South West Metal Finishing is a leading provider of high-quality metal finishing and surface treatment services. We are committed to delivering exceptional customer service, operational excellence, and continuous improvement.
We are seeking a motivated and experienced Laboratory Senior Technician to join our Marsh Barton facility. This is an exciting opportunity for a technically skilled individual looking to take the next step in their career within a manufacturing laboratory environment.
As Laboratory Senior Technician, you will play a key role in ensuring our laboratory operations meet the highest standards of safety, quality, compliance, and efficiency. You will provide day-to-day leadership within the laboratory, support continuous improvement initiatives, and help develop a high-performing team.
About the Role
Reporting to the Laboratory Manager, you will oversee laboratory activities and support the management of laboratory personnel, ensuring all testing, analysis and compliance activities are completed accurately and efficiently.
This is a hands-on role where the majority of your time will be spent supporting laboratory operations, conducting analysis, solving technical challenges, coaching team members, and driving improvements.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and support the daily operation of the laboratory.
- Provide direction and guidance to Laboratory Technicians and Apprentices.
- Conduct chemical analysis and laboratory investigations.
- Monitor and trend analytical results to ensure process compliance.
- Ensure electroplating solutions remain compliant and fit for purpose.
- Oversee environmental and effluent testing activities.
- Promote and maintain safe working practices throughout the laboratory.
- Support compliance with company procedures, legislation, industry standards, and regulatory requirements.
- Assist with performance management and problem-solving activities.
- Establish and maintain laboratory standards, procedures, and best practices.
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives to enhance quality, efficiency, and performance.
- Support audits and liaise with external agencies and stakeholders where required.
- Contribute to team meetings and production support activities.
About You
We are looking for an enthusiastic individual with strong technical knowledge and a proactive approach to leadership and continuous improvement.
Essential Skills & Experience
- Experience working within a laboratory environment.
- Knowledge of chemical laboratory testing techniques.
- Strong organisational and planning skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
- Good numeracy and literacy skills.
- Ability to prioritise workload and solve problems effectively.
- Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office applications.
- Ability to work collaboratively and lead by example.
- A continuous improvement mindset with a focus on standardisation and lean practices.
Desirable Skills & Experience
- Previous supervisory or team leadership experience.
- Experience within a manufacturing or production-based laboratory.
- Experience working within an electroplating or surface engineering environment.
- Relevant laboratory, chemistry, scientific, or engineering qualifications.
- Knowledge of environmental compliance and testing requirements.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary reflecting your skills, experience, and contribution.
- Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
- Ongoing training and support.
- A collaborative and supportive working environment.
- The opportunity to influence and improve laboratory operations.
- Company benefits package.
Benefits:
- Company events
- Cycle to work scheme
- On-site parking
- Referral programme
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Exeter EX2 8TJ: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Work Location: In person
