To bolster its fluid analysis capabilities and help farming businesses reduce downtime, Finning UK and Ireland has opened applications for its brand-new laboratory technician degree apprenticeship scheme.
This is the first non-engineering apprentice scheme the company has offered. The three-year programme will provide an opportunity for school leavers to complete a fully funded level 5 foundation degree from Leeds City University, graduating with no student debt.
Successful applicants will be paid a living wage and gain farming industry knowledge and experiences alongside their academic studies to help them with their future careers. The apprenticeship focuses on developing a broad set of skills by assisting full-time laboratory technicians, carrying out testing, performing calibrations and routine instrument maintenance.
“Fluid analysis is not a well-known career path in farming and this is something we want to change,” commented Marsha Myles, Apprenticeship Programme Manager at Finning UK & Ireland. “Behind the scenes laboratory work is vital in the farming industry because it tells us and our customers about faults with equipment that we can use to prevent costly, unexpected breakdowns.
“Finning is an equal-opportunities employer and we would love to receive applications from underrepresented groups in STEM,” continued Myles. “We have been reaching out to local schools to help promote STEM apprenticeships as potential career options. Laboratory Technician is an important and rewarding career choice and we are proud to have created this exciting opportunity for young people.”
The closing date for applications is the end of March. Interested parties can apply here.