Scientist

United Utilities; Leeds; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading utilities company in the UK is seeking a scientifically competent individual for a laboratory production role. This full-time position involves direct production activities, analytical quality control, and supporting best practices in a team environment. Ideal candidates will have a minimum of 3 years of laboratory experience, strong analytical skills, and an NVQ Level 3 in a relevant scientific discipline. This role requires regular weekend work and offers excellent benefits, including a competitive salary and various perks.

Benefits

26 days annual leave increase to 30 days after four years

Up to 14% employer pension contribution

Comprehensive healthcare plan

Performance-related bonus

Gym discounts

Employee assistance plan

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years of laboratory experience.
• Understanding of ISO 17025 and ISO 5667 regulations.
• Proficient in a minimum of 3 analytical techniques.

Responsibilities

• Direct production activities in a laboratory environment.
• Investigate anomalous results under quality control procedures.
• Initiate equipment maintenance and repair.

Skills

Laboratory skills

Analytical techniques

Communication skills

Education

NVQ / QCF Level 3 in Biology or scientific discipline

Job description

Salary - £33355

Work Type - Onsite

Job Location - Lingley Mere - Laboratories, Lingley Green Avenue, Great Sankey, Warrington, WA5 3LP

Role Type - Permanent

Employment Type - Full Time

Working Hours - 37.0 Hours per Week

United Utilities’ (UU) purpose is to deliver great water for a stronger, greener and healthier North West of England. We are committed to providing our services in a way that respects the environment, supports the economy, and benefits society.

We value diversity, inclusion and innovation in our workplace, and we foster a culture where our people can grow, excel, and be themselves.

We uphold our ethics, values and business model to fulfil our mission and, by setting clear goals and objectives, we create sustainable long-term value for our colleagues, customers and communities. Whether you work with a team that shares your vision or join a network of peers with similar interests, you will find a welcoming and supportive organisation to be part of.

We’ve got a lot to offer. You’ll be part of a thriving FTSE 100 company and will enjoy a range of core benefits that reflect your value and value contribution.

Benefits

• A generous annual leave package of 26 days, which increases to 30 days after four years of service (increases one day per year), in addition to 8 bank holidays
• A competitive pension scheme with up to 14% employer contribution, 21% combined, and life cover
• Up to 7.5% performance-related bonus scheme, as well as recognition awards for outstanding achievements
• A comprehensive healthcare plan through our company-funded scheme
• MyGymDiscounts - gym and wellness benefit that offers up to 25% off on gym memberships and digital fitness subscriptions
• Best Doctors
• Salary Finance
• Wealth at Work courses
• Deals and discounts
• EVolve Car Scheme
• Employee Assistance Plan
• Mental health first aiders
• ShareBuy
• MORE Choices flexible benefits
• Enhanced parental leave schemes

Job Purpose

This role is for a scientific and technically competent individual operating within a laboratory production environment, focusing on direct production activities and analytical quality control and inaccuracies which arise outside of the quality assurance process, supporting best practice within team, departments and external bodies.

The role operates as a direct report to the Senior Production Scientists and liaising with the Technical Production Scientist and Technical Specialist within the Life Sciences team.

Accountabilities & Responsibilities

• Direct Production activities in a Life Sciences environment
• Attain competency under a continuing professional development process
• Undertake investigation of anomalous results under analytical quality control procedures
• Support implementation of new equipment / improved techniques from own team.
• Support ongoing workloads and projects within Scientific Services
• Best practice integration and continuous improvement
• Initiate equipment maintenance and repair
• Essential communication, influencing and interpersonal skills within team
• IT and LIMS skills
• Understanding of Health and Safety.
• Financial awareness

Technical Skills, Qualifications & Experience

• Scientifically adept with recent practical laboratory skills
• Demonstration of Competent person status, including fully compliant CPD.
• Proficient analyst status in a variety of analytical techniques within the team covering a minimum of 3 methods
• Good understanding of ISO 17025, ISO 5667 and all other related regulatory requirements
• Minimum of 3 years laboratory experience
• NVQ / QCF Level 3 or equivalent in a relevant Biology / scientific discipline in line with entry to Membership of a relevant scientific professional body such as the Royal Society of Biology

Important Information

This role requires regular weekend working (1 in 4 weekends) and standby cover on a rota basis once fully trained.

We rely on every employee to ensure our customers receive the best possible service, day in, day out. In return, we ensure that you will be well rewarded for your efforts, from an excellent salary through to development opportunities that will really kick start a thriving career here at UU.