John Thompson and Sons Ltd Looking for Technical Specialist – Laboratory at Belfast Full Time

JOB TITLE  Technical Specialist – Laboratory

REPORTING TO  Laboratory Manager

RESPONSIBLE FOR   Staff as required when providing cover

MAIN PURPOSE OF JOB

This role will impact on the success of the company through implementation and management of laboratory processes, test methods and associated quality systems to ensure ongoing compliance, accreditation, customer support and satisfaction. 

PRINCIPLE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The role will ensure:

·Current methods and procedures are reviewed in order to maintain and improve analytical efficiency

·Effective and timely data collection, record systems and calibration standards within the function 

·Identification of new areas of work and/or evaluation of new techniques or modifications of existing methodology to improve efficiency and quality

·Development and Implementation of approved new test methods

·All work activities are in compliance with UKAS (ISO ), and all other relevant standards, policies and procedures

·Professional liaison with customers on matters of overall requirements and results

·Effective technical support on a daily basis within the laboratory & quality functions

·Effective communication with both internal and external customers and clients

·Effective liaison with external services in the planning and implementation of instrumental installation, evaluation, maintenance and repair

·Cover is provided to the Laboratory & Quality teams as required to maintain adherence to the quality policy and schemes

·Standard operating procedures and analytical methods are accurately documented

·Selection, sorting and preparation of samples in the laboratory as required 

·Chemical and physical analysis and test methods are carried out as required 

·Sample details are accurately entered in to LIMS as required

·LIMS new releases and upgrades are identified, evaluated and implemented as required

·Process samples through NIR as required

·Monitoring of Daily Raw Material exception report

·Accurate and timely analysis of laboratory and / quality data and the production of ad hoc records and reports as required 

·Effective management of resources

·Active participation in any research and development activities within the laboratory and quality function 

·Active participation in laboratory and quality review meetings

·All company policy are complied with and supported

·All Health & Safety procedures are adhered to in the laboratory and mill

·Personal training and development needs are identified with manager and all relevant training is attended

·Laboratory staff training and development needs are identified with manager and actioned

·Maintenance of the laboratory to acceptable hygiene and health & safety standards

·Induction, company training and appraisal is supported as required

·Any other duties are carried out as appropriate

CRITERIA

ESSENTIAL

Personal Skills

Able to communicate effectively internally and externally 

Able to plan and work to deadlines

Capable of solving problems and working on own initiative

Self motivated

Capable of working in a team environment

Customer focussed

Capable of leading and motivating the team

Pays close attention to detail and is accurate

Education & knowledge

The candidate should hold at least 2 A Levels from Maths, Chemistry and Physics (or equivalent) with 3 years relevant laboratory experience OR hold a relevant science degree.

Knowledge of UKAS testing standards

Desirable

Knowledge of risk assessments 

Knowledge of microbial analysis

Experience

At least 3 years’ experience in a laboratory environment – this can be within an academic or commercial environment

Experience in Tests Methods and Nutritional Analysis 

Experience in data analysis and presentation 

Experience in the use of LIMS

Competent in the use of Windows based computer packages 

Desirable

Experience in a continuous improvement environment

Experience of laboratory proficiency schemes

Experience of statistical approach method validation

Project management experience

Circumstances

A flexible approach to work is required

This role will require moving sample boxes of @ 20 kgs

Closing date: 13th May

To be considered for this role please upload a current copy of your CV by clicking on the APPLY button below.