Process Industry Manufacturing Technician Apprenticeship

Preston, UK

Build the future of manufacturing with Sika

Engineering is changing. Manufacturing is becoming smarter, more automated, more sustainable, and more connected than ever before.

At Sika, we’re looking for curious, ambitious people who want to be part of that transformation.

This is the start of a career where you’ll help keep critical manufacturing operations running, learn from experienced operatives, and develop the technical skills that power global industry.

If you enjoy solving problems, understanding how things work, and learning hands-on in a fast-moving environment, we’d like to hear from you.

About Sika

Sika is a global leader in specialty chemicals, developing innovative solutions used across construction and industrial manufacturing worldwide.

From major infrastructure and transportation projects to advanced manufacturing technologies, our products help shape the modern world more sustainably and efficiently.

With operations in over 100 countries, more than 400 factories globally, and over 34,000 employees worldwide, Sika combines global innovation with strong local teams and long-term career opportunities.

At our Preston site, manufacturing plays a critical role in supporting safe, reliable, and efficient manufacturing operations delivering for our customers and our apprentices are an important part of that future.

About the Opportunity

Our Process Industry Manufacturing Apprenticeship is designed to develop the next generation of manufacturing talent.

You’ll join an experienced manufacturing team supporting a live manufacturing environment who are dedicated to manufacturing high quality products for our customers, delivering the excellence they expect from Sika.  From learning about the chemicals we handle and the products we manufacture, you’ll gain real-world manufacturing experience from day one.

Alongside practical site-based learning, you’ll complete day-release study towards a Level 3 qualification in Process Industry Manufacturing techniques.

This is an opportunity to build technical expertise, confidence, and professional experience within a global manufacturing business that invests heavily in development and innovation.

What You’ll Gain

Real Manufacturing Experience

Work alongside experienced operatives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment where your learning directly connects to real operational challenges.

Professional Development

Develop technical, problem-solving, and practical skills through hands-on experience and structured learning.

Mentorship & Support

You’ll be supported by a collaborative team committed to helping you grow, learn, and succeed throughout your apprenticeship journey.

A Long-Term Career Path

This role is designed to develop future engineering talent. Successful apprentices can progress into roles such as:

• Manufacturing Team Leader
• Manufacturing  Supervisor

The Culture You’ll Join

Safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement are at the heart of everything we do.

At Preston, you’ll join a team that values collaboration, accountability, and supporting each other to succeed. We’re proud of the environment we’ve created, one where apprentices are encouraged to contribute ideas, ask questions, and develop confidence from the very beginning.

We don’t expect you to know everything on day one.

We’re looking for potential, attitude, and willingness to learn.

What We’re Looking For

We’re interested in people who are:

• Curious about manufacturing and how things work
• Enjoy being active as this is a role where you are constantly on the go
• Motivated to learn and develop new skills
• Strong communicators and team players
• Committed to working safely and responsibly
• Problem-solvers who enjoy practical challenges
• Ready to work towards a Level 3 Process qualification

Essential Qualifications

• Grade 4/C or above in Maths and English
• Science-based subjects are advantageous, particularly Chemistry

Why Join Sika?

We believe great careers are built when people feel supported, challenged, and valued.

That’s why we offer a competitive reward package alongside genuine investment in your future.

Our Benefits Include:

• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
• Company pension contribution up to 10%
• Private healthcare
• Group life cover
• Enhanced maternity and paternity pay
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Employee discount platform
• Recognition awards for key milestones
• Access to learning and development through the global Sika Business School

You’ll also work a structured weekly schedule combining practical experience with dedicated learning time.

Start Your Engineering Career with Sika

If you’re ready to develop your skills, learn from experienced professionals, and build a long-term future in engineering, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply now and help shape the future of manufacturing.

We offer competitive salaries, aligned with local market benchmarks and the specific scope and responsibilities of each role. Compensation is determined based skills relevant to the position, education and/or training.  We are committed to fair and equitable pay practices in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.