Laboratory Assistant

Tetra Tech Europe; Manchester; On-site; GBP 19,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

Tetra Tech's Manchester laboratory is hiring a Laboratory Assistant to support preparation, testing and quality control of analytical samples. The role reports to a Senior Chemist and involves gravimetric sample prep, reagent preparation, calibrating equipment and carrying out basic tests while keeping accurate records.

You will work closely with chemists, analysts and laboratory colleagues in a busy environment, focusing on safety, housekeeping and timely processing to uphold high quality

Qualifications

• Good attention to detail and a responsible approach to health and safety.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Good organisational skills, reliability and a willingness to learn.

Responsibilities

• Prepare gravimetric and laboratory samples, reagents and solutions accurately.
• Maintain clear, accurate quality records and traceable analytical work.
• Assist with calibration and routine checks of equipment.

Skills

Practical lab skills

Quality records

Equipment calibration

Health and safety

Teamwork

Education

Science qualification

Job description

Laboratory Assistant – Start Your Technical Career in a Manchester Laboratory

Purpose and Scope of the Role

Tetra Tech is looking for a Laboratory Assistant to join our Manchester laboratory team, supporting the preparation, testing and quality control activities that underpin accurate analytical results for our clients.

Reporting to a Senior Chemist, you will assist with gravimetric and laboratory sample preparation, prepare reagents and solutions, calibrate equipment and undertake basic laboratory testing as required. You will also maintain accurate quality records, support good housekeeping and ensure all work is carried out safely and in line with laboratory procedures.

This is a practical, hands‑on role within a busy technical environment, working closely with chemists, analysts and wider laboratory colleagues to help ensure samples are processed efficiently, safely and to the required quality standards.

Your Impact in this Position

In the short term, you will build confidence in laboratory routines, sample preparation and equipment calibration while developing a strong understanding of quality, safety and housekeeping expectations.

As you progress, you will gain broader exposure to laboratory testing and analytical workflows, creating opportunities to develop your technical knowledge and contribute to consistent, high‑quality service delivery. Longer term, this role can provide a strong foundation for career progression within laboratory operations, analytical chemistry or specialist technical roles.

Core Capabilities

Practical Laboratory Skills

• Prepare gravimetric and laboratory samples, reagents and solutions accurately, following agreed methods and procedures.

Quality and Record Keeping

• Maintain clear, accurate quality records in line with laboratory requirements and support reliable, traceable analytical work.

Equipment Care and Calibration

• Assist with calibration and routine checks to help ensure equipment remains suitable for use and laboratory outputs are dependable.

Health, Safety and Housekeeping

• Follow health and safety requirements, maintain good housekeeping standards and contribute to a clean, organised working environment.

Teamwork and Reliability

• Work collaboratively with chemists, analysts and laboratory colleagues, managing routine tasks efficiently and asking for guidance when needed.

Skills, Qualifications And Experience

You should have good attention to detail, a responsible approach to health and safety, and the ability to follow written and verbal instructions. Good organisational skills, reliability and a willingness to learn are important.

Previous laboratory experience, scientific knowledge or a relevant science qualification would be advantageous, but full training can be provided for candidates with the right attitude and interest in practical laboratory work.

Work Patterns and Location

This role is based at Tetra Tech’s Manchester laboratory and is expected to be primarily site based due to the practical nature of the work. #Laboratories

Why join Tetra Tech?

Tetra Tech is a leading provider of consulting and engineering services working across the full project lifecycle worldwide. We have a wide range of expertise across our teams, providing a global support network with a personalised approach to client relationships to better understand where we can add value. We provide a collaborative environment that supports individual performance, innovation, and creativity.

We support public and private sector clients on local, national, and international projects to deliver sustainable and resilient solutions. Our operations in the UK, Ireland, and the Netherlands include more than 6,000 employees who are Leading with Science to solve our clients’ most complex problems.

In alignment with the Equality Act 2010, we will make reasonable adjustments to support candidates and employees requiring additional arrangements. This could include adaptations to work schedules, training approaches, or the physical workspace. Please inform us if you need any accommodations during the recruitment process or in your day‑to‑day role.