Lab and Operations Assistant

Polytec Personnel Ltd; Girton; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 27,000; Full time

Job summary

A biotechnology and engineering firm in Cambridge is seeking a Lab and Operations Assistant to support laboratory and operational tasks. This role requires a strong interest in laboratory work and the ability to manage detailed responsibilities in a dynamic environment. The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, organized, and possess good communication skills. Previous lab experience is beneficial but not essential. The position offers a permanent contract with a salary between £25,000 - £27,000 depending on experience.

Qualifications

• Strong interest in laboratory work, science or operations.
• Comfortable with physical tasks such as handling boxes and maintaining tidy work areas.
• Good organizational skills and strong attention to detail.
• Clear communication skills and the ability to follow instructions accurately.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and manage time in a busy environment.
• Competent PC skills, including Microsoft Excel, Word and data entry.

Responsibilities

• Replenish lab consumables and maintain accurate inventory records.
• Clean, sterilise and maintain glassware, equipment surfaces and work areas.
• Support general lab upkeep, including waste disposal.
• Track equipment status and report faults or maintenance needs.
• Receive and inspect deliveries; log, unpack and store items properly.
• Pack and ship outgoing orders, ensuring correct contents.
• Provide administrative support, including maintaining records.
• Support ad-hoc operational tasks and follow laboratory safety procedures.

Skills

Attention to detail

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Physical tasks handling

PC skills (Excel, Word)

Education

Relevant scientific or operational qualifications

Job description

Location: Cambridge (CB3)

Type: Permanent

Hours: 37.5 per week (Monday to Friday)

Salary: £25000 - £27000 per annum, dependent on experience

Job Reference: 35888

Are you looking for an opportunity to join a dynamic, interdisciplinary team working at the intersection of biotechnology and engineering? Polytec are looking for a Lab and Operations Assistant that will support both laboratory activities and wider operational tasks. This is a hands‑on, detail‑oriented role in a fast‑paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Replenish lab consumables and maintain accurate inventory records.
• Clean, sterilise and maintain glassware, equipment surfaces and work areas.
• Support general lab upkeep, including waste disposal (hazardous waste as trained), restocking, checking expiry dates and labelling reagents/solutions.
• Track equipment status and report faults or maintenance needs.
• Receive and inspect deliveries; log, unpack and store items properly.
• Pack and ship outgoing orders, ensuring correct contents, labelling and courier coordination.
• Provide administrative support, including maintaining records for consumables, stock movements and shipment.
• Support ad‑hoc operational tasks such as internal moves, logistical support for other teams and basic maintenance or housekeeping duties.
• Follow laboratory safety procedures, use appropriate PPE and maintain compliance with health and safety standards.

Requirements

Essential

• Strong interest in laboratory work, science or operations.
• Comfortable with physical tasks such as handling boxes and maintaining tidy work areas.
• Good organisational skills and strong attention to detail.
• Clear communication skills and the ability to follow instructions accurately.
• Ability to prioritise tasks and manage time in a busy environment.
• Competent PC skills, including Microsoft Excel, Word and data entry.

Desirable

• Previous experience in a laboratory, manufacturing environment, or shipping/receiving role.
• Awareness of GLP and/or health and safety practices in lab or industrial settings.
• Experience with stock‑control systems or shipping documentation.
• Relevant scientific or operational qualifications (e.g., A‑Levels, BTEC, vocational equivalent).
• Full, clean driving licence.

Please contact us as soon as possible for more details or apply below.