Apprentice Laboratory Support Assistant

🔒 Confidential Employer
Posted 7 May 2026
LOCATION
Montrose
TYPE
Full-time
LEVEL
Entry-level
SALARY
£22,900 / year
CATEGORY
Science & Research
This employer holds a UK Home Office sponsor license — sponsorship for this specific role is at the employer’s discretion

SKILLS

Laboratory housekeeping 5S methodology ALCOA+ principles Waste management COSHH compliance Glassware handling Stock control Health & Safety compliance

FULL DESCRIPTION

Apprentice Laboratory Support Assistant

[Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] is seeking an Apprentice Laboratory Support Assistant to support laboratory operations at GSK Montrose. The role involves lab housekeeping, waste management, glassware preparation, stock control, and compliance with health, safety, and quality standards. The apprenticeship includes a Life Sciences qualification (SCQF Level 7) over 24 months.

  • Location: GSK, Cobden Street, Montrose, Angus, Scotland, DD10 8EA
  • Salary: £21,900 - £22,900 per year
  • Employment: Full-time
  • Ref: 94065

What You'll Be Doing

As an Apprentice Lab Support Assistant, you'll play a key role in supporting the day-to-day operations of laboratories at GSK Montrose, part of a global pharmaceutical organisation at the forefront of scientific innovation. This is a unique opportunity to gain experience in a regulated laboratory environment, supporting work that has real-world impact on health and wellbeing. You'll help ensure lab environments remain safe, organised, compliant, and audit-ready.

Laboratory Support & Housekeeping

  • Supporting daily lab operations to maintain clean, organised, and efficient workspaces
  • Carrying out 5S activities (sort, set in order, shine, standardise, sustain)
  • Checking expiry dates and ensuring correct labelling in line with ALCOA+ principles
  • Cleaning and maintaining lab equipment such as drying cabinets and fume cupboards

Waste & Environmental Management

  • Assisting with the safe collection and disposal of laboratory waste, including hazardous materials
  • Supporting solvent waste disposal and identifying any issues or non-conformances
  • Escalating spills, risks, or concerns in line with site procedures

Glassware & Equipment

  • Cleaning, inspecting, and preparing laboratory glassware
  • Ensuring glassware is stored correctly and safely
  • Identifying and disposing of damaged items in line with procedures

Stock & Consumables

  • Supporting stock control of chemicals, solvents, and lab consumables
  • Receiving, labelling, and storing deliveries correctly
  • Ensuring all materials are stored safely in line with COSHH and site standards

Specialist Support

  • Assisting with liquid nitrogen refills under supervision and strict safety procedures
  • Supporting environmental monitoring activities and data logging systems

Health, Safety & Compliance

  • Working in full compliance with Health & Safety, Quality, and Environmental standards
  • Following Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS)
  • Maintaining accurate, compliant records
  • Supporting internal and external audits

Training & Qualification

You'll complete a Life Sciences and Related Industries qualification (SCQF Level 7) over 24 months. Your training will include day release at Ayrshire College, hands-on experience within a live laboratory environment, support from experienced colleagues and technical specialists, and access to learning resources and development through [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal]'s Learning Hub. Our dedicated Apprenticeship Team will support you throughout your journey.

Could You Be Our Next Apprentice?

We're looking for motivated, curious individuals who are ready to learn, get hands-on, and build a career in a fast-paced laboratory environment. To thrive in this role, you'll need:

  • To be 18 or over with a full driving licence
  • A good level of physical fitness – this is an active, on-your-feet role
  • GCSEs in Maths and English (Grades 4–9 or equivalent), or Scottish National 5 certificates (Grade A–C) – a Science subject is a bonus
  • A strong willingness to learn, with a reliable and positive attitude
  • The ability to follow procedures accurately and consistently
  • Confidence to communicate clearly and raise concerns when needed
  • The ability to work both independently and as part of a team
  • A keen eye for detail and a commitment to safety and quality standards

Desirable (but not essential): Previous experience in a laboratory, manufacturing, or regulated environment.

What You'll Gain

This isn't just a job, it's a launchpad. You'll receive structured training, hands-on experience in a regulated laboratory environment, and the opportunity to grow your career within scientific services, supported every step of the way. No prior experience? No problem. Bring your curiosity and work ethic, and we'll help you build the rest.

Benefits

  • Pension
  • Life Assurance
  • Cycle to Work Scheme
  • Employee Shares Schemes
  • Salary Finance Options
  • Holiday

Since 1987, [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal]'s 80,000 employees have been maintaining companies globally. We are the UK's leading facilities management and professional services company, and our clients range from household names in banking, critical government sites as well as hospitals and schools. Join our [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] Team. Together our diversity makes us stronger.

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