Microbiologist - Laboratory technician Apprenticeship L3

Job Description

Kickstart Your Career as a Microbiologist Lab Technician with Cadburys [Mondelēz International]

Join Cadburys [Mondelēz International], the world’s leading maker of chocolate, biscuits, candy, and gum – home to iconic brands like Cadburys Dairy Milk, Creme Egg and Jelly Babies! We are offering a Level 3 Lab Technician Apprenticeship that blends hands-on experience with classroom learning to equip you with the skills to excel in a dynamic, high-tech lab environment.

This Apprenticeship will prepare you to deliver microbiological and food quality project programmes within a lab environment. Based at the home of Cadburys, Bournville you will work with our QA microbiology lab which serves our Bournville, Chirk and Marlbrook manufacturing plants. Working and learning alongside experienced microbiology technicians alongside a team leader - you will support the QA lab and quality function continue to improve, plan for the future and focus on what matters most.

What to Expect

This is more than just an apprenticeship—it’s a journey to becoming a knowledgeable Microbiologist Lab Technician in the UK’s largest manufacturing sector. From learning how we carry out routine microbiological analysis of raw materials to the implementation and maintenance of preparing samples for analysis, every day will bring new challenges and opportunities.

How you will contribute

• All employees will be expected to carry out their duties with the highest regard for Health & Safety and to contribute to the overall H&S culture within BV QA laboratory. This can be achieved by adhering to Standard Operating Procedures and Risk Assessments and where applicable reporting/escalating safety concerns & near misses through the appropriate channels.

• This role is responsible for delivering microbiological and food quality project programme within a lab environment. It is based in and contributes to the Bournville QA microbiology lab which serves the Bournville, Chirk and Marlbrook manufacturing plants.

• Monday to Friday (8am – 4pm)

Primary Accountabilities / Responsibilities

• Media preparation, be involved in equipment calibration daily, general laboratory house keeping

• Sample preparation

• Environmental Swabbing

• Ensure compliance to the Mondelez GLP standard.

• Basic maintenance of laboratory equipment.

• Admin and revision of existing documents

• Waste management

• Stock Control

• Sample collection: Subject to licence. (Company Van available)

Long term Development

• Carry out routine microbiological analysis of raw materials, WIP, and finished product to the agreed specifications and sampling rates.

• PCR analysis.

• Implementation and maintenance of the Environmental Sampling Programme (to include sampling and data analysis)

• Preparation of samples for analysis and the associated testing matrices (eg media preparation).

• Accurate and timely results reporting in SAP (or external system for non-production samples).

• Data analysis, results reporting and interpretation.

• Participate in relevant QC and proficiency schemes.

• Provide cover and assistance for other laboratory staff as required.

• Assist the wider manufacturing quality department when required to support plant based GMP audits and external audits.

Skills required:

A desire to drive your future and accelerate your career and the following experience and knowledge:

• Excellent communication and relationship building skills, is effective using any form of media and on a 121 basis.

• Excellent eye for detail and is meticulous in their approach to data collation and interpretation.

• Good IT skills across a range of software packages

• Good house keeping skills

• Proactive in their approach to task and implementation of the job role expectations.

• Comfortable working within a lab environment and willing to work in factory environment if required.

• Proven ability to meet commitments in a timely fashion.

• Ability to adapt to a constantly changing quality environment.

• Flexible with respect to work hours

• Demonstrate awareness, understanding & working practice of equality within the workplace.

• Ability to maintain security & confidentiality.

• All lab activities are undertaken, structured and managed to safeguard impartiality.

• English fluency (written and spoken).

What We’re Looking For

• 5 GCSE Grade 4 or above (including English, Maths and Science)

• Excellent communication skills and a commitment to learning.

• Flexibility and a positive, team-oriented attitude.

During your apprenticeship

Programme structure:

Over the 2 years - you will be based onsite at Cadburys Bournville site where you will be supported day to day by your manager and buddy/mentor.

The majority of your learning will be completed online once a week with some face-to-face practical sessions/exams in Sutton Coldfield/Birmingham City Centre. Travel expenses will be covered for these sessions.

Training provider

Through the training provider, CSR Scientific Training, you will undertake a Level 3 Laboratory Technician Apprenticeship which will include:

• Fully recognised apprenticeship qualification –Level 3 Laboratory Technician

• On-the-job competency training

• Theoretical knowledge - BTEC Level 3 Applied Science (if required)

• Upon successful completion, apprentices can apply for professional registration as a Registered Science Technician, RSciTech, with either the Royal Society of Chemistry or Royal Society of Biology.

Application Process:

• Application deadline: 31st March 2025

• Interview Assessment Centre Day: Thursday 10th April 2025

• Start date: 12th May 2025

More about this role

Salary 18k-21k

Relocation Support Available?

Business Unit Summary

We value our talented employees, and whenever possible strive to help one of our associates grow professionally before recruiting new talent to our open positions. If you think the open position you see is right for you, we encourage you to apply!

Our people make all the difference in our succes

Mondelēz International is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation or preference, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Excited to grow your career?

We value our talented employees, and whenever possible strive to help one of our associates grow professionally before recruiting new talent to our open positions. If you think the open position you see is right for you, we encourage you to apply!

IF YOU REQUIRE SUPPORT TO COMPLETE YOUR APPLICATION OR DURING THE INTERVIEW PROCESS, PLEASE CONTACT THE RECRUITER

Job Type

Regular

Apprentices and Trainees

Early Careers