Chemist 1

Smithers; Harrogate; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading environmental science firm based in Harrogate seeks a Chemist I to join their Analytical Chemistry team. This role is tailored for early-career chemists, providing hands-on experience in analytical techniques and quality systems. The successful candidate will support routine laboratory activities, develop technical skills, and contribute to impactful projects in environmental science. Ideal qualifications include a BSc in Chemistry and prior laboratory experience. This position offers strong career development opportunities within a supportive work environment.

Benefits

Private Medical Insurance

Employer-matched pension contributions

Eyecare vouchers

Ride to Work scheme

Life assurance cover

Employee Assistance Programme

Free mortgage advice service

Qualifications

• BSc (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry, or a related discipline.
• Some prior experience in a laboratory environment.
• Basic understanding of quality systems (e.g. GLP, GMP, ISO).

Responsibilities

• Support laboratory-based analytical work under supervision.
• Assist with sample preparation and instrument operation.
• Contribute to analytical studies under GLP and non-GLP quality systems.

Skills

Laboratory experience

Attention to detail

Good communication skills

Team-oriented approach

Education

BSc in Chemistry or related discipline

Tools

LC‑MS/MS

Job description

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Chemist I to join the Analytical Chemistry team within the Environmental Risk Sciences (ERS) division of Smithers, based in Harrogate.

This role is ideal for an early-career chemist with some prior laboratory experience who is enthusiastic about environmental science and keen to build a strong technical foundation in analytical chemistry and regulatory testing. The successful candidate will work alongside experienced scientists, contributing to high-quality data generation while developing their skills in a supportive and structured environment.

Smithers ERS Limited provides environmental and regulatory safety testing services across the pharmaceutical, agrochemical, biocidal, industrial, and specialty chemical sectors. Our teams support global clients by generating robust, regulator‑ready data to inform environmental risk and safety assessments.

The Role

Reporting to a Senior Scientist or Study Director, the Chemist I will support routine and developmental laboratory activities, gaining hands‑on experience in analytical techniques, quality systems, and data reporting. This role offers an excellent opportunity to develop practical skills, scientific understanding, and regulatory awareness, with clear pathways for progression.

Key Responsibilities

• Support laboratory-based analytical work under supervision, following approved methods and SOPs
• Assist with sample preparation, instrument operation, and basic data processing
• Contribute to analytical studies conducted under GLP and non‑GLP quality systems
• Support method development and troubleshooting activities where required
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and documentation in accordance with quality requirements
• Assist with routine instrument maintenance and laboratory housekeeping
• Develop understanding of emerging environmental contaminants and their analytical challenges
• Work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team, learning from experienced scientists

Qualifications and Experience

• BSc (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry, or a related discipline
• Some prior experience working in a laboratory environment (industry placement, CRO, industrial or academic lab)
• Basic understanding of quality systems (e.g. GLP, GMP, ISO)
• Knowledge of LC‑MS/MS is desirable, but not essential
• Interest in environmental science and emerging contaminants
• Enthusiastic, proactive, and keen to learn
• Good attention to detail and organisational skills
• Effective communication skills and a team‑oriented approach

We Offer

We offer a supportive environment where early‑career scientists can develop their skills while working on meaningful and impactful projects. Benefits include:

• Private Medical Insurance with Bupa
• Employer‑matched pension contributions
• Eyecare vouchers
• Ride to Work scheme
• Life assurance cover
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Free mortgage advice service

Start your career with Smithers and grow as an environmental scientist.

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