Sika develops and supplies specialty chemicals for construction and industrial applications.
6 days ago
Entry-level
Full Time
Preston, England, United Kingdom
Onsite
Company Size
28,000 Employees
Service Specialisms
Sector Specialisms
As an R&D Apprentice you will initially support the day‑to‑day running of the laboratory, then progress to hands‑on product testing, application and synthetic chemistry work. In the latter half of the apprenticeship you will design experiments, analyse data and see your academic training applied in a real‑world industrial setting.
The apprenticeship is a Level 6 Scientist Degree Apprenticeship in Chemical Science, leading to a BSc (Hons) in Chemical Science awarded by Manchester Metropolitan University. The programme combines blended distance learning with weekly online sessions and an annual five‑day skills boot camp on the Manchester Metropolitan campus.
During the apprenticeship you will gain a strong understanding of industrial R&D, project management and commercial strategy, as well as hands‑on experience with safe chemical handling, polymer synthesis, FTIR and gas‑chromatography analysis, and formulation and performance testing of compounds.
Candidates should have a genuine interest in chemistry, strong communication skills, a positive, collaborative attitude and a willingness to keep learning. Minimum entry requirements are five GCSEs (including Maths and English) at grades 4 or above and either three A‑Levels (including Chemistry at grade C) or an equivalent Level 3 qualification such as a BTEC Extended Diploma.
Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship you will be eligible to apply for other positions within Sika’s global business.
Employment starts on 1 September 2026 with a London Living Wage, Monday‑Friday 8 am‑4 pm schedule, and a fixed‑term contract of 48 months. The role offers 25 days of holiday (rising to 28 days with service) plus bank holidays, a company pension contribution of up to 10 %, private healthcare, life cover at six times salary and a range of other benefits.
Sika is committed to your professional and personal development from day one. You will be mentored by the wider UK R&D network, receiving guidance and support in a culture that encourages openness, sharing successes and learning from mistakes.