At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic lab team in pathogen testing and microbiological investigations.
- 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: Inclusive workplace with a commitment to personal growth and safety.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on food safety while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Strong microbiology background and proven lab experience 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 and 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 employer: Als
At ALS, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment where your contributions truly matter. As a Team Leader in our Food Laboratory, you'll benefit from a strong focus on professional development, competitive salary progression, and a comprehensive benefits package, all while working alongside a passionate team dedicated to making a positive impact on public health. Our commitment to quality and safety, combined with flexible working arrangements and a culture that values diversity, makes ALS an ideal place for those looking to grow their careers in microbiology and pathogen testing.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Pathogens Team Leader
✨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 knowledge. Be ready to discuss your 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! When chatting with potential employers, highlight your ability to organise team workloads and ensure high-quality results. Share examples of how you've developed team members and improved laboratory processes.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace Pathogens Team Leader
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 how your passion aligns with our mission at ALS to build a healthier future.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in microbiology and pathogen testing. Use keywords from the job description to show that you’re the perfect fit for the Team Leader role.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your skills and experiences are easy to read and understand. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the 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 the position. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Als
✨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 Total Viable Count, Listeria, and other pathogens mentioned in the job description. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but can apply it practically.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Team Leader, you'll need to showcase your ability to lead 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 the role involves ensuring compliance with ISO standards and quality assurance, be prepared to discuss your understanding of these regulations. Bring examples of how you've maintained quality in past roles, and be ready to talk about any experience you have with Quality Management tasks.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
The interviewers will want to know how you handle challenges in the lab. Think of specific instances where you’ve troubleshot issues or implemented continuous improvement initiatives. Being able to articulate your thought process in these situations will demonstrate your analytical skills and proactive approach.
