Apprenticeship ยท Level 7 ยท Biopharma

Laboratory Analyst

Laboratory analysts do precise testing in labs. This three-year apprenticeship suits people who enjoy maths and science and like accuracy.

How apprenticeships work: you are hired by an approved employer and paid while you learn, mixing work with blocks of training in a college or training centre. You don't apply through the CAO and you don't need CAO points.

Key facts

How long
3 years
Award
QQI Level 7 Ordinary Bachelor of Science Degree โ€“ Laboratory Analyst
Where you train
  • Higher education institution (off-the-job training); managed by Ibec / BioPharmaChem Ireland
Pay
Salary from your employer while training on-the-job and off-the-job (rate agreed with employer)
Costs
Student contribution payable to the higher education institution over the three years (amount not stated on the page)

Entry requirements

  • Must be hired by an approved employer
  • Full eligibility criteria are in the Laboratory Analyst Apprenticeship brochure

How to apply

You must be hired by an approved employer. You can express your interest on the Laboratory Apprenticeships website, which is run by Ibec.

Express your interest (Laboratory Apprenticeships) โ†— Official page on apprenticeship.ie โ†—

What you'll learn

  • Prepare for lab tasks using the right scientific methods
  • Collect samples, calibrate equipment and prepare solutions
  • Run basic and advanced tests such as water testing, chromatography and microbiology
  • Work safely and follow company quality systems
  • Operate lab instruments to standard procedures

Where it can lead

  • Lab work in biopharma and chemical manufacturing
  • Medical devices and diagnostics labs
  • Food and drink and analytical testing labs

Useful Leaving Cert subjects

Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Physics and Chemistry

These help with the content of the programme; they are not entry requirements unless listed above.

Other Biopharma apprenticeships

Tertiary degrees in Chemical Science

Not sure which route suits you?

Our CAO Interest Test matches you to course areas, and now shows apprenticeships and tertiary degrees in your strongest areas too.

Take the CAO Interest Test โ†’ Try the free 3-minute test

Information from apprenticeship.ie, checked November 2026. Details can change, so always confirm on the official page before applying.