Job Description

Reading Scientific Services Ltd (RSSL) is at the forefront of scientific analysis, research, consultancy and training. We provide services to the food, pharmaceutical and consumer goods industries, and the parent company Mondelez International. RSSL’s goal is to be a world class supplier of scientific services by offering scientific excellence coupled with industry leading customer service.

In 2022, RSSL were awarded Employer of the Year at the Great British Businesses and Community Awards, and our apprentices have also received awards from the Royal Society of Chemistry and been shortlisted for Apprentice of the Year at the Thames Valley Awards .

Our Laboratory Science Apprenticeship strikes the ideal balance between going to university and getting a job. You get to earn while you learn - backing up the classroom theory with practical training from industry experts. All in all, the perfect preparation for an incredible career with a fast-paced, diverse, and dynamic company.

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for highly motivated people with a real passion for science and determined to learn. No prior experience is needed as we’ll give you all the training you need to succeed. You’ll need to be able to work well in a team, as well as independently and have excellent communication skills.

What will you do?

We have two scientific apprenticeships available;

• Level 3 Laboratory Technician (more information here )
• Level 6 Laboratory Scientist (more information here ).

The first 24 months taught of both apprenticeships are the same, so we’ll work with you to determine which is most appropriate depending on what grades you achieve.

As a permanent member of staff, you will spend your first 24 months on a rotating training programme, working across our several different departments, to learn and carry out lab work. After 24 months, you’ll join a specific department where you’ll continue to grow and develop your skills.

To support your education, you will be eligible to utilise 20% of your time towards your studies. This could be one day a week, or you can save them up to use for revision and exams.

We have been recruiting apprentices since 2013, many of whom are still with the business. Each year we are recruit multiple apprentices, so you’ll get the chance to work and study together, across different functions and previous year groups.

Where will you be based and when will you start?

You will be based at one of our 3 sites, all of which house state of the art laboratories. These sites are the Reading Science Centre and JJT based on the University of Reading campus, and the third a short drive away in Wokingham.

We will begin interviews in April 2023 and the apprenticeship will begin in September 2023.

What benefits will you get?

In return for your work and dedication, you can look forward to;

• Competitive salary and annual bonus based on performance
• 35 days annual leave (including bank holidays)
• Access to world class scientific equipment
• The opportunity to work with and learn from highly qualified and experienced scientists
• Eligible for NUS Extra card providing you with discounts to many high street/online shops
• Contributory pension and flexible benefits programme
• Access to employee health and well-being programmes

Entry Criteria

You’ll need a good academic background to qualify for our apprentice program, including;

• 104 UCAS points, including a B or above in Chemistry (similar qualifications will be considered)
• A minimum of 5 GCSE’s (or equivalent) at grades 9-5, including a Science, Maths and English Language (not Literature)
• As part of the requirement for this role you will need to apply and be accepted on to the University course after an offer has been made by RSSL

Application Deadline - We recommend you apply as soon as possible. We will close this vacancy when we have enough applications, so please apply as soon as you can so your application can be considered.

RSSL website https://www.rssl.com/

YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/user/RSSLServices

LinkedIn page https://www.linkedin.com/company/reading-scientific-services-ltd-rssl/

Mondelēz is a diverse and inclusive employer with an objective to ensure a fair and equal hiring process. If you require any reasonable adjustments to apply or throughout our assessment process, please contact earlycareers@rssl.com stating “ RSSL Apprenticeship ” as the subject.

Business Unit Summary

Reading Scientific Services, Ltd. (RSSL) is a cutting-edge contract research organization (CRO), providing research, analysis and consultancy to the food and pharmaceutical sectors. Whether we are creating new products, validating medicines or solving investigations, we take pride in being a leader in our field, serving clients from across 60 countries.

We were recognized in 2019 as an Enlightened Employer, Women in Business and Thames Valley Tech finalists and in 2018, one of our family members earned the Food & Drink Federation’s Scientist of the Year. Enriched by our parent company, Mondelēz International, our diverse team of 300 includes 23 nationalities, creating a family feel as we strive toward our mission of “Science Enhancing Lives.”

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.

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