Laboratory Production Operative

Avantor; England; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading chromatography company in the UK seeks an entry-level operative to join its production team. This hands-on role involves manufacturing High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) columns. Key responsibilities include following production procedures and maintaining a clean workspace. No formal qualifications are required, and training is provided. Ideal candidates should have strong communication skills and an ability to work under pressure.

Qualifications

• No formal qualifications required – full training provided.
• Previous experience in production, industrial, or hospitality environments is a plus.
• Ability to work under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Carry out production tasks according to established procedures.
• Prepare materials and workstations to meet production targets.
• Keep work area clean and organized.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Job description

The Opportunity:

Hichrom, part of VWR/Avantor has been firmly established in the field of chromatography for over 30 years, specialising in the development, manufacture and supply of high quality chromatography products, servicing both the UK and overseas markets. During this time we have built up a strong reputation amongst chromatographers for technical expertise, speed of delivery and competitive pricing.

This is an entry-level operative role manufacturing High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) columns.

📍 Location: 1 The Markham Centre, Station Road, Theale, Reading, Berkshire, RG7 4PE

🕒 Working Hours:

• Monday to Thursday: 1:45 PM – 10:30 PM
• Friday: 1:45 PM – 6:15 PM 💼 Entry‑level opportunity

We’re looking for reliable and motivated individuals to join our production team in Theale, where we manufacture key components used in laboratory workflows. If you enjoy working in a fast‑paced, hands‑on environment and take pride in maintaining high standards, this could be the role for you!

🛠️ Key Responsibilities:

• Carry out production tasks according to established procedures and instructions.
• Prepare materials and workstations to meet daily production targets.
• Keep your work area clean, organised, and safe at all times.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors and team members, including shift handovers and break coverage.
• Report any delays or equipment issues promptly.
• Take ownership of tools and stations, ensuring they’re well maintained.
• Support production teams with updates to procedures and processes.

✅ What We’re Looking For:

• No formal qualifications required – full training provided.
• Previous experience in production, industrial, or hospitality environments is a plus.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• High attention to detail and ability to work under pressure.
• Own transport is ideal due to shift patterns.

📦 Working Environment:

• Practical, hands‑on role in a production setting.
• Physical activity including walking, lifting (up to 5kg), and handling equipment.
• Fast‑paced environment with varied daily tasks.

Disclaimer:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position. Avantor is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

Why Avantor?

Dare to go further in your career. Join our global team of 14,000+ associates whose passion for discovery and determination to overcome challenges relentlessly advances life‑changing science.

The work we do changes people's lives for the better. It brings new patient treatments and therapies to market, giving a cancer survivor the chance to walk his daughter down the aisle. It enables medical devices that help a little boy hear his mom's voice for the first time. Outcomes such as these create unlimited opportunities for you to contribute your talents, learn new skills and grow your career at Avantor.

We are committed to helping you on this journey through our diverse, equitable and inclusive culture which includes learning experiences to support your career growth and success. At Avantor, dare to go further and see how the impact of your contributions set science in motion to create a better world.

Apply today!

EEO Statement:

We are an Equal Employment/Affirmative Action employer and VEVRAA Federal Contractor. We do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected Veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/province, or local law.

If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact us by email at [e-mail] and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Requests for accommodation will be considered on a case‑by‑case basis. Please note that only inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address.

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By submitting candidates without having been formally assigned on and contracted for a specific job requisition by Avantor, or by failing to comply with the Avantor recruitment process, you forfeit any fee on the submitted candidates, regardless of your usual terms and conditions. Avantor works with a preferred supplier list and will take the initiative to engage with recruitment agencies based on its needs and will not be accepting any form of solicitation.