Pathogens Team Leader in Trowbridge

Pathogens Team Leader in Trowbridge

Trowbridge Full-Time 29366 - 29366 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
ALS Global

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a dynamic lab team in pathogen testing and microbiological investigations.
  • Company: Join ALS, a global leader in scientific testing for a healthier future.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, annual leave, and perks like wellness support.
  • Other info: Inclusive workplace with opportunities for growth and continuous learning.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in food safety while developing your leadership skills.
  • Qualifications: Experience in microbiology and strong organisational skills required.

The predicted salary is between 29366 - 29366 £ 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.

Are you an experienced laboratory professional ready to take the next step into leadership? We are looking for a motivated and organised Team Leader – Pathogen for our Food Laboratory to guide and support a busy laboratory team, ensuring high‑quality microbiological and pathogen testing results are delivered safely, accurately and on time. This role is ideal for someone with strong microbiology expertise, a commitment to quality, and a passion for developing people and laboratory processes within a regulated environment.

About the Position

  • Days Per Week: 4 on 4 off (9am to 9pm)
  • Basis: Permanent, Full Time
  • Annual Salary: £29,366 per annum

The Day to Day

  • Lead and support laboratory activities relating to pathogen testing and microbiological investigations.
  • Organise and manage team workloads to ensure business targets and client deadlines are achieved.
  • Perform and oversee microbiological testing with demonstrated competency in:
  • Total Viable Count (TVC)
  • Bacillus
  • Coagulase Positive Staphylococci
  • Clostridium
  • Listeria
  • Yeasts and Moulds
  • Monitor laboratory systems to ensure all tests and processes are completed within agreed turnaround times.
  • Oversee registration review for all samples, ensuring appropriate tests, methods, media and dilutions are selected, providing guidance where required.
  • Operate, clean, maintain and interpret data from laboratory equipment, including ELISA and MALDI‑TOF, in line with procedures and manufacturer guidance.
  • Perform biochemical confirmation stages with demonstrated competency for:
    • Listeria
    • Salmonella
    • Staphylococcus aureus
  • Carry out investigative microbiology using purification and isolation techniques.
  • Perform biochemical testing, including API identification methods, in accordance with validated procedures.
  • Handle, prepare and dilute cultures in line with laboratory procedures and quality standards.
  • Organise and monitor routine Quality Management (QM) tasks.
  • Ensure retests or additional testing on retained samples are completed within required timeframes.
  • Support laboratory management with results approval and issuing out‑of‑specification reports.
  • Provide technical guidance, training and support to laboratory team members to maintain competence and flexibility.
  • Assist with troubleshooting, investigations and continuous improvement initiatives within the laboratory.
  • Monitor timekeeping, absence and behaviour within the team, escalating concerns where necessary.
  • Ensure all work complies with HSE, Quality, Regulatory and Accreditation requirements, including internal ALS policies and procedures.
  • Promote a strong health and safety culture, reporting incidents and near misses and addressing unsafe practices promptly.
  • The Essentials

    • 5 GCSEs (or equivalent) including Science, English and Mathematics.
    • Proven experience working within a microbiology and/or pathogen laboratory environment.
    • Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of microbiological techniques and pathogen testing methodologies.
    • Demonstrated competency in biochemical confirmation and investigative microbiology.
    • Experience using ELISA, MALDI‑TOF, and biochemical identification methods.
    • Proven organisational skills with the ability to prioritise workload and work on your own initiative.
    • High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
    • Confident written and verbal communication skills.
    • Proficient user of Microsoft Office and Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).
    • Sound understanding of Quality Assurance, with experience working to ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 17025:2017 standards.
    • Demonstrated commitment to continual learning and the development of both self and team.
    • Clear understanding of occupational health and safety requirements, including PPE compliance and incident reporting.
    • Knowledge of food microbiology practices is desirable.

    Our Benefits Include

    • Annual Leave commencing at 20 days
    • Ability to buy additional annual leave
    • Enhanced Company Sick Pay Scheme
    • Salary Progression Scheme based on technical and behavioural competencies
    • Value Awards recognition scheme
    • Perkbox membership providing access to discount vouchers and wellbeing hub
    • Learning and study support
    • Group Personal Pension Plan
    • On‑site car parking

    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.

    Pathogens Team Leader in Trowbridge employer: ALS Global

    At ALS, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment where your contributions truly matter. As a Pathogens Team Leader in our Food Laboratory, you'll benefit from a strong commitment to employee development, competitive salary progression, and a range of perks including enhanced sick pay and a comprehensive pension plan. Join us in a role that not only fosters your professional growth but also allows you to make a meaningful impact on public health and safety.
    ALS Global

    Contact Detail:

    ALS Global Recruiting Team

    StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

    We think this is how you could land Pathogens Team Leader in Trowbridge

    ✨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 a Team Leader role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.

    ✨Tip Number 2

    Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your microbiological techniques and pathogen testing methodologies. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with ELISA and MALDI-TOF, as well as how you've led teams in the past. Confidence is key!

    ✨Tip Number 3

    Showcase your leadership skills! Think of examples where you've developed team members or improved laboratory processes. This will demonstrate your commitment to quality and your passion for developing others, which is exactly what ALS is looking for.

    ✨Tip Number 4

    Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining the ALS team and making a difference in the world of scientific testing.

    We think you need these skills to ace Pathogens Team Leader in Trowbridge

    Microbiology Expertise
    Pathogen Testing Methodologies
    Biochemical Confirmation Techniques
    Investigative Microbiology
    ELISA Operation
    MALDI-TOF Interpretation
    Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)
    Quality Assurance Knowledge
    ISO 9001:2015 Standards
    ISO 17025:2017 Standards
    Organisational Skills
    Attention to Detail
    Communication Skills
    Health and Safety Compliance
    Team Leadership

    Some tips for your application 🫡

    Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for microbiology and leadership shine through. We want to see that you're not just qualified, but genuinely excited about the role and what you can bring to our team.

    Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in pathogen testing and laboratory management. Use keywords from the job description to show us you understand what we're looking for.

    Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and focus on your key achievements and skills that relate directly to the Pathogens Team Leader role.

    Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity with ALS.

    How to prepare for a job interview at ALS Global

    ✨Know Your Microbiology Inside Out

    Make sure you brush up on your microbiological techniques and pathogen testing methodologies. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with specific tests like Total Viable Count and biochemical confirmation methods. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but can also apply it practically.

    ✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

    As a Team Leader, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to guide and support a team. Prepare examples of how you've previously managed workloads, trained team members, or improved laboratory processes. Highlighting your commitment to developing people will resonate well with the interviewers.

    ✨Familiarise Yourself with Quality Standards

    Since this role involves compliance with ISO standards and quality management, make sure you understand these frameworks. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve ensured quality in past roles and how you would maintain high standards in the lab at ALS.

    ✨Prepare Questions About the Role

    Interviews are a two-way street! Think of insightful questions about the team dynamics, challenges in the lab, or opportunities for professional development. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.

    Pathogens Team Leader in Trowbridge
    ALS Global
    Location: Trowbridge

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