Level 3 (at end of programme) equivalent to BTEC/A-Levels
18 – 30 months duration
depending on prior learning & off-site-training
£22,000 funding band minimum
available from Apprenticeship Levy
Level 3 Science Manufacturing Technician (Biotechnology)
Working as part of a multi-disciplinary team focusing on operating the systems and equipment involved in the production of advanced therapeutics and complex medicines.
Occupation Summary
Biotechnology manufacturing technicians produce biological products such as proteins, antibodies, and DNA, which will be used in pharmaceuticals. The final product may be solid or liquid and may be filled into small volume bottles or large bulk containers. Typically, batch processing is used. They may work in a controlled environment, such as laboratory or clean room, or production facilities. Biotechnology has an important role to play in helping to address many global problems, such as climate change. For example, synthetic biology is already contributing to the development of many biological systems producing drugs, chemicals, and fuels without using fossil fuels.
Typical job roles may include: Aseptic Process Technician, API Manufacturing Technician, Cleanroom Technician, Process Operating Technician, Quality Assurance Technician, Science Technician, Environmental Monitoring Technician.
Knowledge:
The science manufacturing technician will develop a knowledge of products, production methods, and customer requirements. Key competencies include understanding batch and continuous processes, equipment operation, process control, and quality assurance. The science manufacturing technician will work to high standards through the application of standard operating procedures, cleanroom and aseptic protocols, and regulatory compliance such as GMP and MHRA requirements. They will develop a strong grasp of health, safety, and environmental practices in line with legislation such as COSHH, RIDDOR, and the Health and Safety at Work Act, and understand the importance of managing hazards through PPE, risk assessments, and emergency procedures. For a full list of the knowledge the science manufacturing technician will develop, please view the entire occupational standard held by Skills England.
Skills:
The science manufacturing technician will demonstrate the safe and efficient planning and execution of tasks by following instructions, identifying hazards, and applying relevant health, safety, environmental, and sustainability procedures. They will operate within controlled environments, performing pre-checks, setting process parameters, and using equipment for production, cleaning, and maintenance. They will demonstrate competence in equipment calibration, data interpretation, in-process testing, and quality assurance checks. They will also use digital tools for data entry, communication, and documentation while adhering to cybersecurity and GDPR requirements. They will demonstrate strong problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills, continuous improvement, and compliance with standard operating procedures across all stages of manufacturing. For a full list of the skills the science manufacturing technician will demonstrate, please view the entire occupational standard held by Skills England.
Behaviours:
The science manufacturing technician will demonstrate a strong commitment to safety, quality, and regulatory compliance, consistently following procedures and escalating issues when necessary. They will take responsibility for their work, show attention to detail, and maintain high levels of accuracy and integrity. The technician will be adaptable, respond positively to change, and contribute to continuous improvement. They will work effectively both independently and as part of a team, communicate clearly, respect equality and diversity, and take ownership of their personal development to enhance performance and support organisational goals. For a full list of behaviours the science manufacturing technician, please view the entire occupational standard held by Skills England.
Entry requirements
- Typically apprentices will hold Level 2 qualifications, equivalent to 5 GCSE’s above Grade C/4 providing the appropriate background to support learning at Level 3.
- Apprentices without Level 2 English and maths will need to achieve this level prior to endpoint assessment.
- For those with an education, health and care plan, the English and maths minimum requirement is entry Level 3.
Progression routes
- Following successful completion of endpoint assessment the apprentice will operate as a Science Technician.
- At the end of this apprenticeship apprentices will have achieved a Level 3 apprenticeship with a BTEC in Applied Sciences.
- The apprenticeship is aligned with professional registration at RSciTech/EngTech with Science & Engineering Councils.
- Further apprenticeships and academic learning at Level 5 and 6 can be achieved following completion of this apprenticeship.
Training providers:
Training provider analysis
This is an established apprenticeship standard designed by Life Science Employers in 2014 with many apprentices completing the programme successfully. Training provider analysis revealed one independent provider able to deliver the apprenticeship including an Applied Sciences BTEC using a blended learning approach, on-line classroom & practical summer schools.
Next steps
This programme starts in September 2025 and is recruiting now.
For more information, please contact us at apprenticeshipsinfo@ct.catapult.org.uk