Technical Officer (Scientific Service)

Hampshire County Council; Portsmouth; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 27,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in Portsmouth seeks a proactive Technical Officer for the Food Chemistry Team. This role includes preparing food samples, conducting environmental monitoring, and performing laboratory maintenance. Ideal candidates should have strong attention to detail and excellent IT skills. Comprehensive training is offered, along with benefits such as a pension scheme and flexible working hours.

Benefits

Flexible working hours

Pension scheme

Interest-free travel loans

Family-friendly policies

Qualifications

• Proactive and physically capable for handling large food samples.
• Keen eye for detail and appreciation for Quality Systems.
• Ability to thrive in a team environment.

Responsibilities

• Prepare a wide range of food samples for analysis.
• Conduct environmental sampling in outdoor conditions.
• Perform routine maintenance and calibration of lab equipment.

Skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Organizational skills

IT skills

Teamwork

Job description

Technical Officer (Scientific Service)

Job Reference: HCC622693
Salary Range: £25,186 - £26,244 per annum
Work Location: Hampshire Scientific Service, Portsmouth
Hours per week: 37
Contract Type: Permanent
Closing Date: 30 November 2025
Interview Date: w/c 15 December 2025

The Role:

Hampshire Scientific Service is a Public Analyst and Official Food and Feed Control Laboratory which provides ISO 17025 accredited testing services and consultancy to Hampshire County Council departments and other Local Authorities.

We are seeking a proactive and physically capable Technical Officer to join our Food Chemistry Team, supporting both laboratory-based and field-based environmental monitoring activities. This varied role offers hands‑on experience across food sample preparation, analytical support, and environmental sampling.

Working hours are Monday to Friday, with flexibility to complete your hours between 8am and 5pm (dependent on workload).

Due to the nature of the samples, this role would not be suitable for individuals with food allergies e.g. peanuts.

What you’ll do:

This position involves the daily preparation of multiple large product samples (approximately 20 kg each), including items such as nuts, spices, rice, and fish; regular on‑site sampling including closed landfill sites and Hampshire County Council properties.

Based in our laboratory in Southsea, and primarily working within our Food Chemistry Team, your role will include:

• Food Sample Preparation: Prepare a wide range of food samples for laboratory analysis, including tasks such as cutting, deboning, blending, and homogenising products like meat, fish, confectionery, nuts, spices, and rice. Ensure accurate recording of sample identification, weights, and preparation details both manually and electronically
• Laboratory Support: Perform sample disposal, general housekeeping, and routine maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment to support operational efficiency and compliance
• Environmental Monitoring: Conduct regular sampling at closed landfill sites, including groundwater, surface water, leachate, and landfill gas. This involves working outdoors in varying weather conditions and adhering to health and safety protocols. Appropriate protective clothing will be provided
• On‑Site Sampling: Carry out sampling of waters and foods at external locations, including Hampshire County Council properties
• Analytical Techniques: Undertake basic analytical procedures, with training provided subject to demonstrated competency and performance

Other key responsibilities include manual handling, operating industrial blending equipment, and working in an outdoor environment exposed to varying weather conditions. The nature of the work requires a fast‑paced approach and a high level of physical activity, making this role well‑suited to individuals who thrive in dynamic, hands‑on settings.

Full training will be provided.

What we’re looking for:

We’re looking for someone with a keen eye for detail and a strong appreciation for the importance of Quality Systems. The ideal candidate will have excellent communication and organisational skills, thrive in a team environment, and demonstrate flexibility when responding to reactive work or last‑minute changes. Strong IT skills are essential, along with a proactive and adaptable approach to supporting the wider team.

This is an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to gain practical experience in both laboratory and environmental monitoring work.

Comprehensive induction programme with all necessary training.

Our benefits package includes details of the holiday entitlement, pension scheme, flexi‑time scheme, family‑friendly policies and interest‑free travel loans and discounts. We offer a flexible, motivating and inclusive workplace. We have created an environment that you can look forward to being a part of, where you are empowered to be your best and a workplace built on teamwork where people can grow and develop in their roles.

If you think you have what it takes to make a real difference in Hampshire, get in touch!

This post is subject to Non‑Police Personnel Vetting. Further information about this process will be provided to successful candidates. Candidates must have resided in the UK for a minimum of 3 years in order for clearance to be obtained.

Contact Details for an Informal Discussion:

Hampshire County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults. We expect all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment.

In order to combat discrimination, no unnecessary conditions or requirements will be applied which could have a disproportionately adverse effect on any one group. All sections of the population will have equal access to jobs. No applicant or employee will receive less favourable treatment because of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, marriage or civil partnership and pregnancy or maternity, unless a Genuine Occupational Requirement (GOR) applies.

We are a Disability Confident Employer - committed to ensuring that our recruitment and selection process is inclusive and accessible.