Materials Testing Technician Apprentice (Level 6) - Darvick Ltd

Department: Science Apprenticeship - Materials L6

Employment Type: Apprentice

Location: Brierley Hill

Compensation: £24,000 - £27,000 / year

Description

  Location: Unit D1, Brierley Hill DY5 1QA

Please be aware this apprenticeship will be starting at the end of September. 

Working for Darvick Ltd

At Darvick Ltd, we're redefining the boundaries of materials testing. As a specialist provider of independent sub-contract testing services, we work with cutting-edge clients to deliver bespoke solutions for non-standard, complex, and extreme environments — from cryogenic and elevated temperatures to high-pressure, gaseous, and steam conditions.

Darvick Ltd is an independent, sub-contract testing laboratory. We have UKAS flexible scope accreditation (Lab 26942), and Rolls Royce Technical Approval for tests we carry out for them as a customer.

We are a small company, with our own software, electronics and mechanical design staff, meaning we can respond quickly in-house to develop and deliver unique testing capability for customers.

Our speciality is non-standard, complex or extreme testing services and equipment, we are currently developing testing methods and equipment to support the hydrogen economy.

We are now seeking a practical and motivated individual to join our team as a Level 6 Materials Technician Apprentice! 
The Package

• Starting salary: £24,000 - £27,000 per annum (dependent on experience) 
• Working hours: 37 hours per week, Monday - Thursday 8am - 4.30pm, Fridays 8am - 1pm 
• 25 days annual leave (plus bank holidays) 
• Pension 
• Regular training and CPD opportunities 

What will I be doing as a Materials Technician Degree Apprentice?

As a Materials Testing Degree Apprentice, you will work towards a fully funded degree while gaining hands-on experience in materials testing and analysis. You'll be part of a dynamic laboratory and field team, conducting tests on metallic and composite materials, ranging from testing customer products such as horse saddles, grab rails, lifting hooks, to testing composites in high pressure steam environment, or testing materials in hydrogen environments.

• Working to the Company BS EN ISO 17025 Quality management system and UKAS accredited flexible scope accreditation
• Analysing customer requirements to specify testing jobs
• Testing and reporting of customer products and materials
• Operating, calibrating and maintaining test equipment and records
• Working as an integrated member of the team to agree and deliver organisational priorities
• Contribute to continuous improvement
• Participating in business wide projects
• Adopt safe working practices and undertake appropriate training in Health and Safety
• Maintain good housekeeping at all times

What could the future look like?
 There’s no limit to what you can achieve while working with Darvick. Their team is at the heart of what they do, and they are looking for someone who wants to play a key part in that long term. As a successful applicant, you have the potential to secure a full-time position with the business at the end of your apprenticeship, with a clear progression path into management.  Through practical ‘on-the-job’ training you’ll have the opportunity to learn new skills to provide competency and responsibility in carrying out testing and to help develop your career. There is a growing demand for skilled professionals who can ensure the quality and reliability of materials used in various sectors!  This apprenticeship program serves as a stepping stone towards a rewarding career in Materials, with the added opportunity to become a registered Technician (RSci Tech) and paves the way for further professional development into management positions such as more specialised roles or progress into leadership positions. 

Rest assured, your hard work and determination will be recognised! 

Skills, Knowledge, and Experience

About You

This is a very hands on and practical role that offers a clear progression path into management, so we’re looking for someone who’s eager to learn and grow. 
You will have an absolute passion for chemistry and materials, with a genuine enthusiasm for learning and a strong desire to pick up new knowledge quickly. A hands-on, curious mindset is key — if you've ever enjoyed working with machinery, used a spanner, or simply love science, you'll thrive in this role.

You will have strong practical skills and a proactive attitude, eager to get stuck in and contribute from day one. As part of a small, close-knit team, it’s crucial that you are a clear communicator with a down-to-earth approach, ready to collaborate and support others.

You will have the confidence to trust your abilities, make sound decisions, and take ownership of your work. Being a team player with a positive, can-do attitude will be essential to your success in this dynamic and rewarding environment.
Qualifications:

• A-Level (or equivalent Level 3 qualification) in Chemistry/Applied Science

Please note, due to the nature of this role, you must be aged 18+ to apply. We can only accept candidates who live within a 45 minute commute to site.

So how does the apprenticeship work?

Our Degree Apprenticeships (Level 6) are designed to provide fearless scientists in the making with a head start in their chosen career. Giving you the best of both worlds, you’ll receive a recognised and accredited qualification whilst obtaining hands on practical experience.

Why Tiro?

At Tiro, we’ve partnered with Middlesex University to offer a variety of degree apprenticeship programs in the field of science including Applied Materials Sciences. Our programs are designed to give you the best of both worlds: academic learning and practical training that will set you up for success in your chosen career path.

Our programs are designed to offer an alternative to graduate schemes, providing opportunities for ambitious and driven individuals with exceptional talent in STEM to progress their careers while also earning a salary.
So how does the apprenticeship work?

At Tiro we’re obsessed with changing lives through science and technology apprenticeships so we can’t wait to have you on board.  Over 36 months, you will develop your knowledge and skills in your chosen field to become a leader pushing development, knowledge generation and innovation.

You will be provided with 6 hours per week by your employer to conduct learning and training during working hours. This can include theory training (for example, virtual lessons & online learning), alongside practical training (for example shadowing, mentoring, & time spent writing assignments.

You’ll be trained by a team of expert tutors from Tiro as well as an experienced workplace mentor at Darvick Ltd who, together, will make sure you develop the knowledge, skills, and work habits you’ll need to succeed in your career. Entry requirements

While we never want to hinder your job application process with obstacles, there are some minimum requirements you’ll need to meet in order to do an apprenticeship, these are rules set by the UK Government.

As a training provider, we are committed to ensuring that our apprenticeship programs deliver significant new knowledge and skills. To be eligible, applicants must demonstrate that the program will provide learning and experiences beyond their current qualifications and professional expertise.   

If you already hold a degree or equivalent higher-level qualification in a closely related field, or possess substantial relevant experience, you may not be eligible for apprenticeship funding, as these programmes are designed for individuals who require upskilling or reskilling in their chosen career pathway. You’ll need to be over 18, not in full time education, have lived in the UK for 3 years and have the right to work in the UK.
Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to earn a degree, gain work experience, and set yourself up for a bright future.