At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a microbiology team, ensuring high-quality testing and operational efficiency.
- Company: Join ALS, a global leader in scientific testing and data-driven insights.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, annual leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to making a positive difference.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced lab while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Strong microbiology background and proven leadership experience required.
The predicted salary is between 29366 - 31366 € per year.
At ALS, we encourage you to dream big. When you join us, you’ll be part of a global team harnessing the power of scientific testing and data-driven insights to build a healthier future.
We are looking for an experienced and motivated Team Leader - Microbiology to join our laboratory team in Sittingbourne. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with strong microbiology expertise and proven leadership skills to play a key role in delivering high-quality analytical services within a fast-paced laboratory environment.
As Team Leader, you will be responsible for organising and overseeing daily laboratory operations, ensuring testing is completed accurately, safely and within client turnaround times. You will support the development of your team, drive continuous improvement initiatives and help maintain the highest standards of quality, compliance and customer service.
Role
- Days Per Week: 4 on 4 off (9am to 9pm)
- Contract: Permanent and Full Time
- Annual Salary Range: £29,366 plus £2000 Location Allowance
The Day to Day
- Organise and manage daily team workloads to ensure business targets and turnaround times are achieved
- Monitor laboratory workflows and systems to ensure testing is completed efficiently and within client timeframes
- Oversee sample registration and ensure appropriate tests, methods, media, and dilutions are selected
- Coordinate routine Quality Management activities and ensure completion within scheduled deadlines
- Manage retests and additional testing on retained samples within required timescales
- Communicate delays, issues, or risks impacting turnaround times to management and clients where necessary
- Support the laboratory management team with result approvals and out-of-specification reporting
- Identify opportunities for process improvements, operational efficiencies, and new equipment implementation
- Monitor attendance, timekeeping, training, and team performance, escalating concerns where appropriate
- Maintain training records and ensure team competency supports operational flexibility and resource coverage
- Deliver training, coaching, and ongoing support to team members
- Ensure all laboratory activities comply with HSE, Quality, Regulatory, Accreditation, and internal company standards
- Promote a positive safety culture by reporting incidents, near misses, and unsafe practices, while supporting continuous safety improvement initiatives
The Essentials
- Previous laboratory experience within a microbiology environment
- Strong theoretical and practical understanding of microbiological analysis, methodologies, and procedures
- Excellent organisational and workload prioritisation skills
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- High level of accuracy and attention to detail
- Ability to work independently and use initiative in a fast-paced environment
- Competent in Microsoft Office applications and Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)
- Minimum of 5 GCSEs (or equivalent), including Science, English, and Mathematics
- Understanding of ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 17025:2017 quality standards and the importance of maintaining high-quality analytical data
- Strong awareness of laboratory health and safety requirements, including PPE compliance and safe working practices
- Commitment to continuous learning, professional development, and supporting team development
Our Benefits Include:
- Annual Leave commencing at 20 days (rising to 24)
- Ability to Buy annual leave.
- Enhanced Company Sick Pay Scheme
- Salary Progression Scheme based on technical and behavioural competencies.
- ‘Celebrating Success’ Recognition Awards
- Perkbox membership providing access to discount vouchers and wellness hub.
- Learning/study support
- Group Personal Pension Plan
- Car Parking on-site
Working at ALS
The ALS team is a diverse and dedicated community united by our passion to make a difference in the world. Our values are important to us, and shape how we work, how we treat each other and how we recognise excellence. At ALS, you’ll be supported to develop new skills and reach your full potential. We invest in our people with programs and opportunities that help you build a diverse career with us. We want everyone to have a safe, flexible and rewarding career that makes a positive impact on our people, the planet and our communities.
Everyone Matters
ALS is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment where the strengths and perspectives of each employee are both recognised and valued. ALS also welcomes applications from people with all levels of ability. Reasonable adjustments to support candidates throughout the recruitment process are available upon request.
Eligibility
To be eligible to work at ALS you must be a Citizen or Permanent Resident of the country you are applying for, or either hold or be able to obtain, a valid working visa.
How to apply
Please apply on-line and provide a resume & cover letter that best demonstrate your motivation and ability to meet the requirements of this role.
Microbiology Team Leader in Sittingbourne employer: ALS Global
At ALS, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment in Sittingbourne. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through our comprehensive training programs, competitive benefits, and recognition initiatives, ensuring that every team member can thrive and contribute to our mission of building a healthier future. Join us to be part of a diverse community that values excellence and fosters continuous improvement in a fast-paced laboratory setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Microbiology Team Leader in Sittingbourne
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the microbiology field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a job opening at ALS or elsewhere.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your microbiology knowledge and leadership skills. Think of examples from your past experiences that showcase your ability to manage teams and improve processes. We want to see how you can bring value to our lab!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere—apply through our website! It shows you're genuinely interested in joining ALS and helps us keep track of your application. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in making a lasting impression. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in the hiring manager's mind.
We think you need these skills to ace Microbiology Team Leader in Sittingbourne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Microbiology Skills:Make sure to highlight your microbiology expertise in your CV and cover letter. We want to see how your experience aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your knowledge of methodologies and procedures!
Tailor Your Application:Take a moment to customise your CV and cover letter for this specific role. Use keywords from the job description to demonstrate that you understand what we’re looking for and how you fit into our team.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured documents that are easy to read, so make sure your key points stand out and are easy to find.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at ALS!
How to prepare for a job interview at ALS Global
✨Know Your Microbiology Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your microbiological analysis and methodologies. Be prepared to discuss specific techniques you've used in the lab and how they relate to the role. This will show your expertise and confidence in the subject matter.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Team Leader, you'll need to showcase your leadership abilities. Think of examples where you've successfully managed a team or improved processes. Be ready to explain how you motivate and develop your team members to achieve their best.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Quality Standards
Understanding ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 17025:2017 is crucial for this role. Prepare to discuss how you’ve ensured compliance with these standards in previous positions. This will highlight your commitment to maintaining high-quality analytical data.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Show your interest in the company by preparing thoughtful questions. Ask about their continuous improvement initiatives or how they support team development. This not only demonstrates your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the company aligns with your values.
