Laboratory Extraction Chemist

RPS Group; Bedford; On-site; GBP 23,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company is seeking an Extraction Chemist to join their Laboratory Team in Bedford. This is an excellent opportunity for recent graduates in Chemistry, offering exposure to a fast-paced commercial laboratory environment. Key responsibilities include sample preparation and extraction, ensuring quality control, and maintaining equipment. The role provides a clear pathway for career progression and personal development.

Benefits

Personal development plan

Transparent career pathway

Support for growth and wellbeing

Qualifications

• Basic laboratory techniques: pipetting, weighing, titrations, dilutions.
• Ability to work under pressure and independently.
• Understanding of Quality Control/Quality Assurance processes.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and extract samples of environmental contaminants.
• Conduct laboratory maintenance and equipment calibration.
• Collaborate with team members to complete laboratory tasks.

Skills

Basic laboratory skills

Time management

Attention to detail

Communication

Education

Degree in Chemistry or related subject

Job description

Social network you want to login/join with:

RPS is looking for an Extraction Chemist to join our Laboratory Team based in Bedford. This position is ideally suited to a recent graduate in Chemistry (or a closely related subject) and will build your experience working in a fast-paced, commercial laboratory environment with rapidly changing priorities.

Salary starts at £23,481 and, as part of the Extraction Development scheme, your salary can increase through regular performance reviews.

What you will be doing:

You will be responsible for preparing and extracting samples, covering a wide range of environmental contaminants in different sample types. Working under a Senior Analytical Chemist, you will manage your own workload and collaborate closely with colleagues in a small team to ensure timely and quality work.

Key responsibilities:

• Perform sample extraction and preparation following established quality procedures.
• Maintain a stock of consumables and chemicals needed for daily activities.
• Conduct laboratory checks, including calibration and maintenance of equipment such as pipettes and balances.
• Work as part of a team to ensure routine laboratory tasks are completed for smooth operation.

Possible hazards involved:

• Handling chemicals and solvents
• Handling potentially biohazardous samples
• Handling foods, including nuts

Who we are looking for:

• Basic laboratory skills and techniques, including pipetting, weighing, titrations, and dilutions.
• Good time management, attention to detail, and ability to work under pressure.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions, seeking advice when needed.
• Understanding of Quality Control/Quality Assurance processes.
• Ability to work independently and in a team.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

What we offer you:

A career here is unique. You’ll have a personal development plan and a transparent career pathway. We support your growth and value diverse ideas, perspectives, and skills. We respect everyone and prioritize wellbeing.

All job offers are subject to criminal history and health checks relevant to the role.

What happens next?

The Talent Acquisition Team will contact you regarding your application. If progressed, you'll have a conversation with a recruiter and then an interview with the team.

If this opportunity aligns with your career goals, we look forward to hearing from you. All applications will be considered. #LI-SY1

Our commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

We are dedicated to embedding diversity and inclusion in all our processes to reflect the communities and clients we serve. We believe in creating an inclusive environment where everyone’s contributions are valued. Our core behavior 'Stronger Together' emphasizes respect, diversity, and mutual growth.

Recruitment Agencies

We work with a trusted list of agencies and do not accept unsolicited CVs from outside this list. Please visit our careers page for more info.