Section Head in Trowbridge

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 seeking a dedicated Section Head to oversee laboratory operations, ensuring the delivery of high-quality analytical results while maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and customer service. Reporting to the Laboratory Manager, you will lead a team of Laboratory Technicians, Support Services Technicians, Media Technicians and Microbiologists, whilst supervising Team Leaders across the department. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated leader who thrives in a fast-paced laboratory environment and is committed to operational excellence, continuous improvement and team development.

About the Role

• Contract: Full Time and Permanent
• Shift Pattern: 4 days on 4 days off (9am - 9pm)
• Annual Salary: £32,896
• Hiring Manager: Anna Momot

The Day to Day

• Organise and manage laboratory teams to ensure all samples are analysed accurately, efficiently and within agreed turnaround times.
• Monitor workloads, staffing levels, equipment and consumable resources, escalating any concerns to the Laboratory Manager to ensure analysis demands can be met.
• Ensure all quality, safety and compliance procedures are consistently followed and that all required documentation is completed accurately.
• Verify customer requirements prior to testing and ensure all samples are suitable for analysis before work commences.
• Manage day-to-day customer communications relating to sample analysis, providing updates on delays, queries and turnaround expectations where required.
• Oversee the training and development of team members, ensuring staff are competent in their assigned duties and keeping the Laboratory Manager informed of progress and performance.
• Monitor analytical work and results to ensure compliance with all Health & Safety, Quality, Regulatory and Accreditation requirements, as well as internal policies and procedures.
• Ensure analytical results are calculated, checked and entered into LIMS promptly, providing support in resolving any result-related queries.
• Implement amendments to specifications and dilution standing data in response to customer requests or sample reviews.
• Support recruitment activities, performance management, staff motivation and disciplinary processes.
• Work closely with the Laboratory Manager to identify and address unsafe practices and promote a positive safety culture throughout the laboratory.

The Essentials

• Degree qualified in a biological science discipline and/or significant experience working within a high-throughput laboratory environment.
• Strong technical knowledge and practical experience of food microbiology analysis across a range of methodologies and procedures.
• Proven experience of leading, motivating and developing laboratory teams.
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to prioritise workloads and work effectively on your own initiative.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to provide clear instructions and build effective relationships with colleagues and customers.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.
• Sound understanding of laboratory quality systems and accreditation requirements.
• Commitment to maintaining analytical standards in line with ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 17025:2017 requirements.
• Strong understanding of health and safety practices, including PPE requirements, incident reporting and continuous improvement of workplace safety.
• Ability to maintain high levels of accuracy and attention to detail within a fast-paced operational environment.

Our Benefits Include:

• Annual Leave commencing at 23 days (rising to 30) plus 8 public holidays (pro rata for part time)
• 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.