Laboratory Scientist - Chemistry

South West Water Limited; Exeter; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 38,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

23 days annual leave excluding bank

Holiday buy and sell scheme

Competitive pension scheme

Life assurance

Group income protection

Health cash plan

Free onsite parking

Cycle to Work scheme

Canteen onsite

Volunteer day

Discounts and offers

Job summary

South West Water Limited in Exeter is seeking a detail-focused Laboratory Scientist to join our accredited laboratory team. You will perform analytical testing and ensure compliance with ISO 17025, DWTS and MCERTS, while maintaining high data integrity and robust documentation.

You will contribute to continuous improvement, support investigations into non-conforming work, and participate in training and development within a motivated team. A commitment to quality and safety is essential.

Qualifications

• GCSEs including Maths, English and Science.
• A-Level (or equivalent) in Chemistry or Biology.
• Experience with MS Office and lab documentation practices.

Responsibilities

• Undertake chemical analysis using approved laboratory methods.
• Ensure activities comply with ISO 17025 and quality requirements.
• Perform instrument calibration, maintenance and QA checks.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and documentation.
• Assess data validity and identify follow-up actions.
• Report results to internal and external customers.
• Support investigations and corrective actions for non-conforming work.
• Assist training and mentoring of colleagues.
• Participate in project work and method development.
• Adhere to Health, Safety and Security requirements.
• Maintain CPD and professional competence.
• Participate in standby and out-of-hours rotas.

Skills

Microsoft Office

Organisational skills

Attention to detail

Communication

Teamwork

Prioritisation

Education

5 GCSEs including Maths English and a Science subject

A-Level in Chemistry or Biology

HNC/NVQ or Degree in a relevant scientific discipline

Job description

Powered by Water, Driven by Purpose

South West Water keeps the South West flowing with safe, reliable drinking water and wastewater services across some of the UK’s most stunning landscapes.

We’re proud to be part of Pennon Group, a leader in the UK water sector, working towards a greener future. Our goals? As well as lowering our carbon footprint, we’re working with partners to plant 300,000 trees, restore peatlands and supporting farmers and landowners to improve water quality and wildlife.

Whether you’re starting out or seeking a new challenge, our scale and ambition create opportunities for you to shape your own career.

The Role

We are looking for a motivated and detail-focused Laboratory Scientist to join our accredited laboratory team in Exeter. You will perform scientific analysis of samples associated with South West Water's operations and commercial activities, ensuring the highest standards of quality, accuracy, and compliance are maintained at all times.

Working within an ISO 17025 accredited environment, you will support the delivery of essential laboratory services, contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, and help uphold our commitment to quality for customers, colleagues, stakeholders, and the environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake chemical analysis using approved laboratory methods and procedures.
• Ensure all laboratory activities comply with ISO 17025, DWTS and MCERTS quality requirements.
• Perform routine instrument calibration, maintenance and quality control checks.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and documentation.
• Assess analytical data to determine result validity and identify any required follow-up actions.
• Report and explain results to internal and external customers.
• Support investigations into non-conforming work and assist in implementing corrective actions.
• Assist with training and mentoring laboratory colleagues when required.
• Participate in laboratory projects, method development and continuous improvement activities.
• Promote and adhere to all Health, Safety and Security requirements.
• Maintain professional competence and Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
• Participate in emergency standby and out-of-hours rotas as required.

What We're Looking For

Essential

• Minimum of 5 GCSEs (or equivalent), including Maths, English and a Science subject.
• A-Level (or equivalent) in a relevant scientific discipline such as Chemistry or Biology.
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to prioritise workload and work effectively as part of a team.
• A methodical approach with a strong commitment to quality and accuracy.

Desirable

• HNC, NVQ or Degree in a relevant scientific discipline.
• Previous experience working in a laboratory environment.
• Experience working within ISO 17025 accredited laboratories.
• Membership of, or willingness to work towards membership of, a relevant professional body.

Why Join Us?

At South West Water, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We believe in creating an environment where everyone can thrive, bring their best every day, and feel genuinely valued. That's why we offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your career, wellbeing, finances and lifestyle.

Our Benefits Include

• 23 days annual leave (excluding bank holidays), increasing with length of service.
• Holiday buy and sell scheme.
• Competitive pension scheme with company contribution matching.
• Life assurance.
• Group income protection.
• Enhanced family leave including maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental leave.
• Health cash plan.
• Free annual flu vaccination.
• Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 support.
• Free onsite parking at our Exeter headquarters.
• Cycle to Work scheme.
• Car share scheme.
• Subsidised onsite canteen at our Exeter headquarters.
• Give As You Earn charity scheme.
• Paid volunteering day.
• Retail discounts providing access to thousands of offers and savings.

Closing Date: 10th November 2026

Please note that the successful candidate will be subject to a mandatory DBS check as part of the onboarding process.

Be yourself, we like it that way.

Together, we will build a culture of belonging, where inclusion is instinctive. Diversity is our strength and a reflection of our communities. We care, we value everyone, we celebrate uniqueness.

Our core values, which are essential to our success, are:

• Be Rock Solid - Build trust and be trusted. Be the one we all look to and can depend on.
• Be You - We want you to bring your best everyday. Be yourself and make your mark in your individual way.
• Be the Future - Embrace change. Drive Progress. Own the challenge.