Composites Technician Apprentice (Level 3)

Introduction

Join SGI Composites – a UK-leading GRP and FRP manufacturer based in Colchester – and earn while you learn. You will develop hands-on skills in composite manufacturing, working alongside experienced technicians to produce high-quality industrial and commercial composite products.

About the Employer

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.

What You'll Do

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

Training Outcome

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

Skills Required

• Communication skills
• Attention to detail
• Organisation skills
• Problem solving skills
• Administrative skills
• Analytical skills
• Logical
• Team working
• Creative
• Initiative
• Patience
• Physical fitness

Qualifications

• Essential - GCSE - maths and English - A*-C/9-4

Course Information

Course: Composites technician (level 3)

Level: 3

Route: Engineering and manufacturing

Apprenticeship Level: Advanced

Working Arrangements

Working Week: Monday to Friday, 7:45am - 5:00pm, with a 15-minute tea break and 30 minutes unpaid lunch break. Additional short breaks in line with Working Time Regulations 1998.

Expected Duration: 3 Years

Number of Positions Available: 2

Training Provider: COLCHESTER INSTITUTE