About Holiferm
Holiferm is leading a major shift in the $42 billion surfactant market - moving the industry away from fossil fuel–based chemicals and towards biodegradable, sustainable biosurfactants. Our patented fermentation and gravity separation technology enables commercially scalable, competitively priced biosurfactants that make real sustainability possible.
And while Holiferm may not be a household name you recognise, the brands we supply certainly are - from well-known global names to fast growing, future focused innovators. As demand for sustainable ingredients accelerates, we’re scaling fast, expanding our technology, and shaping the industry from the inside out. It’s an exciting time to join us and help drive the next wave of growth.
When you join us, you’ll be part of a dynamic, collaborative, and inclusive environment - whether you're in our R&D lab in Manchester or our commercial plant in Wallasey. You’ll have the autonomy, support and platform to innovate, grow, and make a real impact.
The Opportunity
We’re looking for a Quality Control Technician to support the delivery of accurate, timely and reliable QC testing at Holiferm’s commercial plant in Wallasey.
This is a hands-on laboratory role for someone who enjoys working methodically, taking ownership of testing activity, and contributing to continuous improvement. You’ll perform QC testing in line with current methods, support sampling and data reporting, and work closely with plant, technical and operations colleagues to help deliver technical objectives.
You’ll be responsible for:
- Performing all QC testing according to current methods
- Testing and maintaining daily fermentation and downstream samples
- Filling and shipping customer samples
- Maintaining and supporting the upkeep of QC and laboratory SOPs
- Recording, analysing, reporting data, and presenting results accurately and in a timely manner
- Generating, analysing and interpreting data from a range of test methods, providing findings to senior staff
- Working closely with plant, technical and production/operations teams to collect data that supports technical objectives
- Investigating product failures and supporting downstream process improvement testing
- Monitoring laboratory supplies to ensure materials are ordered on time and testing can be completed
- Calculating conditioning of Sophorolipid for finished products
- Collecting and clearly labelling production and raw material samples
- Ensuring laboratory equipment calibration is kept up to date
- Maintaining housekeeping standards for a clean and safe workplace
You’ll be based at Ocean Park in Wallasey. This is on on-site role, with standard hours of 40 hours per week usually worked between 08:00 and 18:00, Monday to Friday.
About You
You’re a motivated, detail-focused individual with a positive attitude and a practical approach to getting things done. You communicate clearly, manage competing priorities effectively, and bring professionalism, confidence, flexibility and self-motivation to your work.
Essential:
- A Level or equivalent qualification, training or experience in a scientific subject, such as biology, chemistry or physics
- Experience using advanced analytical techniques, ideally including HPLC, or a strong foundation that would enable you to develop these skills quickly
- Experience in QC and analytical techniques, such as titrations and solvent extractions
- Capability and desire to develop test methods and support continuous improvement
- A right-first-time attitude, with a proactive approach to completing work accurately and efficiently
- Ability to work independently while knowing when to ask for support, and to contribute effectively as part of a team
- A logical, scientific approach to challenges and development activities
Desirable:
- Degree or equivalent knowledge in a scientific subject
- Experience of downstream separation processes at laboratory scale, and ideally at pilot or industrial scale
- Specific knowledge of analytical techniques applied to biosurfactants
- Knowledge of surfactant behaviour and formulation, particularly phase behaviour
- Experience of plant scale equipment and large-scale chemical manufacturing
How You’ll Be Rewarded
We believe great work should feel genuinely rewarding - not just in what you do every day, but in how you’re supported. Here’s what you can look forward to:
- A competitive salary (based on experience).
- A strong benefits package that has your back - including a 7.5% employer pension contribution, income protection, life insurance (4x Salary) and comprehensive health, dental and mental health support.
- Share options, because we want you to grow with us as we scale.
- Flexible and hybrid working to help you balance life inside and outside of work.
- Access to an electric & plug‑in hybrid car scheme and a company reward/discount platform.
- Regular team events and socials (informal, inclusive, no pressure)
- Plus a few extra perks that make day-to-day life that little bit easier.
And It’s Not Just Words - Our Culture Really Works This Way
We know lots of companies say they value openness, wellbeing and teamwork - but at Holiferm, it’s genuinely how we operate every day. People here look out for each other, share knowledge freely, and celebrate wins together. Leaders are approachable, feedback is welcomed, and you’ll always have the support you need to do your best work.
Our culture isn’t a poster on a wall - it’s how we show up for each other, how we solve problems, and how we make sure everyone feels included, respected and able to thrive.
Not sure you tick every box? No worries.
We know job adverts can sometimes make great people doubt themselves. If this role sounds exciting and you meet many, but not all, of the criteria, we’d still love to hear from you. You might be exactly who we’re looking for.
Diversity, Inclusion & Fair Opportunities
Holiferm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to an inclusive, respectful and equitable workplace.
If you need any adjustments or support during the application process or at interview, please let us know. We want you to feel comfortable, supported and able to show us your best.
