Laboratory Supervisor

Bowmay Consulting; Rochdale; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A renowned engineering firm is seeking an experienced Lab Team Leader to oversee technical trials and laboratory operations in Greater Manchester. The role requires strong hands-on skills with polymers and chemicals, along with leadership abilities to support and develop the team. The successful candidate will manage lab trials, analyze data, and maintain safety compliance. Attractive benefits include a competitive salary, 25 days holiday, and company pension, contributing to a supportive team culture that emphasizes training and innovation.

Benefits

Competitive salary

25 days holiday

Company pension

Occupational health benefits

Early Friday finish

Qualifications

• Experience in lab or technical environment with plastics or polymers.
• Strong data-driven and methodical approach.
• Clean driving license required.

Responsibilities

• Plan, run, and coordinate lab trials primarily with plastics.
• Set up and calibrate equipment for accurate results.
• Keep compliance records and inventories updated.
• Oversee safety standards and material handling.

Skills

Strong hands-on lab skills

Leadership and communication skills

Health & Safety understanding

Analytical skills

Education

Relevant degree (chemistry, materials science, etc.)

NVQ Level 3 in a technical field

Job description

Are you used to running technical trials, juggling multiple projects, and keeping a busy lab running smoothly?

Have you worked hands‑on with polymers, plastics, chemicals or technical equipment?

We’re looking for an experienced Lab Team Leader to join a fantastic business, based in Greater Manchester; one we’ve partnered with for many years. Known worldwide for their quality, innovation and technical excellence, they invest significantly in their machinery and their people; a large part of the workforce has been there for many, many years.

What you’ll get

• Competitive salary
• 25 days holiday
• Company pension
• Occupational health & optician benefits
• Occasional UK and overseas travel
• Early Friday finish

About you

• You work in a lab or technical environment, ideally with plastics, polymers, chemicals, materials testing or engineering
• A relevant degree (chemistry, materials science, polymer science, chemical engineering) or NVQ Level 3 in a technical field
• Strong hands‑on lab skills and equipment confidence
• You’re methodical, precise and date‑driven, able to keep multiple plates spinning
• You’re a supportive leader who can coach and develop your team
• You’ve got a strong understanding of Health & Safety, and compliance
• Your confident hosting customers and delivering technical support
• Strong leadership, organisational and communication skills (verbal and written)
• Full, clean driving licence

About the role

• You’ll plan, run and coordinate lab trials (mainly plastics / polymer)
• The set up and calibration of equipment will be part of your daily routine, ensuring accurate results
• You’ll analyse trial data and turn it into clear, detailed reports for internal teams and customers
• Documentation matters here; you’ll keep logs, compliance records and inventories up to date
• Safety is of the upmost importance. You’ll oversee material handling, waste disposal, and clean‑down processes
• Keep the lab running smoothly and arrange maintenance when needed
• Host customer visits and occasionally travel to offer technical support

About the company

• World leader in the design and manufacture of engineered products
• Huge drivers of development and innovation
• A supportive team culture with training and development opportunities