Progression routes

• Following successful completion of endpoint assessment the apprentice will operate as a Science Technician.
• At the end of this apprenticeship apprentices will have achieved a Level 3 apprenticeship with a BTEC in Applied Sciences.
• The apprenticeship is aligned with professional registration at RSciTech/EngTech with Science & Engineering Councils.
• Further apprenticeships and academic learning at Level 5 and 6 can be achieved following completion of this apprenticeship.

Key information

• Level (At end of programme): Level 3 (equivalent to BTEC/A-Levels).
• Maximum Duration: 24 months.
• Available Funding: £22,000 funding band minimum available through the Apprenticeship Levy. Employers that do not pay the Levy will fund 5% of the funding band maximum.
• Targeted for new entrants to your business or up-skilling staff with knowledge & skills for scientific operations.
• Recommended training provider(s): Cogent Skills.
• Start date: TBC.

Register Your Interest

To be the first to know once applications open, register your interest today!