Laboratory Engineer Degree Apprentice - Materials Science

RINA is a global management consultancy, providing engineering solutions to the Industrial, Defence, Energy, Marine, Transport and Infrastructure sectors. Established over 160 years ago, we employ 6,000 talented professionals, operating across 70 countries.

Would you like to join a busy, materials-focused Laboratory Test and Analytics Team? We are looking for an A Level student to join RINA as a Degree Apprentice, where you will join a four-year programme as an employee, and obtain a BSC Hons degree in Materials Science (Level 6) concurrently.

Based in our friendly office in Leatherhead, you’ll find yourself supporting a range of laboratory test projects, working on products such as underwater cables, propellors and turbines. You will be a part of the team which provides comprehensive test analysis, often diagnosing complex component and system failures. For instance, you will be tasked with working on a diverse range of equipment and be involved in testing for X-Ray Fluorescence and Infra-Red Spectroscopy and measuring chemical and conductivity levels.

This opportunity is ideal for an inquisitive and motivated school leaver with a flair for problem-solving who is looking to enhance your technical skillset whilst building a successful career in Materials Science.

Reporting to the Laboratory Manager, accountabilities include:

• The strip-down of consumer electrical and electronic products
• Undertaking routine testing of engineered components/items
• Acquiring macro and stereo microscope images of components
• Supporting preparation of liquid samples and extracts
• Electrical testing and materials and chemical analysis
• Laboratory maintenance activities, ensuring a clean working environment
• Managing, maintaining and auditing laboratory consumables (i.e. chemicals, solvents, PPE etc).

Qualifications required:

• 5 GCSEs: must include English, Maths and a Science (all Grade 5 or above)
• 3 A Levels, must include one Science subject (Minimum predicted grades: B,C,C)

Beyond academic qualifications we are looking for individuals with strong problem-solving, analytical and logical mind-sets.

What is in it for you:

• Work life balance – our hybrid working policy allows for flexible working when agreeable
• Expert managerial support and mentorship and ‘on the job’ training
• Virtual degree modules aligned to work projects
• A starting salary of £24K with incremental rises
• Company benefits including private health insurance, retail and gym membership discounts, 25 days holiday and many more perks
• No university or degree costs.

The Recruitment Process

1. Submit application
2. Online behavioural assessment and video interview
3. Pre-screening telephone interview
4. Assessment centre in our Leatherhead office (to include face to face interview, pre-prepared presentation, group task, written exercise, laboratory tour)
5. Start date: September 2025.

At RINA, we endeavor to create a work environment where every single person is valued and encouraged to develop new ideas. We provide equal employment opportunities and are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels respected and safe from discrimination or harassment of any kind. It is the policy of RINA to provide equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy) national origin, age, disabilities, marital status, sexual orientation, genetics, military status, disabled veterans, recently separated veterans, other protected veterans (veterans who served during a war or in a campaign or expedition for which a badge has been authorized), and Armed Forces service medal veteran, or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. We are strongly committed to this policy and believe in the concept and spirit of the law.

RINA does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruitment firms or agencies. Any resume submitted to any employee of RINA without a prior written service agreement will be considered unsolicited and the property of RINA.

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