Laboratory Assistant

United Utilities; Warrington; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 24,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

26 days annual leave

Pension up to 14% employer

Healthcare plan

Gym discounts

Employee assistance

Life cover

Wellness programs

EVolve Car Scheme

Flexible benefits

Parental leave schemes

Job summary

United Utilities is looking for a diligent Laboratory Assistant to support sample preparation and straightforward analytical tasks in a regulated environment. You will contribute to timely outputs while adhering to the Quality System and regulatory requirements.

The role involves collaborating with Analytical and Sample Reception teams, maintaining instrumentation, and continuing professional development to stay aligned with changing standards.

Qualifications

• 5 GCSEs at grades 4–9/A-C in Maths, English and Science/Technology.
• Previous laboratory experience with ISO 17025 familiarity.
• Experience with IT systems and databases (Nautilus, TAPS, Word, Excel).

Responsibilities

• Prepare samples prior to analysis and perform straightforward analytical tasks.
• Support sample reception, scheduling and equipment maintenance.
• Work within a defined Quality System and meet tight deadlines.
• Collaborate across Analytical and Sample Reception teams.

Skills

GCSEs (Maths/English/Science)

Laboratory experience

IT systems & databases

Communication & planning

Flexibility in hours/practices

Education

5 GCSEs (A-C / 4-9)

Tools

Nautilus

TAPS

Word

Excel

Job description

The role

A proficient laboratory assistant working within the laboratory production environment, contributing towards the day to day delivery of analytical outputs. Operating within a tightly regulated Quality System, whilst satisfying the requirements of customers and regulators undertaking sample preparation and straightforward analytical techniques.

What You Will Be Doing:

You’ll undertake sample preparation prior to analysis and contributing to straightforward analytical techniques and analysis. You’ll also be responsible for:

• The In Sample Reception; receiving registers and distributing samples to analytical teams and undertaking some simple preparation and scheduling activities


• Working across a variety of teams (Analytical and Sample Reception)


• Working to a defined Quality system whilst adhering to tight deadlines with varying sample volumes and complying with the needs of the customer and changing regulatory standards


• Operating within a team environment and supporting activities according to best practice procedures as detailed in the Quality System.


• Assisting in the maintenance of equipment used to undertake preparation and straightforward analysis tasks.


• Maintenance of own knowledge in line with best practice and changing regulatory standards including Continuing Professional Development.


• Straightforward technical activities to facilitate learning and development.

What We Are Looking For:

To be successful in this role you’ll need 5 GCSEs (4-9 or A-C in Maths, English and Science/technology subject). You’ll also need:

• Previous laboratory experience with a basic understanding of ISO 17025, ISO 5667- part 3 and all other related regulatory requirements.


• Previous experience with IT systems, tools and databases including Nautilus, TAPS, Word, and Excel.


• Good communication skills and planning and organisations skills.


• Self-motivated to deliver a highly flexible sample preparation and analytical service within a changing environment including flexibility in working hours/practices

Benefits

• A generous annual leave package of 26 days, which increases to 30 days after four years ofservice (increases one day per year), in addition to 8 bank holidays


• A competitive pension scheme with up to 14% employer contribution, 21% combined, andlife cover


• Up to 7.5% performance-related bonus scheme, as well as recognitionawards for outstanding achievements


• A comprehensive healthcare plan through our company-funded scheme


• MyGymDiscounts - gym and wellness benefit that offers up to 25% off on gym membershipsand digital fitness subscriptions


• Best Doctors


• Salary Finance


• Wealth at Work courses


• Deals and discounts


• EVolve Car Scheme


• Employee Assistance Plan


• Mental health first aiders


• ShareBuy


• MORE Choices flexible benefits


• Enhanced parental leave schemes

About UU

United Utilities’ (UU) purpose is to deliver great water for a stronger, greener and healthier North West of England. We are committed to providing our services in a way that respects the environment, supports the economy, and benefits society.

We value diversity, inclusion and innovation in our workplace, and we foster a culture where our people can grow, excel, and be themselves.

We uphold our ethics, values and business model to fulfil our mission and, by setting clear goals and objectives, we create sustainable long-term value for our colleagues, customers and communities. Whether you work with a team that shares your vision or join a network of peers with similar interests, you will find a welcoming and supportive organisation to be part of.

We’ve got a lot to offer. You’ll be part of a thriving FTSE 100 company and will enjoy a range of core benefits that reflect your value and value contribution.