QC Laboratory Apprentice (Athlone)

Introduction to role:

Are you ready to launch a laboratory career while earning a nationally recognized qualification that directly contributes to delivering life-changing medicines for people with rare conditions? Join us to learn in a GMP and GLP-certified biopharmaceutical environment while studying toward a Level 6 Higher Certificate in Science as a Laboratory Technician.

This two-year, blended apprenticeship is offered in partnership with IBEC and Technological University of the Shannon (Athlone Campus). You will spend three days each week in our Athlone Centre of Excellence laboratories and two days in academic study, with approval from SOLAS. From day one, you will be embedded in a quality team that supports late-stage and commercial products, guided by a dedicated QC mentor focused on your growth. Can you picture yourself mastering real laboratory techniques that keep our medicines safe and effective while building a strong foundation for your future?

Accountabilities:

• Sample Management: Collect, log, and ship samples to ensure the right materials reach the right tests at the right time, maintaining chain-of-custody and traceability.

• QC Testing Support: Perform pH checks and physical tests to generate reliable data that informs product release and process decisions.

• Equipment Readiness: Calibrate and verify instruments daily to keep the laboratory inspection ready and to ensure data integrity.

• Laboratory Operations: Maintain glassware and work areas to high standards, enabling efficient, safe, and compliant testing.

• Materials and Logistics: Order and track consumables and chemicals so analysts have what they need to keep testing on schedule.

• Raw Material Testing: Support incoming material checks to confirm quality prior to manufacturing use, reducing delays and deviations.

• Compliance and Documentation: Follow GMP/GLP practices and complete accurate records to meet regulatory expectations and support audits.

• Continuous Learning: Apply classroom theory in the lab, seek feedback from your mentor, and progressively take on more complex tasks that broaden your impact across chemistry, biochemistry, immunology, and microbiology workflows.

• Patient and Business Impact: Translate precise laboratory work into dependable quality decisions that safeguard patients and sustain supply for those who need our medicines most.

Essential Skills/Experience:

• A pass or Grade O6 in five leaving certificate subjects, two of which must be maths and a science related subject.

• 250 CAO points, and/or its equivalent (between 18 and under 23 years)

• Candidates with a FETAC Level 5 qualification in a related field will be considered,

• SOLAS Apprentice approval.

Desirable Skills/Experience:

• Curiosity about laboratory science and commitment to learning in a regulated environment.

• Attention to detail, strong organization, and a methodical approach to following procedures.

• Basic familiarity with laboratory safety, good documentation practices, or quality systems.

• Comfortable using standard office and data tools; willing to learn laboratory software.

• Effective communication and teamwork skills; openness to feedback and coaching.

• Any prior hands-on experience in a school, college, or industrial lab setting.

Why AstraZeneca:

Here, your work connects to a clear purpose—advancing medicines for people with rare and devastating diseases. You will learn alongside experienced scientists in state-of-the-art labs, with mentoring that helps you grow from foundational tasks to confident, independent contributions. Expect unexpected teams in the same room unleashing bold thinking—quality specialists, analytical scientists, and manufacturing partners collaborating to solve real problems at speed. We balance high standards with support, valuing kindness alongside ambition, and we invest in your development with a pathway that can progress to a Level 7 degree. Your precision and care will help protect patients and keep vital therapies moving.

Call to Action:

Start building a meaningful laboratory career—bring your curiosity and commitment and help us deliver quality medicines that matter. Apply Now!

Date Posted

12-Jun-2026

Closing Date

25-Jun-2026

Our mission is to build an inclusive and equitable environment. We want people to feel they belong at AstraZeneca and Alexion, starting with our recruitment process. We welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of characteristics. We offer reasonable adjustments/accommodations to help all candidates to perform at their best. If you have a need for any adjustments/accommodations, please complete the section in the application form.