Sample Reception Team Leader

RPS; Bedford; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking company as a Sample Reception Team Leader in Bedford. This full-time role involves managing a dedicated team responsible for overseeing sample reception and ensuring quality delivery. You'll collaborate with clients to design tailored analytical programs while fostering a collaborative work environment. Enjoy a transparent career pathway and personal development opportunities within a solution-driven team. Your contributions will support compliance with international standards and environmental regulations, making a meaningful impact in the agrochemical sector.

Benefits

Personal development plan

Transparent career pathway

Flexible work environment

Collaborative team culture

Qualifications

• Interest in science with relevant qualifications preferred.
• Experience in fast-paced environments is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Manage the team daily to ensure smooth operations.
• Oversee management of samples, including receiving and logging into LIMS.
• Monitor and report on KPIs, risks, and opportunities to senior management.

Skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Team management

Laboratory experience

LIMS software familiarity

Education

Relevant science qualifications

Job description

Join to apply for the Sample Reception Team Leader role at RPS.

RPS Laboratories are seeking a Sample Reception Team Leader to join our state-of-the-art laboratory based in Bedford. This is a permanent, full-time role with a fixed working pattern from 8:00am to 4:00pm to meet delivery timings.

As Sample Reception Team Leader, you will manage a team of Sample Reception Officers responsible for overseeing incoming work, reviewing, and booking in samples to ensure accurate recording and understanding of client requirements, as well as maintaining the sample reception areas.

About The Team

RPS Laboratories comprises Analysts, Chemists, and Technicians operating from purpose-built facilities with a long history of providing expert advice and analytical solutions to the agrochemical sector. Our labs are renowned for solving complex analytical problems across food, feed, and forage crops.

Our State-of-the-art Laboratories

• Manchester lab was one of the first in the UK to gain MCERTS accreditation for stack emissions analysis.
• Bedford lab was among the first in the UK to gain UKAS accreditation for PFAS chemical analysis following monitoring at the Buncefield oil terminal.

About You

Your role as a Sample Reception Team Leader is crucial in helping us conduct investigations and develop solutions to support clients in complying with international standards, MRLs, and environmental regulations. You will collaborate with clients to design analytical programs tailored to their regulatory needs, leveraging our advanced instrumentation. You will also provide analytical support during remediation and routine monitoring projects.

Your Responsibilities

• Manage the team daily to ensure smooth operations and on-time, quality delivery.
• Oversee management of samples, including receiving, logging into LIMS, storage, and disposal.
• Organize storage areas for accessibility and sufficient capacity.
• Follow procedures for basic sample preparation and analysis.
• Ensure team training and competency.
• Monitor and report on KPIs, risks, and opportunities to senior management.
• Communicate resource needs and assist in developing annual budgets.
• Support other teams such as Logistics and Project Coordination as needed.

Skills, Knowledge, and Experience

• Interest in science, with relevant qualifications preferred.
• Experience in fast-paced environments is desirable.
• Attention to detail and ability to work under pressure.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Laboratory experience and familiarity with LIMS software are advantageous.
• Line management experience is a plus.

What’s in it for you?

We offer a personal development plan and a transparent career pathway, supporting your growth. Join us and be part of a solution-driven team where your contributions matter.

Why RPS?

We foster a flexible, collaborative work environment with agile offices to support work-life balance. As part of Tetra Tech, we deliver impactful solutions globally, supporting your career development in a meaningful way.

Next Steps

If your profile matches our needs, we will contact you for a competency interview. Please prepare your CV and apply online. All applications are welcome.