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For people, place, prosperity and planet, we deliver impact with measurement science

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Careers

Apprenticeships

A unique opportunity to kickstart your new career.

The place for you

Every day we are working towards making new discoveries that will shape every aspect of our daily lives. If you want to work alongside world-leading experts in an organisation that helps to save lives, protect the environment and enhance the quality of life in the UK, then the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is the place for you.

No two days are the same... every day we are working towards making new discoveries that will impact on every aspect of our daily lives. It's about challenging complexity and bringing clarity, and building relationships that make a difference.

We believe in nurturing the next generation of talented professionals. Whether you’re fresh out of school or looking to change career paths, our apprenticeship programmes offer a unique opportunity to kickstart your new career.

 

Working as an apprentice is rewarding, challenging and diverse. One of things I love most about my job is the responsibility we are given. Monday to Thursday we are in a lab and are expected to carry out experiments that people have spent time training us on.

Christine Thorogood NPL Junior Science Apprentice

How to apply

Most of our apprentice programmes start in September each year, with applications opening in Spring. Visit our careers site for vacancies or register your interest to sign up for alerts when apprenticeship vacancies become available.

Current vacancies


Earn and learn

Our apprenticeship programmes offer a compelling alternative to costly university degrees by allowing you to earn while you learn. You’ll gain practical, hands-on experience in your chosen field while receiving a competitive salary, all without the burden of student debt.

 

Confidence in the workplace

We seek to nurture and respect our people, supporting each other to grow, succeed and enjoy work. We help our apprentices to be confident in the workplace from day one. You receive training on effective communication, time management and how to work as part of a team. Many of our apprentices have gone on to permanent roles with us or secured part-funding towards a degree.

 

Being an apprentice at NPL has completely changed my life. Since coming to NPL I’ve really had that push to work which I didn’t have at college.

Ciaran Geraghty - NPL Engineering Apprentice

 

Are you ready to make an impact?

Push the boundaries of your education and skills, and make a difference to the biggest challenges facing the UK and beyond.

Careers Current vacancies