Laboratory Technician (Microbiologist) Leeds (UK)

Zoetis; Leeds; On-site; GBP 22,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private medical insurance

Pension plan

Annual leave

Employee assistance programme

Job summary

Zoetis' VPG division in Leeds is seeking a dedicated Laboratory Technician (Microbiologist) to join our busy microbiology team. You will support day-to-day activities, process clinical samples, culture specimens and perform basic bacterial identifications in line with SOPs.

This role offers hands-on training, exposure to LIMS and QA practices within a global animal health organisation, with opportunities to develop technical skills, contribute to quality improvement, and advance your career in

Qualifications

• Minimum a scientific degree or 2 years’ laboratory experience.
• Knowledge of microbiology and lab testing principles.
• Ability to plan, prioritise and manage workload effectively.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Experience with Word, Excel and PowerPoint; familiarity with LIMS.

Responsibilities

• Process clinical samples and culture on appropriate media.
• Identify bacteria and maintain accurate laboratory records.
• Operate LIMS and ensure QA and safety compliance.
• Support training of Laboratory Assistants and SOP updates.
• Maintain equipment and stock control; contribute to QA.

Skills

Attention to detail

Microbiology techniques

LIMS experience

Time management

Data recording

Education

Scientific degree

IBMS Fellowship (desirable)

Tools

LIMS

MS Office

Job description

Laboratory Technician (Microbiologist) LEEDS UK | VPG

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 escal
• 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

Essential:

• 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.

Desirable:

• 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

• 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.

  Our Values & Culture

  • 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.

  Full time

  Why Join Zoetis?

  • Innovative Science & Technology – Work with cutting-edge solutions that enhance animal health and well-being.
  • Global Impact – Join a team that supports veterinarians, farmers, and pet owners worldwide.
  • People-First Culture – Thrive in an environment that values diversity, growth, and work-life balance.
  • Sustainability & Responsibility – Make a difference in a company committed to a healthier, more sustainable world.

  Comprehensive Benefits

  • Comprehensive Benefits – Enjoy life assurance, group income protection, and a robust pension plan with a generous company contribution.
  • Health & Wellness – Benefit from private medical insurance, health assessments, dental insurance, and discounted gym memberships.
  • Financial Security – Access mortgage advice, will writing services, and a share ownership plan with matching contributions.
  • Work-Life Balance – Take advantage of paid annual leave to rest and recharge.
  • Professional Growth – Enjoy industry-competitive salaries, merit-based salary progression, and a global performance bonus.
  • Employee Support – Our Employee Assistance Programme offers counselling, welfare advice, and a 24-hour confidential helpline.

  Our Core Beliefs

  • Our Colleagues Make the Difference – We invest in our people and their growth.
  • Always Do the Right Thing – Integrity and ethics guide everything we do.
  • Customer Obsessed – We put our customers at the heart of our business.
  • Run It Like You Own It – We take ownership and drive results.
  • We Are One Zoetis – Collaboration makes us stronger.