Laboratory Technician (Microbiologist) Leeds (UK)

Zoetis; Leeds; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Job summary

VPG, part of Zoetis, seeks a Laboratory Technician (Microbiologist) to support daily microbiology lab activities in a fast-paced environment. You will prepare and culture clinical samples, perform basic bacterial identification, and maintain accurate records.

The role offers opportunities to contribute to QA, equipment maintenance and process improvements. The ideal candidate holds a relevant scientific degree or has at least two years of lab experience, with strong attention to detail and good

Qualifications

• A relevant Scientific Degree or a minimum of 2 years' relevant laboratory experience.
• Practical understanding of microbiology and laboratory testing principles.
• Ability to plan, prioritise and manage workload effectively.
• Excellent attention to detail and high accuracy.
• Experience with computer applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and ideally LIMS.

Responsibilities

• Perform microbiology laboratory activities in accordance with SOPs, local practices and safety requirements.
• Prepare clinical samples for routine investigations and culture using appropriate media.
• Carry out basic identification of bacteria and maintain accurate records.
• Enter and retrieve laboratory data using LIMS and other systems.
• Maintain equipment, perform routine checks and ensure cleanliness.
• Support SOP development and staff training as needed.
• Plan and prioritise workload and participate in quality assurance activities.

Job description

Join VPG, part of Zoetis

VPG is proud to be part of Zoetis, the world's leading animal health company. Together, we are committed to advancing animal health through science, innovation and high-quality diagnostic services that help veterinary professionals make informed decisions and improve outcomes for animals.

We are now looking for an enthusiastic and detail-oriented Laboratory Technician (Microbiologist) to join our laboratory team.

This is an excellent opportunity for a scientifically minded professional who enjoys working in a fast-paced laboratory environment and wants to develop their technical expertise within a global organisation.

The Opportunity

As a Laboratory Technician, you will support the day-to-day scientific and technical activities of the microbiology laboratory, ensuring that samples are processed accurately, efficiently and in accordance with established protocols, SOPs and quality standards.

You will be responsible for preparing and processing clinical samples, culturing specimens onto appropriate media, carrying out basic bacterial identification and maintaining accurate laboratory records.

You will also contribute to quality assurance, equipment maintenance, stock control, laboratory development and the continuous improvement of our processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform microbiology laboratory activities in accordance with SOPs, local working practices and Health & Safety requirements.
• Prepare clinical samples for routine investigations and work independently to agreed protocols.
• Culture clinical samples using appropriate media and perform basic identification of bacteria.
• Participate in specimen reception, including the receipt, recording, storage and disposal of specimens.
• Identify and resolve specimen-related issues appropriately.
• Enter and retrieve laboratory data accurately using LIMS and other authorised systems.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, including routine checks, temperature monitoring and cleanliness.
• Support the preparation, cleaning and decontamination of equipment and laboratory work areas.
• Prepare reagents for routine laboratory use.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation to support the accuracy and integrity of laboratory reports.
• Support the training of Laboratory Assistants in relevant techniques and procedures.
• Plan and prioritise workload effectively, responding appropriately to routine and urgent requirements.
• Assist with the development and updating of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Maintain stock levels and support efficient ordering of laboratory supplies.
• Ensure laboratory equipment is maintained and quality assurance procedures are followed.
• Maintain Quality Assurance documentation for the designated laboratory area and elevate issues appropriately.
• Assist with the introduction and development of new laboratory procedures and techniques.
• Use LIMS and other laboratory software in accordance with authorised protocols.
• Communicate professionally and effectively with colleagues, clients and other stakeholders.
• Maintain ongoing competency against training plans and actively participate in CPD activities.
• Undertake other reasonable duties as required by the Laboratory Manager.

What We're Looking For

• A relevant Scientific Degree, or a minimum of 2 years' relevant laboratory experience; a higher level of education may be considered in lieu of experience.
• Practical understanding of microbiology and the principles underpinning laboratory testing.
• Ability to plan, prioritise and manage workload effectively.
• Ability to work systematically and independently while meeting time-sensitive deadlines.
• Excellent attention to detail and a high degree of accuracy.
• Ability to concentrate for extended periods and demonstrate good manual dexterity.
• Experience with computer applications, including Word, Excel and PowerPoint, and ideally LIMS.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to communicate technical information clearly and accurately, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues at all levels within a laboratory environment.
• Flexibility and the ability to adapt positively to change.
• Ability to support and train other technical staff where required.
• Experience with LIMS/DTE or similar pathology laboratory systems.
• Fellowship of the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS).
• Understanding of administrative systems used within pathology.
• Knowledge of animal diseases relevant to the diagnostic testing service.

Quality, Safety & Compliance

Safety and quality are fundamental to everything we do. You will be expected to:

• Follow all laboratory SOPs, policies and procedures at all times.
• Comply with Health & Safety, COSHH, manual handling and other relevant requirements.
• Complete all mandatory and statutory training within required timeframes.
• Report incidents, adverse events and potential quality issues promptly.
• Ensure laboratory equipment is operated and maintained in accordance with SOPs.
• Maintain confidentiality and exercise appropriate professional discretion.
• Contribute actively to continuous improvement and quality assurance.

Our Values & Culture

At VPG and Zoetis, we believe our people are central to delivering better outcomes in animal health.

• Communicate with clarity, professionalism and respect.
• Demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and improvement.
• Champion diversity and inclusion.
• Role-model the values and behaviours of VPG.
• Work collaboratively and support colleagues across the laboratory.
• Take pride in delivering high-quality scientific work.

Why Join VPG / Zoetis?

Joining VPG means becoming part of the wider Zoetis family, giving you the opportunity to develop your career within a global animal health organisation while making a meaningful contribution to veterinary diagnostics and animal health.

If you are a microbiology professional looking for your next opportunity and want to be part of a science-led organisation where your work makes a difference, we would love to hear from you.

About Zoetis

About Zoetis
At Zoetis, our purpose is to nurture the world and humankind by advancing care for animals. As a Fortune 500 company and the world leader in animal health, we discover, develop, manufacture and commercialise vaccines, medicines, diagnostics and other technologies for companion animals and livestock. We know our people drive our success. Our award‑winning culture, built around our Core Beliefs, focuses on our colleagues' careers, connection and support. We offer competitive healthcare and retirement savings benefits, along with an array of benefits, policies and programs to support employee well‑being in every sense, from health and financial wellness to family and lifestyle resources.