Laboratory Analyst

Pilgrims Europe; Craigavon; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food production company in Craigavon is looking for a Laboratory Analyst to conduct analytical testing and support activities in compliance with regulatory standards. Candidates should have a degree in a relevant field or equivalent laboratory experience, ideally in the agri-food sector. The role involves ensuring accuracy and safety in testing and will include tasks such as participating in quality assurance programs and adhering to SOPs.

Qualifications

• Degree or equivalent in a science or food science discipline.
• Previous laboratory experience, ideally in agri-food.
• Understanding of food microbiology.

Responsibilities

• Conduct analytical testing and procedures with precision.
• Participate in quality assurance programs.
• Adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Monitor laboratory consumables and report low stock.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Computer skills

Team collaboration

Customer-focused mindset

Education

Degree in a science or food science discipline

3 years of relevant laboratory experience

Job description

Overview

Position: Laboratory Analyst
Location: Craigavon
Reporting to: Laboratory Management
Contract Type: Permanent

Job Purpose

To perform analytical testing and support activities within a designated laboratory, ensuring accuracy, safety, and efficiency in line with regulatory standards and business needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct analytical testing and associated procedures with precision and timeliness, prioritising samples as required.
• Participate in internal and external quality assurance programs and proficiency testing.
• Adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), CLAS, and UKAS ISO 17025 requirements.
• Undertake project work, validations, and specific tasks assigned by Laboratory Management.
• Foster a collaborative and positive team environment.
• Engage in ongoing training and development to enhance skills and knowledge.
• Support training programs for staff at all levels, ensuring timely progression.
• Assist with quality system tasks as directed by the Quality Manager.
• Monitor and report low stock levels of laboratory consumables.
• Ensure accurate and complete data entry and documentation of results to meet accreditation standards.
• Report and respond to out-of-specification results, escalating appropriately.
• Maintain cleanliness and organisation of work areas and equipment, adhering to health and safety protocols.
• Promote environmentally responsible practices, including waste reduction and recycling.
• Work within the laboratory shift pattern and be available for overtime, including weekends and bank holidays.

Qualifications & Experience

• Degree (or equivalent) in a science or food science discipline, or 3 years of relevant laboratory experience under recognised accreditation standards.
• Previous laboratory experience, ideally within the agri-food industry.
• Understanding of food microbiology.
• Strong computer and organisational skills.
• Effective communication skills across all levels.
• Customer-focused mindset to meet client requirements.
• Enthusiastic about learning and acquiring new skills.
• Interest in career progression within microbiology.
• Ability to contribute ideas and innovation to meet business goals.

Desirable Attributes

• Brings a unique skill or perspective to the role.
• Demonstrates initiative and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Committed to continuous improvement and professional development.

The Company

Pilgrim's Europe produces some of the best-known and most iconic brands in the UK and Ireland, including Fridge Raiders, Rollover, Denny, Richmond, Oakhouse and Moy Park, alongside a diverse range of industry leading own-label products in categories including fresh pork, lamb and chicken, working with all the major retailers and food service outlets.

Our portfolio extends to authentic chilled and frozen ready meals, snacking ranges, added value and food service products.

Across Pilgrim's Europe we combine 20,000 of the best people in the industry, united by a shared set of core values and a passion for producing the highest quality, most delicious and innovative food, which is enjoyed by millions of people in the UK, Ireland and Europe every day. Our Pilgrim's Europe team are based in our Pilgrim's UK, Moy Park, Pilgrim's Food Masters and Pilgrim's Shared Services businesses.

Application

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