Laboratory Assistant

Edrington; Aberlour; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading spirits company in Scotland is seeking a Laboratory Assistant to provide technical support for distillation processes through laboratory analysis and ensure compliance with quality standards. The ideal candidate will possess a scientific qualification at HNC level or above, alongside strong laboratory skills and proficiency in analytical methods. This role offers a collaborative work environment, focusing on routine analysis and improvements in lab methods, contributing to the company's commitment to quality excellence.

Benefits

Salary £30,000- £37,500

37 days holiday plus 4 volunteer days

Pension contributions up to 14%

Up to 10% Share Reward scheme

Private medical insurance

24/7 support services

Annual product allowance and staff discount

26 weeks paid maternity, paternity, and adoption leave

Qualifications

• Ability to execute standard analytical methods and wet chemistry techniques.
• Experience in the drinks industry is preferred.
• Knowledge of analytical techniques.

Responsibilities

• Carry out routine analysis of production and research samples.
• Ensure procedures and test methods are correctly executed.
• Deal with OOS results and escalate as per procedures.
• Support project work and process improvements.
• Participate in departmental meetings and continuous improvement activities.

Skills

Strong laboratory technical skills

Multitasking

Strong communication skills

Organizational skills

Proficiency in Microsoft 365

Education

Scientific qualification at HNC level or above

Job description

Our Craft

Edrington’s vision is to give more by crafting exceptional ultra-premium spirit brands. The Macallan is our central focus, supported by Highland Park and The Glenrothes in the single malt category. Our portfolio is completed with Brugal rum from the Dominican Republic, Wyoming Whiskey in the American Whiskey category and Valdespino sherry from Jerez in Spain. Edrington also has a strategic partnership with No.3 London Dry Gin.

Our principal shareholder is a charitable trust, so we were built to make a world of difference. Discover a place where values define our culture. The home of exceptional brands, where people and teams thrive.

Our Blend of Benefits

• Salary £30,000- £37,500
• 37 days holiday, plus 4 Giving More volunteer days
• Save for retirement and invest in your future - pension contributions (employee up to 8.75%, employer up to 14%)
• Share in our success with up to 10% Share Reward scheme (subject to eligibility)
• Private medical insurance that covers the cost of private healthcare and includes round the clock access to GP services and menopause health line
• 24/7 support for you and your loved ones to counselling, life coaching and information on financial, mental, and physical wellbeing
• Experience our exceptional brands with a generous annual product allowance, plus at least 20% discount in our staff shop
• Embrace work-life harmony with 26 weeks’ paid maternity, paternity and adoption leave, and up to five paid carers leave days a year

Embrace Excellence

The Laboratory Assistant plays a key role within a collaborative team, reporting directly to the Laboratory and Research Project Lead. This position provides essential technical support for distillation processes through routine laboratory analysis, ensuring compliance with established schedules. Additionally, the role offers critical assistance to production operations, including troubleshooting issues, reviewing technical work instructions, and performing accurate laboratory instrument checks to maintain quality standards. Make an Impact

Make an Impact

The key responsibilities are:

• To carry out routine analysis of production and research samples using specific test methods
• Ensure the detailed steps of all Procedures and Test Methods are correctly executed.
• Correctly deal with OOS results, confirm the result and follow procedures to deal with any NC.
• Ensure all OOS or NC work is correctly escalated as detailed in the departmental procedures.
• Prioritise routine and research work to operate efficiently in a small technical team.
• Support of Project work and process improvements for lab methods and procedures.
• Complete all tasks assigned from regular laboratory meetings as per timelines set out by Laboratory Manager/ Lab Supervisor.
• Integrity of laboratory results by participation in proficiency schemes.
• Participate in department meetings, communication with team on results, issues and support in problem solving. Participate in departmental change initiatives and continuous Improvement activity.
• Participate in laboratory and site projects.

Your Talent and Skills

The ideal candidate will hold a scientific qualification at HNC level or above and possess strong laboratory technical skills. They should be fully competent in standard analytical methods and wet chemistry techniques, although full training will be provided if required. Experience within the drinks industry, familiarity with company products, and knowledge of analytical techniques are preferred. Proficiency in Microsoft 365 and general computer skills is essential. The role requires the ability to multitask, prioritise effectively, and demonstrate strong communication and organisational skills. Candidates should be able to work collaboratively within a team as well as independently.

We’ve put together some criteria that we think is important for this role, but don’t worry if your experience and expertise isn’t an exact match. If you feel that you can add value to our role and to Edrington more broadly, we would welcome your application and be eager to learn more about you.

*Applications close 26th January 2026 at midnight*

A Place For Everyone

We’re proud of our inclusive culture – where unique experiences, ideas and perspectives are celebrated. We want everyone to feel respected and empowered to contribute to our success.

Get involved. From colleague networks like Balance, Pride and Kick-Start to inclusion allies and DE&I champions, we encourage our people to be curious, get involved and help us make change happen.