Laboratory Specialist

Line Up Aviation; Broughton in Furness; On-site; GBP 5,510,000 - 7,026,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Shift allowance (20%)

Job summary

Line Up Aviation seeks a Laboratory Specialist for a 12-month contract based in Broughton. You will conduct hands-on chemical analyses, prepare samples and audit processes to ensure quality and compliance. The role involves leading trials and reporting results to engineering and production teams.

Candidates should have a chemistry degree (or equivalent) with hands-on lab experience, familiar with IC/ICP/XRF/FTIR and related titrations, and comfortable working within GMP/quality systems.

Qualifications

• Hands-on laboratory testing and sample preparation experience.
• Knowledge of IC, ICP, XRF, FTIR and titration methods.
• Ability to follow standards (ASTM/ISO) and document results.

Responsibilities

• Conduct chemical analyses of surface treatments, rinses and related fluids.
• Lead trials for new products and document results for QA teams.
• Operate and maintain lab equipment and ensure accurate COSHH records.

Skills

Laboratory testing

Chemical analysis

IC/ICP

XRF/FTIR

Titrations

COSHH knowledge

Data analysis/reporting

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry

Master's degree in Chemistry

Higher National Certificate in Chemistry

Tools

IC/ICP instruments

XRF

FTIR

Job description

On behalf of our client, we are seeking to recruit a Laboratory Specialist on an initial 12-month contract. The Laboratory Specialist will be responsible for conducting a wide range of hands‑on laboratory testing to validate material properties, product integrity and process compliance. The role will also involve chemical sample preparation and analysis, as well as auditing special manufacturing processes to ensure they meet the required quality and compliance standards.

Role: Laboratory Specialist

Pay: £39.45 per hour Via Umbrella + 20% Shift allowance

Location: Broughton

Contract: Monday - Friday, Double day shift pattern, One week of morning (6:00am - 1:10pm) One week of afternoons (1:30pm - 8:40pm) 12 Months contract

IR35 Status: Inside

Security Clearance: BPSS

Responsibilities

• Chemical Analysis of surface treatment chemical & rinse tanks, effluent, sealant, paint & hydraulic fluids
• Lead trials for new products before they transition into use on the shop floor
• Perform and document a variety of chemical analysis including IC, ICP-OES, titrations (manual & automated) XRF, FTIR, Surface Tension, COD, surfactants and cloth analysis in accordance with AITM, ASTM, ISO, and other relevant standards.
• Operate, calibrate, and maintain Laboratory equipment.
• Analyse test data, generate comprehensive reports, and communicate results to engineering and production teams.
• Perform precise sample preparation and dilations for critical analytical analysis techniques including IC, ICP, XRF and various titration methods
• Support failure non conformance by providing detailed chemical analysis using using a variety of techniques
• As part of process Inspection and control, collaborate with production teams to troubleshoot process deviations and implement corrective actions.
• Have knowledge of and be able to provide technical support to regarding the following;
• Chemical surface treatments: anodizing, chemical conversion coatings,etching, and plating.
• Mechanical surface treatments: shot peening
• Corrosion inhibiting coatings: application of paints, primers, and specialised protective coatings.
• Develop and maintain laboratory procedures and work instructions.
• Carry out / Review COSHH & Risk Assesments
• Ensure all testing and inspection activities are accurately documented in the quality management system.
• Interpret engineering drawings, technical specifications, and standards to determine testing and inspection requirements.

Essential & Desirable Skills

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemistry or a closely related technical field.
• Alternatively Higher National Certificate in Chemistry or equivalent with industrial experience
• Theoretical knowledge of Ion Chromatography (IC) or similar, Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), Fourier-transform Infrared Spectroscopy & various titration types
• Proven experience in a hands‑on laboratory environment undertaking chemical analysis involving sample preparation and dilutions
• Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of chemical testing theory & principles.
• In-depth understanding of special processes, chemical surface treatments, and coating systems (paints)
• Ability to interpret technical specifications and industry standards (e.g., ASTM, ISO, AMS).
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Proficient in technical report writing and data analysis.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment and autonomously when required