Materials Science Technologist Degree Apprenticeship

Summary

As a Materials Science Technologist, you'll be a key player in our R&D department, helping to shape the next generation of lightweight materials. Based in the renowned Magnesium Technology Centre, you'll have the opportunity to work on exciting projects that make a real-world impact, while studying towards your degree.

Wage

£18,000 a year

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Training course

Materials science technologist (degree) (level 6)

Hours

Monday to Friday, shifts to be confirmed.

37 hours a week

Start date

Monday 1 September 2025

Duration

4 years

Positions available

2

Work

Most of your apprenticeship is spent working. You’ll learn on the job by getting hands-on experience.

What you’ll do at work

Section and prepare castings, extrusions, and forgings for analysis
Conduct mechanical testing of materials to evaluate their properties
Assist in the developmental foundry to prepare small-scale castings
Collate test results and write comprehensive reports
Collaborate with various departments to enhance product quality and processes

You'll also gain valuable experience through placements in other departments such as Quality Assurance and Manufacturing—each lasting six months—to broaden your skill set and knowledge base.

Where you’ll work

Lumns Lane
Manchester
M27 8LN

Training

Apprenticeships include time away from working for specialist training. You’ll study to gain professional knowledge and skills.

College or training organisation

SHEFFIELD HALLAM UNIVERSITY

Your training course

Materials science technologist (degree) (level 6)

Equal to degree

Course contents

Utilise cognitive and practical skills in conjunction with adaptability and versatility in technical support both in-house and to clients to improve manufacturing processes, problem solving, innovation, and scale up formulations.
Determine and use industry standard and emerging digital technologies and data analysis tools to complete work activities and address problems that are ill defined or involve numerous interacting factors.
Critically evaluate actions, methodologies, and results and their implications in analysing materials against parameters in product specifications.
Conduct and interpret failure analysis of engineering components using relevant methodologies and systems such as but not limited to, for example, microscopy, macroscopy, and chemical analysis.
Write clear and succinct technical and analytical reports.
Research, adapt and test new technologies through materials characterisation feedback.
Interpret, develop and implement UK and international materials standards, procedures and specifications across a range of operations and contexts.
Maintain a working knowledge of a range of project management and financial management techniques to complete projects relevant to their discipline.
Utilise emotional intelligence and identify a range of supervisory, management, and leadership skills in developing the ability to mentor, direct or lead teams or individuals.
Communicate effectively with colleagues and stakeholders using the appropriate language register both verbally and in writing.
Utilise cognitive and practical skills in conjunction with adaptability and versatility in technical support both in-house and to clients to improve manufacturing processes, problem solving, innovation, and scale up formulations.
Determine and use industry standard and emerging digital technologies and data analysis tools to complete work activities and address problems that are ill defined or involve numerous interacting factors.
Critically evaluate actions, methodologies, and results and their implications in analysing materials against parameters in product specifications.
Conduct and interpret failure analysis of engineering components using relevant methodologies and systems such as but not limited to, for example, microscopy, macroscopy, and chemical analysis.
Write clear and succinct technical and analytical reports.
Research, adapt and test new technologies through materials characterisation feedback.
Interpret, develop and implement UK and international materials standards, procedures and specifications across a range of operations and contexts.
Maintain a working knowledge of a range of project management and financial management techniques to complete projects relevant to their discipline.
Utilise emotional intelligence and identify a range of supervisory, management, and leadership skills in developing the ability to mentor, direct or lead teams or individuals.
Communicate effectively with colleagues and stakeholders using the appropriate language register both verbally and in writing.

Your training plan

You will be required to attend Sheffield Hallam University on a series of study blocks.
The degree award is BEng (Hons) Materials Technology.

Requirements

Essential qualifications

A Level in:

Maths, Science or Engineering (grade BBC / Distinction Merit Merit)

Let the company know about other relevant qualifications and industry experience you have. They can adjust the apprenticeship to reflect what you already know.

Skills

Communication skills
Attention to detail
Problem solving skills
Analytical skills
Team working

Other requirements

Luxfer MEL Technologies is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and are an equal opportunity employer.

About this company

Luxfer MEL Technologies (LMT) is at the forefront of developing cutting-edge magnesium alloys and innovative zirconium materials for industries ranging from aerospace to healthcare. Join our world-class team at our Manchester site and become part of the future of advanced materials!

Disability Confident

A fair proportion of interviews for this apprenticeship will be offered to applicants with a disability or long-term health condition. This includes non-visible disabilities and conditions.

You can choose to be considered for an interview under the Disability Confident scheme. You’ll need to meet the essential requirements to be considered for an interview.

After this apprenticeship

Supportive and flexible working environment, helping you develop both professionally and personally
The chance to work with innovative materials at the cutting edge of technology
If you're ready to take the next step in your career and join a dynamic and growing company that values innovation, personal growth, and excellence, we'd love to hear from you.

Ask a question

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