Senior Microbiologist | 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 Senior Microbiologist to lead a team in delivering microbiological services. You will ensure compliance with health regulations, conduct tests on food and water samples, and mentor junior colleagues. Ideal candidates should have over 5 years of relevant experience and a degree in Microbiology or a related field. Join us for a rewarding career with a comprehensive benefits package.

Benefits

Generous benefits package

Competitive salary

Local Government Pension Scheme

Staff discount scheme

Annual leave and bank holidays

Qualifications

• 5+ years' experience in a food microbiology laboratory with progressive responsibility.
• Strong knowledge of water testing legislation and UKAS accreditation requirements.
• Experience managing staff and resources, including HR procedures.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of technical staff in delivering microbiological services.
• Manage workflows ensuring compliance with standards.
• Conduct microbiological testing of food and water samples.

Skills

Team leadership

Microbiological testing

Project management

Budgeting

Health and Safety knowledge

Education

Degree in Microbiology or related discipline

Job description

Job Description

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

Are you an experienced Food Microbiologist ready to take the next step in your career? Join our Scientific Services team at the Preston Laboratory and play a key role in protecting public health through expert microbiological analysis.

As a Senior Microbiologist, you will:

• Lead a team of technical staff in delivering a full range of microbiological services.
• Manage complex workflows and ensure compliance with statutory, regulatory, and professional standards.
• Undertake microbiological testing of food, potable and recreational waters, and water samples for Legionella.
• 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 Microbiology, Food Science or a related discipline, with significant experience in a similar role.
• At least 5 years' experience in a food microbiology laboratory with progressive responsibility in increasingly senior roles.
• Strong knowledge of water testing legislation, Health and Safety Executive guidance and experience of testing of water samples for Legionella
• Experience of managing staff and resources, including HR procedures and budgeting.
• Demonstrable understanding of UKAS accreditation requirements.

Weekend working will be required on a rota basis.

If you would like an informal conversation about this role, please contact Rachel Grundy at [e-mail]

Closing date: 22/09/2025 Interviews: 02/10/2025

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.

Job Description & Person Specification