This apprenticeship role involves supporting the Technical Department with sample collection, testing, and technical support for suppliers and customers. You will assist in the lab by performing tests, analysing results, and preparing documents such as Technical Data Sheets (TDS) and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS). With guidance from the Technical Director, you’ll develop valuable skills in research, testing procedures, and quality assurance. Qualification Requirements Minimum 5 GCSE's at 9 - 4 (A - C) including Maths, English and Science Salary - £16,194.75 to £ 26,190.45 Benefits Holiday Allowance - 25 Days Holiday Allowance, plus Bank Holidays Pension - Employee 5%, Employer 5% Medical Insurance, inc Eyecare and Dental Casual Dress Death in service benefit Employee recognition / awards Away days / company parties Location - Vanden Recycling Ltd 31a Aaron Road Industrial Estate Whittlesey, PE7 2EX United Kingdom Working Hours 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday, (optional overtime) Duration - 36 months Start Date - ASAP Closing Date for Applications - 4th April To Apply Please click apply to submit your CV. If you have issues please contact recruitmentcogentksills.com Next Steps Once the vacancy has close, your application will be shared with the hiring Manager for review. Job Description This apprenticeship role involves supporting the Technical Department with sample collection, testing, and technical support for suppliers and customers. You will assist in the lab by performing tests, analysing results, and preparing documents such as Technical Data Sheets (TDS) and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS). With guidance from the Technical Director, you’ll develop valuable skills in research, testing procedures, and quality assurance. Job Responsibilities This apprenticeship role involves supporting the Technical Department with sample collection, testing, and technical support for suppliers and customers. You will assist in the lab by performing tests, analysing results, and preparing documents such as Technical Data Sheets (TDS) and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS). With guidance from the Technical Director, you’ll develop valuable skills in research, testing procedures, and quality assurance. Essential Duties & Responsibilities: Learning & Support in Daily Operations: Assist in the daily tasks of the lab, including sample collection and testing. Learn how to perform lab-based tests on materials and document results. Support equipment calibration and maintain lab records accurately. Research & Development: Develop your understanding of the recycling industry by researching materials, suppliers, and market trends. Assist with research into customer and supplier needs, supply chains, and products. Teamwork & Documentation: Collaborate with experienced team members to develop lab skills and knowledge. Help maintain accurate records of testing procedures, results, and analysis. Assist in preparing technical documentation such as TDS and MSDS. What You’ll Gain: Practical lab experience in the recycling industry. Exposure to testing processes and technical documentation. Opportunities to develop technical, research, and communication skills. What We’re Looking For: Positive attitude and willingness to learn. Interest in lab work, material testing, and quality control. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Attention to detail and ability to document accurately. A valid driving license is desirable Knowledge (Education & Related Experience): Interest in Chemistry, Engineering, Polymer Science, or related fields. Previous experience in a lab environment (school, university, or workplace) is beneficial but not required. Willingness to learn about technical testing and documentation. Skills & Abilities: Strong problem-solving and analytical skills. Good communication and organizational skills. Basic familiarity with Microsoft Office tools (Excel, Outlook, Word) Good communication skills: Can explain ideas clearly to team members, suppliers and customers. Comfortable working as part of a team to achieve goals. Highly organised, with a willingness to develop time management skills (e.g., using calendars or reminders). Open to learning how to follow internal policies and procedures. Basic familiarity with Microsoft Office tools (Excel, Outlook, Word) or a willingness to learn. Can gather and use information effectively, beyond quick online searches. General Attributes: Enthusiastic about taking on challenges and growing within the role. Pays attention to detail and thinks critically about tasks. Open to feedback and reflective on successes and areas for improvement. Empathetic towards others and values teamwork. Resilient—able to bounce back from setbacks and try again. Willing to have honest, professional conversations when needed. Professional, ethical, and committed to continuous learning and development. Understands the importance of upfront effort to prevent issues later on. Enjoys exploring new ideas and processes to improve Training To Be Delivered Apprenticeship Standard: Lab Technician Level 3 Training Provider: Cogent Skills Delivery model: Blended, a mixture of online and in person training About Vanden Recycling At Vanden, we’re passionate about transforming waste into a valuable commodity. Our mission: “Build the world’s largest recycled plastics commodities company”. Since we started on our journey, back in 2005, we’ve developed a worldwide presence, serving hundreds of customers in over 50 countries. And we’ve grown a strong, capable team of colleagues who are dedicated and loyal. We are headquartered in Hong Kong with operations and representation in Australia, Finland, Ireland, Turkey, Spain, Netherlands & UK. We operate a factory based in the UK specialising in the collection and recycling of plastic waste generated from industry and manufacturing.