Packaging Sciences Apprentice

About the Role This apprenticeship will be based in Sonoco’s R&D centre in Wantage as part of the Packaging Sciences Department. You will support the assessment of packaging components, analysis of materials used, and the products packed within them, while pursuing a part-time distance learning Chemical Science BSc Hons degree with Manchester Metropolitan University. What You'll Do

• Pack Testing: Prepare model products to standard recipes and pack cans (filling, seaming and cooking) to industry standards.
• Open cans and prepare for examination.
• Manage workload and samples using appropriate IT systems: ensure full traceability of samples is maintained by clear and accurate documentation and labelling.
• Evaluate container, coating and product performance and record critical can performance indicators accurately, noting features of interest and relate observations to potential failure modes, investigating defects using appropriate tests and tools such as microscopy.
• Report results in formal reports, making clear conclusions.
• Analytical Chemistry: Use analytical techniques to support Sonoco’s business, customers, and project teams (may include sample preparation and dilution, microwave digestion, semi-automated titration, ion chromatography, inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, high performance liquid chromatography, microscopy).
• Customer & Factory Support: Sample labelling and storage; recording of sample information; sample photography and microscopy; use of various investigative and measurement techniques such as sample mounting and cross-section, dimensional measurements, leak testing, product analysis (pH, anions etc.); insightful interpretation and formal reporting in a timely manner of technical data with clear conclusions and recommendations for further actions where appropriate.
• Materials Qualifications: Use of various laboratory tests to assess the mechanical and chemical performance of coating and print systems; supporting the assessment of coating behaviour by simulant testing using Eviosys pilot fill. What We're Looking For
• Interest in packaging science, materials analysis and analytical chemistry, and a desire to learn through hands-on laboratory work and problem solving.
• Willingness to undertake a part-time distance learning Chemical Science degree (BSc Hons) with Manchester Metropolitan University.
• Ability to work across the R&D group, support multiple activities, and maintain clear documentation and traceability.
• Strong observation, data interpretation, and reporting skills, with the ability to draw clear conclusions and recommendations.
• Proactive, collaborative mindset and good organisational skills to manage workload and deadlines.