Location: Unit 17, Northbrook Business Park, Northbrook Road, Worthing, West Sussex, BN14 8PQ
Expected Start Date: ASAP
Working for Crucial Environmental
Crucial Environmental Limited is a UK-wide leader in asbestos and hazardous material services, committed to delivering professional, compliant and dependable solutions for commercial, domestic and industrial clients. Incorporated in 2012 and headquartered in Worthing, West Sussex, we are a privately-owned environmental specialist with bases across the country, offering nationwide coverage from the South East to the Midlands and the North of England.
The Package
Starting salary of £23,000/year - £27,000/year (Depending on age and experience)
Monday – Friday
Starting from 0800-0900, finishing 1600-1700
Company pension scheme
Regular training and CPD opportunities
Key Responsibilities
We are pleased to offer an opportunity for an Asbestos Laboratory Technician Apprentice to join the team, supporting day-to-day laboratory operations including sample preparation, asbestos fibre identification, microscopy and accurate recording of analytical results in line with quality and regulatory standards.
This apprenticeship provides a strong foundation for a future career in asbestos analysis and laboratory science, offering the opportunity to develop a broad range of practical and technical skills while gaining hands-on experience in a professional, quality-focused laboratory environment:
Receive, log and prepare laboratory samples ready for analysis.
Learn and carry out appropriate sample preparation techniques in line with laboratory procedures.
Develop practical skills in the use of stereo and polarised light microscopy.
Learn how to identify different types of asbestos fibres, including chrysotile, amosite and crocidolite.
Accurately record laboratory activities, sample information and analytical results.
Enter, review and maintain analytical information within laboratory systems.
Assist with the preparation and production of laboratory certificates and documentation.
Support the maintenance, checking and general care of laboratory equipment.
Maintain a clean, tidy and safe laboratory environment at all times.
Take part in internal quality control exercises to help ensure accurate and reliable analytical results.
Follow the company's documented laboratory procedures and Quality Management System (QMS).
Develop an understanding of ISO/IEC 17025 requirements relevant to the role.
Learn about key quality requirements including impartiality, confidentiality, equipment control, sample handling and record keeping.
Understand how nonconforming work is identified, recorded and managed within a regulated laboratory environment.
Develop an understanding of the importance of producing technically valid, accurate and reliable analytical results.
Complete all analytical work under appropriate supervision and checking while developing competency.
Take on increasing levels of responsibility as your knowledge, practical skills and confidence develop.
Work towards demonstrating competency and gaining formal authorisation to carry out relevant laboratory activities independently.
About You
You’re someone who enjoys focused, detailed work and takes pride in accuracy. You like understanding exactly what you’re looking at and why it matters, rather than just following steps. Whether you’ve explored science before or are just starting out, you’re motivated to build real knowledge and develop a career in a laboratory environment where precision and consistency are essential.
You’re most comfortable in a structured setting, you like clear procedures, predictable routines, and knowing what good looks like. Working with microscopes, analysing samples, and carefully identifying and recording results feels satisfying rather than repetitive. You’re patient, methodical, and able to concentrate for long periods on detailed tasks because you understand that accuracy and consistency are critical to producing reliable outcomes.
You approach your work with a calm, disciplined mindset and take responsibility for following procedures and maintaining high standards. You’re confident working independently for extended periods, while also understanding the importance of quality checks and clear documentation. You’re motivated by producing precise, defensible results and are keen to build your skills over time, becoming a trusted specialist in a highly controlled laboratory environment. Please note: You must be 18+ due to the nature of the working environment
Please note: This role may be subject to background or security checks
Apprenticeship Eligibility
To apply for this apprenticeship, you must:
✔️ Be 18 or over ✔️ Not be in full-time education ✔️ Havelived in the UK for at least 3 years ✔️ Have the right to work in the UK
Apprenticeships are designed to provide new knowledge, skills and behaviours, so applicants should not already hold a Level 3, degree or higher qualification in a closely related subject, or have significant experience in the same field.
If you’re unsure whether you meet the criteria, we’d still love to hear from you - get in touch and we can advise you further.
