Level 6 Materials Science Technologist
Overview
Materials Science Technologist (Degree) (ST0675/V1.0) is a Level 6 apprenticeship with an average time on programme of 48 months.
The standard is assessed through a work-based project (comprising of project report, presentation and quesionning), a professional discussion and a multiple-choice knowledge test. The End Point Assessment period is 9 months.
In order to pass gateway and move to the end point assessment phase the employer must be satisfied that the apprentice is consistenly working at or above the level of the occupational standard and apprentices must evidence English and Maths qualifications at Level 2, a Level 6 degree in Materials and agree a project outline and scope with their employer and PIABC.
Occupation Summary
The Materials Science Technologist occupation is at the forefront materials innovation in the Petrochemical, Pharmaceutical, Engineering, Construction, and Manufacturing industries.
The broad purpose of the occupation is to ensure materials used in those industries are fit for purpose in terms of product innovation, performance, failure diagnosis, operational management, process and manufacturing, and the positive advancement of materials science, thus enhancing economic and social value today and in the future.
Materials technologists will engage in high level activities such as materials testing, novel product development, solving manufacturing issues, laboratory management, team leadership, technological sales, and client management, depending on which of the variety of related businesses their employer is in.
Work involves testing materials used by clients through activities such as investigation, gathering physical evidence, critical analyses, drawing conclusions, and recommending courses of action. Depending on context, technologists may be involved in designing new materials or production processes, combining materials, or additive manufacturing. In addition, they may need to provide technical leadership in the design and development of new material products by choosing correct materials and applications through data derived from analysis in the field or lab.
End Point Assessment
Work Based Project (comprising of Project Report, Presentation and Questioning)
Summary Report - The apprentice must first prepare and submit project plan to PIABC and then complete the project report. The report should comprise of 2,500 words (+/-10%). The report (and project plan) will be reviewed by PIABC prior to the presentation taking place.
Presentation and Questioning - The presentation will be based on the project carried out in Component 1 and made to the independent assessor. The presentation and questioning will last for 90 minutes, which will include 50 minutes for delivery of the presentation, then 40 minutes of questioning (minimum of 8 questions).
Professional Discussion
The professional discussion between the apprentice and independent assessor will last for 60 minutes. It is to enable to apprentice to demonstrate their competence and excellence and cover the KSBs assigned to the professional discussion. The independent assessor will ask a minimum of nine open questions
Knowledge Test
The test will consist of 16 multiple choice questions and the apprentice has 60 minutes to complete. The test is closed book.
Order of Assessment Methods
The assessment methods can be delivered in any order and results of one assessment method do not need to be known before starting the next.
Grading
The standard is graded overall as distinction, pass or fail.
Assessment Plan
To view Materials Science Technologist assessment plan visit: