Laboratory Technician

The Donkey Sanctuary; Exeter; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Part time

Job summary

An animal welfare charity in the UK is seeking a Laboratory Technician to support clinical and pathological laboratory services. The role involves routine testing and analysis of samples, requiring previous biological laboratory experience and a relevant degree. This part-time position offers competitive benefits including a pension and generous leave.

Benefits

Competitive pension

Life assurance

Healthshield

31 days holiday, rising to 34

Wellbeing team

Recorded Pilates and Yoga classes

Free parking

Subsidised restaurant and shop

Qualifications

• Experience in a biological laboratory is essential.
• Knowledge of laboratory principles is required.
• Educated to degree level in a relevant field.

Responsibilities

• Provide in‑house clinical and pathological laboratory services.
• Perform routine haematology and biochemistry on blood samples.
• Monitor and test the worm burden of charity donkeys.

Skills

Previous biological laboratory experience

Knowledge of laboratory principles

Competent IT skills

Knowledge of equine parasitology and PCR

Education

Degree in biological or animal science

Job description

We now have an excellent opportunity for an organised and professional team player to join the Research and Operational Support team as Laboratory Technician.

Position: Laboratory Technician

Location: Brookfield Farm, near Honiton, East Devon (an area of outstanding natural beauty)

Hours: Part-time 30 hours per week, Monday-Thursday

Salary: £29,076 pro rata

Contract: Fixed term role starting as soon as possible until 1 January 2027

Closing Date: Sunday 16 November 2025

About The Role

Under the direction of the Laboratory Manager, you will provide in‑house clinical and pathological laboratory services, interpret results and communicate relevant findings to the clinical veterinary teams and other relevant teams or personnel.

• Carry out routine haematology, biochemistry and endocrinology on blood samples submitted by the veterinary teams and promptly highlight abnormal results.
• Carry out routine faecal parasitology on faecal samples submitted to the laboratory for intestinal parasites, liver fluke and lungworm.
• Monitor the worm burden of charity donkeys by regular testing of a representative sample as determined by the Research Department.
• Process blood and faecal samples from rehomed donkeys, private donkeys, holding bases and Ireland as part of an advisory service.
• Perform PCR tests on a variety of bodily fluid and tissue samples submitted for donkeys and mules with suspected infections and report the results to the veterinary surgeon.
• Provide laboratory‑based support to research and veterinary team projects.
• Support the Laboratory Manager in training new staff and teaching students and visitors.

About You

• Previous biological laboratory experience.
• Knowledge and practical experience of laboratory principles.
• Educated to degree level (or equivalent) in a biological or animal science.
• Competent IT skills.
• Knowledge of equine parasitology and experience in using PCR (desirable).
• Self‑motivated with a flexible attitude.
• Committed to making a difference for donkeys and the people that rely on them.

As part of the process, you will be asked to upload your CV and Cover Letter once you click to apply.

Benefits

• Competitive pension.
• Life assurance.
• Healthshield.
• 31 days holiday (including Bank holidays), rising to 34 days each full year of service.
• Wellbeing team.
• Recorded Pilates and Yoga classes.
• Long service awards.
• Healthshield plan.
• Free parking.
• Subsidised restaurant and shop.

About The Organisation

The sanctuary is one of the UK’s largest international animal welfare charities, currently supporting projects in over 35 countries worldwide, working for a world where donkeys and mules live free from suffering and their contribution to humanity is fully valued.

The Charity is a Disability Confident Employer, committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable people (children and adults) and expects all staff and volunteers to undertake this commitment. Applicants will be subject to safer recruitment processes, including an application for a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check where required for the post.

PLEASE NOTE: This role is being advertised by NFP People on behalf of the organisation #INDNFP.