Early Careers
Shape the future with us. This is how we Sanofi.
QC Lab Apprentice
At a glance
Early Careers at Sanofi aren’t just about landing a role – they’re about starting a journey that stretches you from day one. You’ll dive into projects that matter, surrounded by people who challenge, mentor, and inspire you to explore more every step of the way.
Here, you can navigate paths across science, digital, manufacturing, and business – following your curiosity, growing your expertise, and building skills for tomorrow. With AI-powered tools, world-class learning, and a culture rooted in collaboration, we give you the opportunity to develop your expertise and transform our future.
About Waterford
For more than 20 years, our Waterford team has continued to grow and diversify to serve patients around the world. Today, a team of almost 800 work together at a state-of-the-art biopharmaceutical and medical device campus. Recognised through multiple local and national awards, Sanofi Waterford offers flexible working and access to a world of opportunities to grow your career at one location. As well as attractive benefits, the team enjoy access to an onsite gym and medical centre that underpin a strong commitment to health and wellbeing.
About the job
Are you looking to kick start a career in science working for a world leader in the Biopharmaceutical Industry, and get an opportunity to progress your education while getting paid?
Why not consider the QC Laboratory Apprenticeship programme with the Quality Control team in Sanofi, Waterford?
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 QC Chemistry Department are responsible for analysing raw material, in-process, finished product and stability samples to support product release and stability from the Waterford site.
About growing with us
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion the apprentice will be able to:
Knowledge:
Understanding the principles of cGMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) which are in operations in Biopharmachem
Understanding the Quality Systems that are in place and their importance
Understanding change control systems
Understanding Safe Laboratory and Work Practices/Methods
Knowledge of the analytical lifecycle management
Understand the Audits processes E.g., housekeeping, Internal Supplier, Regulatory and Customer audits
Knowledge of the variety of testing involved in raw material, in-process, finished product and stability samples and how to conduct same in accordance to predetermined specifications
Understanding the importance of recording results in a timely and accurate fashion
Knowledge of maintaining PPE and the process of reporting defects
Understanding the correct labelling of laboratory reagents and samples
Knowledge “out of specification” investigations and “Lab Investigations Reports” process
Knowledge of the purchase systems of QC consumables and liaising with approved suppliers
Understanding the various steps in the production process – upstream and downstream
Knowledge of calibration of laboratory equipment as required
Skills:
Operating company equipment and instruments effectively and according to standard operating procedures
Ability to work in a safe manner within a laboratory and work setting
Ability to perform a wide range of chemistry techniques to include but not limited to the use of Pipettes, Auto-Titrations, Ph, weighing, diluting to volume, Volumetric calculations, Karl Fischer, Thin Layer Chromatography and physical testing, HPLC
Ability to handle all laboratory and production materials and other materials according to safety instructions and analytical methods so as not to endanger him/herself, others or the environment
Soft skills:
Communicate effectively using a full range of skills: speaking; listening; writing; body language; presentation
Work and interact effectively within a team
Work independently and take responsibility for initiating and completing tasks
Understand impact of work on others, especially where related to diversity and equality
Time management and ability to complete work to schedule
Ability to handle change and respond to change management processes
About you
Entry requirements:
Pass (minimum Grade 06) in 5 Leaving Certificate subjects one of which must be maths and a science subject
250 CAO points
Or
Level 6 Qualification in a related discipline
Or
Mature student
Pursue Progress. Discover Extraordinary.
Join Sanofi and step into a new era of science - where your growth can be just as transformative as the work we do. We invest in you to reach further, think faster, and do what’s never-been-done-before. You’ll help push boundaries, challenge convention, and build smarter solutions that reach the communities we serve. Ready to chase the miracles of science and improve people’s lives? Let’s Pursue Progress and Discover Extraordinary – together.
At Sanofi, we provide equal opportunities to all regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.
Watch 'One day at Sanofi' and check out our Diversity Equity and Inclusion initiatives at sanofi.com
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Why work with us
- Shape your own journey. At Sanofi, diverse perspectives fuel bold thinking – and your path is yours to define. Whether through internships or graduate programs, you’ll explore more and build the future-ready skills that take your potential to the next level.
- Grow with the best. You’ll learn from experts across science, tech, manufacturing, and business – collaborating as one team on challenging projects that stretch you.
- Be empowered by innovation. With AI-powered tools, fresh ideas, and the freedom to be curious, you’ll partner with colleagues who turn challenges into breakthroughs – and help reimagine what’s possible.
- Make an impact from day one. Your work matters. You’ll shape solutions, contribute to an inclusive, sustainable future, and experience what it means to say: This is how we Sanofi.
This is how we Sanofi
Building international networks, empowering career growth, and innovating through smart risks. This is how we innovate. This is how we transform healthcare. This is how we Sanofi.
"We’re transforming Early Careers at Sanofi — with a clear mission to empower the next generation of healthcare leaders with the skills of tomorrow. Here, you’ll find bold and meaningful experiences that fuel your growth, ignite your potential, and enable you to make an impact from day one."
Andrew Sharp
Global Head of Early Careers
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