Fixed term contract) Microbiology Analyst

South East Water; Farnborough; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 31,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension scheme (up to 10% employer)

5 weeks holiday + bank holidays

Flexible annual leave buy/sell

Volunteer days

Cycle to work

Health cash plan

Life assurance

Wellbeing benefits

Job summary

South East Water is seeking a Microbiology Analyst on a 6-month fixed-term contract to deliver high-quality microbiological analyses for drinking water safety. You will interpret data to detect faecal indicators and protozoa, operate within the Laboratory Management System, and support both microbiology and Cryptosporidium sections in a fast-paced lab.

The role runs 37 hours per week with twilight shifts (16:00–03:00, typically 16:00–00:00) and a 15% twilight allowance.

Qualifications

• NVQ Level 3+ or equivalent
• Willing to work towards professional body membership
• Excellent numeracy, literacy, and computer/lab skills
• Good laboratory practice experience

Responsibilities

• Operate and ensure analyses follow the Laboratory Management System
• Maintain and troubleshoot equipment as needed
• Analyse data and complete laboratory paperwork
• Maintain daily logs and equipment records
• Enter data into LIMS within set timeframes
• Ensure sample stability and turnaround times for analyses
• Prepare standards, reagents and QC samples per procedures
• Aim to become a competent person under Water Regulations and pursue CPD

Skills

Microbiology

Lab skills

Data interpretation

Quality control

Education

NVQ Level 3+ or equivalent

Tools

LIMS

Equipment maintenance

Job description

Summary

*** (6 month fixed term contract) *** Are you an experienced microbiologist with exceptional planning skills? We're looking for a focused (6 month fixed term contract), adaptable Microbiology Analyst to help deliver safe, clean, wholesome water to our customers and commercial partners. In this crucial, fast-paced role, you'll perform and guide complex microbiological analysis, interpreting vital data to detect faecal indicator bacteria and protozoa. Working within our market-leading facilities, you'll operate cutting-edge methods under our Laboratory Management System, maintain key equipment, and support both our Microbiology and Cryptosporidium sections. We process samples 365 days a year, so we value high quality standards, drive, and fresh ideas to fuel our culture of continuous improvement. We aim to be the water company people trust and love working for, offering a vibrant, friendly environment where your dedication truly matters. This role is full time 37 hours and has a working window from 16:00pm to 03:00am where most standard shifts will be 16:00pm - 00:00am with a 30 minute break. Due to the role being twilight hours, it comes with a 15% allowance.

Main responsibilities

• Ensure that instrumentation is operated and analysis performed in line with the Laboratory Management system.
• Assist with the maintenance and troubleshooting of equipment.
• Analyse and interpret data and complete all laboratory paperwork.
• Document information by maintaining daily logs and equipment.
• Ensure data is accurately entered into the Laboratory Information Management System within set timeframes.
• Ensure that the sample stability and turnaround for the given analysis is met.
• Assist to prepare standards, reagents and Quality Control Samples in accordance with company internal procedures.
• Work towards being a competent person according to Regulation 16(2)(d)(i) of the Water Supply (Water Quality) Regulations 216 (as amended) and to actively pursue Continued Professional Development.

You'll need

• Relevant academic qualification or scientific subject at NVQ level 3 equivalent or above.
• Willing to work towards full membership of a professional body.
• Excellent numeracy, literacy, computer literacy and laboratory skills to engage in robust analytical laboratory practice.
• Previous knowledge and/or experience of good laboratory practice. Grow a career with a meaningful purpose.

Benefits package

• Excellent Stakeholder pension scheme, up to 10% employer contribution.
• 5 weeks holiday plus bank holidays per annum, increasing to 6 weeks with length of service.
• Flexible annual leave policy to buy or sell holiday leave.
• Paid volunteering days.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Health cash plan.
• Life assurance.
• Wellbeing related benefits.

Compensation package

£28,028 per annum

Requirements

It is necessary for you to have the legal right to work in the UK when you begin employment with South East Water.

Additionally, as part of the employment offer, you will need to pass background, identity, and employment referencing checks.