Overview
Cheshire Scientific is a UKAS-accredited analytical laboratory committed to delivering high-quality testing services, technical excellence, and exceptional customer support. Our chemistry department has grown significantly over the past two years, with turnover increasing by more than 50%, creating an exciting opportunity for further development. We are looking to strengthen the team with an experienced and motivated Chemistry Laboratory Manager who will help support the continued growth of our chemistry services. The role offers the chance to work in a technically strong environment, contribute to ongoing improvement, and play an important part in shaping the future of the department. Reporting to the Board, the successful candidate will work closely with senior leadership and receive ongoing support as they settle into the role.
Key Responsibilities
· Oversee the day-to-day running of the chemistry laboratory and the progression of samples through to reporting.
· Lead, train and develop chemistry staff, including health and safety training and signing off on training goals.
· Authorise chemistry reporting and ensure the ongoing technical compliance of instrumentation.
· Develop and validate chemistry methods, and prepare and maintain standard solutions.
· Operate, maintain and calibrate the laboratory’s ICP machine, and oversee the preparation and analysis of samples by ICP.
· Manage batch-to-batch controls to ensure the consistency and quality of results.
· Take responsibility for stock control and supplier relations, including purchase-order forecasting and the ordering of supplies,
· Arrange instrument servicing, recommissioning and service-interval record keeping.
· Manage safety protocols, including the storage and handling of acids, and maintain material and hazard data sheets.
· Monitor the laboratory environment, including safety-shower checks (temperature, flow and Legionella) and associated records.
· Be responsible for daily internal intermediate checks on equipment and escalate non conformances.
· Arrange waste disposal and ensure record keeping is accurate and audit-ready.
· Provide cover across other chemistry roles during staffing shortages.
Qualifications & Skills
· Hands-on experience of operating an ICP machine.
· A degree (or equivalent) in chemistry or a related scientific discipline.
· A minimum of three years’ experience in an analytical chemistry laboratory, including hands-on instrumental analysis.
· Previous supervisory or laboratory-management experience would be preferable, though we also welcome applications from experienced laboratory technicians ready to take the next step.
· Sound understanding of laboratory quality systems.
· Strong knowledge of laboratory health and safety, including the safe handling and storage of acids and other hazardous materials.
· Excellent organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage competing priorities.
· Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to train and develop a team.
· Confident user of laboratory and office software.
How to Apply
Please submit your CV and a cover letter to [[email protected]] with the subject line “Chemistry Laboratory Manager Application – [Your Name]”.
Pay: £27,500.00-£40,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
