Composites Technician Apprentice (Level 3)
SGI Composites · Colchester · posted 16 July 2026
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Role responsibilities will include:
- Prepare composite materials including GRP and FRP laminates, resins, and fibreglass in line with production schedules and quality specifications
- Operate hand lay-up and spray-up moulding processes under the supervision of senior technicians, developing proficiency in a range of composite manufacturing techniques
- Assist in the fabrication, trimming, and finishing of composite components such as tanks, bunds, enclosures, anti-slip systems, and architectural mouldings
- Support site installation activities including the application of protective linings and coatings to industrial structures such as storage tanks, bund walls, and cooling towers
- Carry out surface preparation tasks including abrasive blasting and cleaning of substrates prior to lining or coating application, following COSHH and PPE requirements at all times
- Conduct quality checks on finished components, identifying and reporting defects or non-conformances to the Production Manager
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organised workshop environment, adhering to all health & safety protocols, site-specific safety procedures, and SGI Composites’ company standards
- Complete all apprenticeship off-the-job learning requirements and portfolio evidence as required by the apprenticeship standard
- Support the team across multiple product lines including spill containment, enclosures, furniture and planters, and anti-slip grating as business needs require
- Participate in continuous improvement activities and contribute ideas to enhance production quality and efficiency
Your training
- The apprentice will be working towards the Level 3 Composites Technician Apprenticeship Standard
- This is a 3 year apprenticeship with college attendance required one day per week
- All college attendance will be at Colchester Institute at our Colchester Campus one day per week
Where it leads
SGI Composites has a strong track record of developing apprentices into long-term team members. Several current senior staff – including the Operations Manager, Production Manager, and Technical Specialist – started their careers as trainees with the business.
On successful completion of the Level 3 Composite Technician Apprenticeship, opportunities may include:
- Progression to a permanent Composite Technician role
- Specialist development in site installation, laminates, or coatings
- Pathway toward supervisory or senior technical roles
- Further qualifications in composites or engineering disciplines
About SGI Composites
SGI Composites (formerly Sui Generis) is a UK-leading manufacturer of high-performance GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) and FRP (Fibre Reinforced Polymer) composite solutions, based in Colchester, Essex. Established in 1996, the business has grown from a specialist fibreglass mouldings company into a diverse composite solutions provider recognised internationally for its quality and expertise.
The company specialises in bespoke component manufacturing, protective linings and coatings, anti-slip systems, spill containment, enclosures, and composite furniture and planters – serving clients across industrial, construction, transport, rail, and architectural sectors.
SGI Composites is part of The Milbank Group and holds a range of accreditations including Achilles UVDB Silver+, RISQS, SafeContractor, and Constructionline Gold. The business is proud to be a British manufacturer with a long-standing reputation for technical excellence, personal service, and reliable delivery.
With long staff retention and a culture of growing talent from within, SGI Composites offers a genuinely supportive environment for apprentices to build a lasting career in composites manufacturing.
Things to consider
This role involves working in a manufacturing environment and may include:
- Working with chemical resins, fibreglass materials, and industrial coatings – full PPE will be provided
- Occasional travel to customer sites across the UK for installation projects
- Working outdoors or in confined/industrial spaces on certain site-based activities
- Physical elements including lifting, standing for extended periods, and manual handling
- Adherence to strict health & safety procedures at all times
All apprentices will receive full health & safety induction and ongoing H&S training.
Skills they're looking for
Entry requirements
- GCSE maths and English (grade A*-C/9-4) — essential
Where you'll work
- The Chandler Centre, Hythe Quay, Colchester, CO2 8JF
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