Sample Receiving Technician in Sittingbourne

Location: 190 Carver Drive, Kent Science Park, Sittingbourne, ME98NP

Salary: Starting salary: £13 per hour, or £25,350 per annum

Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

About the Role

Are you looking to build a career in the life sciences and gain hands-on experience within a growing international biotechnology company? AbBaltis is looking for a Sample Receiving Technician to join our Laboratory team. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is technically minded, organised, curious and eager to learn, who wants to develop their laboratory skills while making a real contribution to the work we do.

You will play an important role in the receipt, processing, storage and preparation of human plasma and serum samples, helping us maintain the high standards of quality, accuracy and traceability that our customers depend on. This role is not simply about completing day-to-day laboratory tasks. We are looking for someone who wants to learn, take ownership, contribute ideas and grow with the business.

As AbBaltis continues to expand, there will be opportunities for the right individual to take on additional responsibilities and progress into more senior laboratory, technical, quality, or other roles within the business, depending on their strengths, interests and development. We actively believe in promoting from within and investing in our people through training, apprenticeships, professional development and further education.

If you are ambitious, enjoy learning and want to build a career rather than simply take a job, this could be an excellent opportunity for you.

Department: Laboratory

Reports to: Laboratory Shipping Supervisor

Main Responsibilities and Duties

• Laboratory & Sample Processing

Receive, process and prepare human plasma and serum materials. Aliquot plasma and serum samples accurately and in accordance with relevant procedures. Use standard laboratory equipment, including centrifuges, pipettes, autoclaves and biosafety cabinets. Handle human-source materials safely and responsibly, following all relevant PPE, biosafety and laboratory procedures. Label plasma and serum vials accurately and maintain full sample traceability. Maintain accurate stock records and update relevant databases and spreadsheets. Return stock to the appropriate laboratory freezers and ensure materials are stored correctly. Complete daily scanning and filing of laboratory paperwork and ensure documentation is shared with the relevant teams. Pack and prepare biological samples for domestic and international shipment in accordance with applicable requirements, including IATA regulations.

• Laboratory Equipment & Operations

As your knowledge and experience develop, you will have the opportunity to become involved in a wider range of laboratory activities, including: Preparing laboratory buffers and solutions as required. Pipetting and handling human plasma and serum specimens. Supporting the maintenance and organisation of laboratory equipment. Maintaining equipment schedules and ensuring testing, servicing and calibration requirements are appropriately recorded and followed. Supporting the introduction and implementation of new laboratory methods. Contributing to the development of written Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Identifying opportunities to improve laboratory processes, methods and efficiency. We encourage our team to ask questions, challenge existing processes and look for better ways of working. Your ideas and development will be an important part of your progression at AbBaltis.

• Health, Safety & Compliance

Follow all laboratory Health & Safety policies, procedures and risk assessments. Ensure appropriate PPE is worn and safety procedures are followed when working with human-source materials. Maintain high standards of laboratory housekeeping and organisation. Report equipment issues, incidents, risks or concerns promptly. Work in accordance with company procedures and applicable regulatory and quality requirements.

• Administrative & Team Support

Complete laboratory records and documentation accurately and within required timescales. Use Excel and other IT systems to maintain accurate records and support laboratory operations. Carry out general administrative duties associated with the laboratory. Work collaboratively with colleagues across Laboratory, Operations and other departments. Support colleagues during busy periods and contribute to achieving team targets and deadlines.

Education

Bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific discipline preferred. Candidates with relevant A Levels or equivalent scientific qualifications will also be considered.

Experience

Previous laboratory experience is required, ideally around one year of industry or relevant laboratory experience. Experience handling biological samples would be advantageous.

Technical Knowledge

Knowledge of immunology and an understanding of In Vitro Diagnostic (IVD) methods is desirable. Good understanding of laboratory procedures, safety and sample handling.

IT & Data Skills

Intermediate to advanced Excel skills. Strong IT skills and confidence learning new systems. Good numeracy and literacy skills. High level of accuracy when recording and managing data.

Communication

Strong written and verbal communication skills. Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with colleagues across different teams. A collaborative approach to working with others.

Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills

Ability to analyse information and identify problems. Strong attention to detail. A practical and solutions-focused approach to challenges.

Mindset & Behaviours

Curious and willing to learn new skills. Positive, flexible and adaptable approach. Self-motivated and target-driven. Takes ownership and responsibility for their work. Able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team. Comfortable working in a fast-paced and growing environment.

Organisation & Project Skills

Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines. Ability to organise work effectively and maintain accurate records. Willingness to take on new responsibilities as the business and role develop.

About AbBaltis

AbBaltis is a dynamic and forward-thinking life science company experiencing rapid growth within the IVD and biotechnology industries. We specialise in the global distribution of disease-state human plasma and serum, supporting customers around the world in medical research, diagnostics and biotechnology. Our work contributes to the development and advancement of products and technologies that can ultimately make a difference to healthcare and scientific research. We are a team of ambitious, passionate and highly capable individuals who care about what we do and take pride in delivering high-quality work. We value integrity, collaboration, accountability, continuous learning and innovation.

As we continue to grow internationally, we are looking for people who want to grow alongside us.

Putting People First

At AbBaltis, employee development is a key part of our culture. We want our employees to build meaningful careers with us, not simply perform a role. We therefore invest in training and development and actively look for opportunities to support employees in achieving their professional goals. This can include: Professional training and development programmes, Opportunities to take on new responsibilities, Internal progression and promotions, Exposure to different areas of the business, Opportunities to work on projects and continuous improvement initiatives.

We believe that different backgrounds, experiences, perspectives and ways of thinking make our business stronger. AbBaltis is proud to be an international and diverse organisation, with colleagues working across different countries and cultures. We are committed to creating an environment where people feel valued, respected, included and able to contribute their ideas. We understand that people perform at their best when they are supported both professionally and personally. Employee wellbeing is therefore an important part of our culture. We aim to create a positive working environment through employee benefits, flexible approaches where appropriate, team-building activities, wellbeing initiatives and ongoing support. We want AbBaltis to be a place where people can learn, contribute, progress and enjoy being part of the team.

Why Join AbBaltis?

Joining AbBaltis means becoming part of a growing life science company where your contribution can genuinely make a difference. You will have the opportunity to: Gain practical experience working with biological samples and laboratory equipment. Build your career. Develop your skills and have the opportunity to progress into different roles as you grow. Continue learning. Access training, development opportunities and support for further education. Make an impact. Contribute ideas and help us improve the way we work. Work with great people. Join a collaborative, international team that values its people. Grow with AbBaltis. As our company expands, so do the opportunities available to our employees.

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

Comprehensive benefits package available after 3 months of service. Paid confidential therapy and mental wellbeing support sessions. Healthcare coverage for employees and one nominated family member (UK-based or local equivalent). Group Life Assurance for added financial security. £100 annual book allowance to support learning and development. Extra paid day off on your birthday. Two additional paid leave days each year: Duvet Day – for rest and recharge. Admin Day – for personal errands and appointments. Additional annual leave day awarded after 2 years of service. Five extra paid sick days per year after 2 years of service.