You could do a college course to learn some of the skills you'll need for this job. Courses include:

• Level 3 Certificate in Laboratory Technical Skills
• Level 3 Diploma in Engineering
• Level 3 Diploma in Applied Science
• T Level in Engineering, Manufacturing, Processing and Control

Entry requirements

You may need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level

To become a materials technician, you could do a Non-destructive Testing Level 2 Intermediate or Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.

You could also do a Composites Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

You could start as a lab assistant or trainee technician in a testing facility and train while you work to qualify.

Employers will expect you to have 4 or 5 GCSEs, including maths, English and a science, preferably physics or chemistry.

Some may want you to have A levels or equivalent qualifications in a subject such as applied science.

You'll need:

• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• maths knowledge
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• knowledge of chemistry including the safe use and disposal of chemicals
• knowledge of physics
• analytical thinking skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

As a materials technician, you may:

• test the strength and flexibility of materials under different conditions
• assess the cost, reliability, safety and environmental impact of materials
• research new ways to use materials in product development
• assess the risks posed by hazardous materials
• analyse test results and write reports

You could work in a laboratory, in a factory or in an office.

You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.