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

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