Laboratory Scientist

Severn Trent Water; Midlands; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading water utility provider in the Midlands is looking for a Laboratory Scientist to perform microbiological analysis and ensure compliance with water quality standards. The role requires knowledge of water testing procedures, strong analytical skills, and the ability to work effectively in a team. Attractive salary, benefits, and a commitment to training and development are offered.

Benefits

Starting salary of £

25 days holiday plus bank holidays

Annual bonus scheme (up to £1,500)

Enhanced pension scheme

Sharesave scheme

Training and development

Electric vehicle scheme

Family-friendly policies

Two volunteering days per year

Qualifications

• At least six months of lab experience is preferred.
• Complying with documented procedures and standards.
• Ability to analyze, interpret data, and investigate results.

Responsibilities

• Undertake microbiological analysis of drinking water and associated samples.
• Interpreting, checking, and reporting analytical data and quality controls.
• Escalate non-conforming work investigations with corrective actions.
• Assist in training and mentoring colleagues.

Skills

Analytical mindset

Effective communication

Teamwork

Problem-solving skills

Attention to detail

Education

HNC, HND, NVQ Level 3 in Chemistry/Biology or relevant field

5 higher-grade GCSEs or equivalent

Job description

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Hello, we’re Severn Trent and we think water is wonderful. Oh, we’re pretty keen on people too.

24 hours a day, 365 days a year, we serve 4.8 million households and businesses across the heart of the UK. Each cuppa drank and every toilet flushed is only possible because of the 6,500 brilliant team members working across our patch.

We welcome people from all walks of life and celebrate individuality. We know diverse minds, experiences, and backgrounds help us to learn and better serve our customers and the communities where they live.

If you want to do more because you care, we’d love to talk to you. There really is something for everyone here.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

Our Water Quality and Environment team has an opportunity for you to join as our new Laboratory Scientist.

The working hours for this role are Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday, 9 am - 6:45 pm. This is a fixed pattern totaling 37.5 hours per week.

In your new role, you’ll be responsible for undertaking microbiological analysis of drinking water and associated samples from water treatment works, service reservoirs, customer taps, and catchment surveys. This work delivers regulatory commitments to the Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI). You will need knowledge of Water Quality testing procedures and standards, ensuring all testing is carried out using the correct processes and methods.

You’ll be responsible for analyzing high-volume, complex work streams, using the Laboratory LIMS system to report results and ensure samples are tested within the required deadlines and to the highest standards of Water Quality testing to protect public health.

Some of your other key responsibilities will include:

• Interpreting, checking, and reporting analytical data and quality controls in accordance with QMS requirements, with the ability to identify atypical results, investigate, and respond appropriately.
• Understanding laboratory processes to identify and interpret atypical results or scenarios to ensure correct actions are taken.
• Escalating and completing non-conforming work investigations, identifying root causes, and implementing corrective and preventative actions.
• Assisting with training, coaching, and mentoring colleagues.
• Maintaining DWI and ISO 17025 competency requirements through participation in proficiency testing schemes, maintaining CPD records, producing AQC data, and conducting method witness audits.
• Providing technical support during incidents and standby responses, including evaluation of results.
• Participating in standby and callout rotations.

WHAT YOU’LL BRING TO THE ROLE

We’re seeking a Laboratory Scientist who ensures all work complies with documented procedures, processes, and methods within the QMS to meet ISO17025 and regulatory standards.

Ideally, you’ll have at least six months of lab experience, 5 higher-grade GCSEs or equivalent, and a minimum of HNC, HND, NVQ Level 3 in Chemistry/Biology or relevant field. Higher qualifications or professional memberships are desirable.

You should have an analytical, methodical mindset, effective communication skills, and the ability to work well in a team. Strong IT, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail are essential for keeping accurate records.

We value the right character, positivity, and caring attitude as much as technical skills. We welcome diverse backgrounds and encourage everyone who is eager to make a difference to apply.

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU

Working here is more than just a job. You can build a career at Severn Trent, with a range of benefits and award-winning training to support your growth. Plus, you’ll be contributing to environmental and community well-being.

Some of our key perks include:

• Starting salary of £
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays (with options to buy/sell up to 5 days)
• Annual bonus scheme (up to £1,500 based on performance)
• Enhanced pension scheme (company doubles your contribution up to 15%)
• Sharesave scheme at discounted rates
• Training and development through our ‘Academy’
• Electric vehicle scheme and retail offers
• Family-friendly policies
• Two volunteering days per year

WHAT’S NEXT?

We look forward to hearing from you. Please have an updated CV ready and set aside about five minutes to apply.

If you want to learn more, search #LifeAtSevernTrent on social media.

We’ll notify you of the outcome after the closing date, so keep an eye on your emails and phone.