Lab Assistant

Cara Technology Limited; Leatherhead; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology company in Leatherhead is seeking a Lab Assistant for their microbiology team. This hands-on role requires attention to detail and offers full training in yeast microbiology. Responsibilities include media preparation, sample logging, and general lab upkeep. Ideal candidates have an interest in science or brewing, and previous lab experience is a plus. Competitive salary and benefits are offered.

Benefits

Company events and socials

Enhanced sick, parental, and bereavement leave

Flexible working hours

On-site parking

Company pension

Training and development opportunities

Qualifications

• Desirable to have further education in a scientific discipline.
• Previous laboratory experience, particularly in microbiology is a plus.
• Interest in beer or brewing is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Prepare culture media and laboratory reagents following SOPs.
• Receive and log incoming samples accurately.
• Monitor and maintain laboratory stock levels.
• Maintain a clean and hygienic laboratory environment.

Skills

Attention to detail

Team player

Laboratory experience

Interest in brewing

Education

Further education in a scientific discipline

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Job description

• Job Description
  
  

We’re looking for a proactive, enthusiastic, and detail-focused Lab Assistant to join our microbiology team at our Leatherhead site. This is a hands-on role suited to someone with an interest in science or brewing, laboratory experience would be beneficial, but full training will be provided. You’ll support daily lab operations including media preparation, sample logging, stock management, and general upkeep. Over time, you’ll be trained in the full operation of our yeast microbiology lab. This is a full-time, on-site position. Standard working hours are 8:00am–4:00pm, with a preference for 7:30am–3:30pm if possible. You’ll report to the Senior Microbiologist and work closely with the wider laboratory team.

This is a full-time, on-site position. Standard working hours are 8:00am–4:00pm, with a preference for 7:30am–3:30pm if possible. You’ll report to the Senior Microbiologist and work closely with the wider laboratory team.

• Essential Job Functions
• Prepare culture media and laboratory reagents following standard operating procedures (SOPs)
• Receive and log incoming samples accurately using our computer systems
• Monitor and maintain laboratory stock levels
• Assist with washing, sterilising, and organising laboratory glassware and equipment
• Maintain a clean, organised, and hygienic laboratory environment
• File and update laboratory records, forms, and quality documentation
• Follow all health and safety protocols to ensure a safe working environment
• Assist with general lab duties and support the microbiology team as needed
• Receive training in microbiological techniques and yeast lab workflows over time
• Education and Experience
  
  

Desirable

• Further education in a scientific discipline
• Previous laboratory experience, particularly in microbiology
• Confident using Microsoft Excel (training can be provided)
• Interest in beer or brewing

• Personal Characteristics
• Tidy and methodical approach to work
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Eager to learn and develop new skills
• Practical, hands-on mindset
• “Clean-minded” – values hygiene and order in a laboratory setting
• Team player with good communication skills
• Salary & Working Conditions
• Salary: Competitive, depending on experience
• Hours: Full-time, 8:00am–4:00pm preferred (7:30am–3:30pm if possible)
• Location: Office-based at our Leatherhead laboratory
• Holiday: 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Benefits:
• Company events and socials
• Enhanced sick, parental, and bereavement leave
• Flexible working hours (where possible)
• On-site parking
• Company pension
• Training and development opportunities