Lead Laboratory Technician

Leprino Foods; Craigavon; On-site; GBP 43,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food manufacturer in Northern Ireland is seeking a Lead Laboratory Technician for the Quality Department. In this role, you will ensure health and safety compliance, lead quality assurance activities, and support investigations into product quality. With a competitive salary of £43,000 and opportunities for career development, this position offers a dynamic work environment. Applicants should have an HND in Food Science and relevant lab experience. Flexible working hours are required.

Benefits

Competitive Salary & Annual Bonus

Generous Annual Leave

Pension Contributions

Health & Wellness support

Career Development opportunities

Recognition Programs

Inclusive Culture

Qualifications

• Minimum 1 year of relevant laboratory experience or qualifying HND.
• Demonstrated understanding of quality management systems.
• Knowledge of safe working practices within a laboratory environment.

Responsibilities

• Ensure Health & Safety Compliance through SOPs and safety audits.
• Lead Quality Assurance Activities including hygiene and calibration.
• Support Investigations on product complaints and quality issues.
• Drive Continuous Improvement via trend analysis and projects.
• Coordinate Training & Development within the department.

Skills

Proficient in Microsoft Office

Strong communication skills

Attention to detail

Team-oriented

Problem-solving

Education

HND or equivalent qualification in Food Science

Minimum Grade C in English, Maths, and a Science subject

Job description

Lead Laboratory Technician

Leprino Foods is seeking a dedicated and experienced Lead Laboratory Technician to join our dynamic Quality Department at our Magheralin facility.

In this pivotal role, you will be responsible for upholding the integrity of our testing programmes, supporting investigations into product quality concerns, and delivering expert technical guidance across a range of quality assurance activities. As a key link between laboratory operations and broader quality initiatives, you will play a vital role in ensuring accurate data collection, analysis, and reporting to drive continuous improvement in our products and processes.

Why Leprino?

Leprino is the world’s largest Mozzarella producer, and you will have the chance to be part of a global team of individuals passionate about producing and delivering high-quality products that help feed and nourish families around the world. Our success is built on the dedication of our incredible employees, and we believe in sharing that success with you. Hiring great people who are in it for the long run is our goal! Your impact will be noticed and appreciated, as you seek to further our company, our customers, and one another.

What we can offer you

• Competitive Salary & Annual Bonus – Reflective of your experience and contributions.
• Generous Annual Leave – Enhanced holiday entitlement
• Pension Contributions – Up to 10% employer contributions.
• Health & Wellness – Access to private health cash plans, mental health support, and wellness initiatives.
• Career Development – Ongoing training, certifications, and advancement opportunities.
• Recognition Programs – Celebrating your achievements and milestones.
• Inclusive Culture – A diverse, supportive environment where your voice is valued.

Hours of work:

• 40 hours per week (9am – 5pm) – some flexibility may be required

Salary:

• £43,000 per annum

What you will be doing:

• Ensure Health & Safety Compliance: Follow standard operating procedures, report hazards, and participate in safety audits and investigations.
• Lead Quality Assurance Activities: Manage hygiene testing, chemical concentration schedules, traceability systems, and equipment calibration.
• Support Investigations & Reporting: Conduct root cause analysis on product complaints and quality issues, compile detailed reports, and recommend corrective actions.
• Maintain Accurate Documentation: Oversee quality records, internal audits, certification tracking, and ensure timely and accurate data reporting.
• Drive Continuous Improvement: Contribute to cross-functional projects, trend analysis, and co-product enhancement initiatives.
• Coordinate Training & Development: Manage departmental training programmes, assess competency, and maintain training records.
• Promote Environmental Responsibility: Support waste management, spill response, and environmental compliance activities.

Essential Criteria:

• HND or equivalent qualification in Food Science or a related technical discipline
• Minimum Grade C in English, Maths, and a Science subject at GCSE/O’Level (or equivalent)
• Proficient in using Microsoft Office, particularly Word and Excel
• At least 1 year of relevant laboratory experience, or a qualifying HND in lieu of experience
• Demonstrated understanding of quality and laboratory management systems
• Knowledge of safe working practices within a laboratory environment
• Strong communication, people management, and influencing skills
• Proven ability to prioritise tasks, meet deadlines, and solve problems proactively
• High attention to detail with a commitment to quality and continuous improvement
• Self-motivated, team-oriented, and adaptable to change
• Willingness to work Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm, with flexibility for shift work if required

Desirable Criteria:

• Formal qualification or accredited training in Auditing or COSHH
• Relevant experience in food or dairy manufacturing and production
• Experience conducting Risk Assessments or COSHH Assessments
• Involvement in internal, customer, or third-party audits
• Experience handling customer complaints and supporting investigations
• Familiarity with laboratory management practices, including ISO 17025 standards
• Knowledge of hygiene investigations and implementing control measures in production environments

Please note: The selection panel reserves the right to enhance the criteria to support the shortlisting process.

If you are interested in applying for this role,

Please submit your CV by Friday 17th October 2025 on NI Jobs

Leprino Foods is an Equal Opportunity Employer.