Labratory Technician Apprenticeship

About the course

Brief Description

S41 7LG A Dental Laboratory Technician Apprentice learns to design, create, and repair dental appliances under the supervision of experienced technicians. These appliances include crowns, bridges, dentures, orthodontic devices, and implants. The role combines hands-on craftsmanship, science, and increasingly digital technology (CAD/CAM systems).

Qualifications Required

GCSEs in Maths, English, and a science subject (or equivalent) at grade 4-9 or equivalent.

Personal Qualities

- Ability to work unsupervised following a planned work schedule
- Writing and numeracy skills
- Familiarity with computers / keyboards / typing skills
- Word, Excel, Access – statistics, graphs, data analysis
- General awareness of importance of safety, and in particular safety issues of working in a laboratory.

Skills Required

- Ability to work unsupervised following a planned work schedule
- Basic writing and numeracy skills
- Familiarity with computers / keyboards / typing skills
- Word, Excel, Access – statistics, graphs, data analysis
- General awareness of importance of safety, and in particular safety issues of working in a laboratory.

Training to be Provided

Laboratory Technician Level 3

Future Prospects

Because of the technical experience you will gain from working in a laboratory, you will gain skills which many graduates have yet to develop. If you have practical ability, ability to solve problems and good communication skills there are opportunities for progression towards higher qualifications.

Vacancy Detail

Dental Laboratory Technician Apprentice – Job Description (Chesterfield)
Key Responsibilities

As an apprentice, you’ll gradually take on tasks like:
Laboratory Work
• Assisting in the creation of:
• Dentures (full and partial)
• Crowns and bridges
• Orthodontic appliances (e.g., braces components)
• Preparing moulds and casts from dental impressions
• Trimming, shaping, and polishing dental appliances
• Mixing materials like plaster, acrylic, or ceramics

Digital & Technical Skills:
• Learning to use CAD/CAM software for designing restorations
• Operating lab equipment such as 3D printers and milling machines
• Following precise measurements and technical specifications

Quality & Safety:
• Maintaining strict hygiene and infection control standards
• Checking finished appliances for accuracy and quality
• Following health and safety procedures in the lab

Communication & Organisation:
• Interpreting prescriptions from dentists
• Labelling and tracking cases
• Working to deadlines to meet patient needs
Skills & Qualities Needed
• Good manual dexterity and attention to detail
• Interest in science, design, or healthcare
• Ability to follow precise instructions
• Patience and focus
• Basic IT skills (especially for digital dentistry)
• Teamwork and communication skills

Working Environment
• Based in a dental laboratory (not usually patient-facing)
• Work is often bench-based with tools and digital equipment
• Typical hours: full-time, Monday–Friday

Career Progression
After completing the apprenticeship, you can:
• Become a qualified Dental Technician
• Specialise in areas like:
• Crown & bridge work
• Orthodontics
• Prosthetics (dentures)
• Move into senior, supervisory, or lab management roles
• Start your own dental lab business

Apply now