Senior Chemist | Analytical Services | Full Time | Preston

Lancashire County Council; Preston; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government council in Preston is seeking an experienced Analytical Chemist to lead a team in providing essential chemical analysis services to safeguard public health. The ideal candidate will have a relevant degree and at least five years of experience in an analytical lab, preferably within the food sector. This role offers a competitive salary, benefits including generous leave and pension scheme, along with opportunities for personal development.

Benefits

Local Government Pension Scheme

26 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Staff discount scheme

Qualifications

• Significant experience in analytical chemistry laboratory.
• Minimum five years' experience in a similar role.
• Understanding of UKAS accreditation requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of technical staff in analytical chemistry services.
• Manage complex workflows and ensure compliance.
• Undertake analysis of food and environmental samples.

Skills

Team Leadership

Analytical Chemistry

Project Management

Wet Chemistry Techniques

Molecular Techniques

Education

Degree in Chemistry or related discipline

Job description

Overview

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Job Description

Salary £40,778 - £46,142 per annum | Permanent, Full time 37 hours per week | Preston

Are you a skilled Analytical Chemist looking for a new challenge? Join our Scientific Services team at the Preston Laboratory and contribute to safeguarding public health through expert chemical analysis of food, feed and environmental samples.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of technical staff in delivering a full range of analytical chemistry services.
• Manage complex workflows and ensure compliance with statutory, regulatory, and professional standards.
• Undertake analysis of food and feed samples in line with Food Safety Act 1990 & Agriculture Act 1970.
• Undertake chemical analysis of potable and waste waters, supporting enforcement and regulatory processes.
• Support the Principal Officer in planning and delivering projects and service improvements.
• Deliver training and mentorship to junior colleagues and contribute to continuous professional development across the team.

What we're looking for

• A degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Food Science or a related discipline, with significant experience in a similar role.
• A minimum of five years' experience working in an analytical chemistry laboratory, preferably within the food sector, with progressive responsibility in increasingly senior roles.
• Knowledge of the principles and underpinning legislation of analytical chemistry including the Food Safety Act 1990 and the Agricultural Act 1970.
• Demonstrable understanding of the application of the principles of analytical chemistry, including wet chemistry techniques and molecular techniques such as ELISA and PCR.
• Experience of managing staff and resources, including HR procedures and budgeting.
• Demonstrable understanding of UKAS accreditation requirements.

Informal conversation

If you would like an informal conversation about this role, please contact Amy Calderbank, [e-mail]

Closing date: 22/09/2025  |  Interviews: 01/10/2025

Why join us?

By joining Lancashire County Council, you can shape the career path that is right for you with the opportunity to gain personal and professional qualifications, coaching and mentoring - Lancashire County Council really is the place where you can have the career you've always wanted.

In return for your passion and expertise, we also offer a generous benefits package which includes:

• A competitive salary and Local Government Pension Scheme with generous employer contributions and optional Additional Voluntary Contributions.
• A great holiday entitlement of 26 days annual leave, which rises with length of service. You will also be entitled to 8 Bank Holidays, 2 additional statutory Bank Holidays, and have the option to buy additional leave each year.
• Our staff discount scheme in partnership with Vivup allowing you to access discounts with a range of UK retailers, saving on everything from weekly food shops to white goods and cars.

Please ensure you have uploaded and attached your supporting statement to evidence how you meet the criteria for the role. The panel may be unable to shortlist you for interview without this evidence.