Quality Control Laboratory Apprentice

Overview

Takeda offers a unique apprenticeship opportunity to join their Quality Control (QC) Laboratory team, gaining practical experience and thorough training within a pharmaceutical environment that is innovative and patient-focused. This role supports personal and professional development while contributing to global health advancements.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate laboratory instruments and equipment correctly in accordance with established standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Maintain a safe and compliant working environment inside the laboratory.
• Apply theoretical scientific knowledge relevant to QC technologies and processes.
• Handle laboratory materials and equipment with care, observing safety and environmental guidelines.
• Perform basic chemistry techniques such as pipetting, titration, pH measurement, weighing, dilution, volumetric calculations, Karl Fischer titration, thin layer chromatography, and physical testing.
• Detect and report any equipment malfunctions to the QC Team Leader promptly.
• Complete accident reports and near miss documentation in a timely manner.
• Engage actively in cross-functional training programs and promote Takeda's corporate values in daily work.
• Ensure all SOP readings, trainings, and assessments are completed on schedule.
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisors.

Knowledge and Skills Gained

• Foundations in basic chemistry, microbiology, and pharmaceutical production methods (both upstream and downstream processes).
• Understanding of current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), quality systems, Good Laboratory Practice (GLP), GMP deficiencies, and data integrity principles.
• Safe laboratory operations, including housekeeping, laboratory labelling, calibration, and equipment use.
• Procedures for handling, logging, and testing samples, including water, raw materials, in-process, and finished products.
• Familiarity with pharmacopoeia standards and investigation processes such as Out of Specification (OOS) analysis.
• Knowledge of QC purchasing processes, supplier communication, and reporting protocols.

Personal Development

• Enhance communication skills and teamwork abilities.
• Develop strong technical writing capabilities.
• Learn to work independently and take initiative in accomplishing tasks.
• Build awareness of diversity, equality, and the effect of one's work on others.
• Manage time efficiently and meet deadlines.
• Adapt to change and participate in change management activities.

Candidate Requirements

• Entry into year 1 of the Level 6 Quality Control Apprenticeship requires passing five Leaving Certificate subjects at Grade O6 or better, including mathematics and a science subject, with a minimum CAO score of 250 points; alternately, holders of relevant FETAC Level 5 or 6 qualifications who are current employees with related experience may apply.
• Apprentices must have SOLAS apprentice approval before enrolling in the programme.
• Familiarity with health, safety, and environmental standards.
• Ability to share knowledge and work collaboratively within teams.
• Demonstrated integrity and compliance with corporate programs.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities.
• Competency in Microsoft Excel and Word.
• Basic knowledge of mathematics and statistics.
• Commitment to continuous professional development.

Benefits Provided by Takeda

• Flexible working options such as hybrid or shift work with shift bonuses.
• 26 annual vacation days plus additional leave for service milestones.
• Employee Assistance Program availability.
• Wellbeing and engagement initiatives.
• Opportunities for personal and career development.
• Formal education and training programs.
• Coaching and mentoring support.
• Leave options for humanitarian volunteering.
• Subsidized on-site canteen amenities.
• Access to electric vehicle charging facilities in parking areas.

Additional Information

Takeda is committed to fostering diversity and providing equal opportunities regardless of ethnicity, gender identity, disability, or other protected characteristics. Applicants with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or neurodiversity are encouraged to request necessary accommodations during the application process.

Location: Bray, County Wicklow, Ireland. Reporting directly to the QC Team Leader, this full-time apprenticeship position is classified as employee trainee fixed-term.