Microbiology Apprentice

• Location: Waterford
• Start date: 1st September 2026
• Duration: 3-5 years
• Work Model: Onsite – During term time, apprentices spend 3 days per week learning on the job at Sanofi Waterford and 2 days per week studying with our education partner, South East Technological University (SETU).

About the job 

Ready to start your career in science while earning, learning, and making a real impact? Join our Microbiology Apprenticeship at Sanofi Waterford and gain hands-on laboratory experience while studying towards a recognised qualification.

The programme is designed for those who wish to develop a career in a laboratory environment where employment is set to grow significantly over the next 3-5 years. Sanofi Waterford is ideally placed to facilitate, mentor and nurture new talent.

During term time you would work 3 days per week in our laboratory learning on the job while spending 2 days per week with our education partner, SETU.

Our Team

The Microbiology team is responsible for microbiology testing and laboratory activities that help ensure the quality and safety of medicines before they reach patients around the world.

About Sanofi

We’re an R&D-driven, AI-powered biopharma company committed to improving people’s lives and delivering compelling growth. Our deep understanding of the immune system – and innovative pipeline – enables us to invent medicines and vaccines that treat and protect millions of people around the world. Together, we chase the miracles of science to improve people’s lives.

Main responsibilities

• Gain hands-on experience performing microbiology testing that supports the production of life-changing medicines
• Prepare and analyse laboratory samples while learning how to record and interpret results
• Follow safe working practices to protect yourself, others, and the environment
• Help maintain laboratory equipment and contribute to a safe, efficient working environment
• Learn how to document your work clearly and follow established procedures
• Work closely with team members while also building confidence to complete tasks independently
• Take part in training and apply your learning both in the lab and during your studies

About you  

No previous laboratory experience is required. We're looking for people with curiosity, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn.

To excel in this role, you will need one of the following:

• Pass (minimum Grade 06) in 5 Leaving Certificate subjects one of which must be maths and a science subject 250 CAO points
• Level 6 Qualification in a related discipline
• Eligibility to apply as a mature student

What will help you succeed:

• Be curious about science and interested in how things work
• Be motivated to learn and open to trying new things
• Be organised and able to manage your time between work and study
• Feel comfortable working both independently and as part of a team
• Pay attention to detail and take pride in doing things carefully

Why choose us? 

• Stretch your skills through apprenticeships, internships, graduate programs, and international experiences that grow with you. 
• Learn from inspiring mentors and collaborative teams while contributing to real projects that shape the future of healthcare. 
• Build your future with access to the latest tools, digital innovation, and continuous learning that keep you ahead of the curve. 
• Explore more with personalized development plans, short-term gigs, and internal mobility across functions and countries. 
• Grow in a purpose-driven company where your voice matters and your work helps improve millions of lives. 
• Thrive in inclusive, flexible workplaces that support your personal and professional well-being. 
• Launch your career with a company that invests in you — and empowers you to reimagine what’s possible.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier than the advertised closing date should we receive a sufficient number of applications.

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