At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team in a fast-paced lab, ensuring high standards in scientific analysis.
- Company: Join ALS, a global leader in scientific testing and data-driven insights.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25+ days of annual leave, enhanced sick pay, and a salary progression scheme.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with opportunities for growth and recognition.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in food life science while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in Science and experience in a high-throughput lab required.
The predicted salary is between 31631 - 31631 € 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.
The Role
Do you thrive in a fast‑paced laboratory environment? Are you passionate about leading teams and driving high standards in scientific analysis? We’re looking for a proactive and inspirational Section Head to join our committed food life science laboratory. As a Section Head, you’ll play a pivotal role in coordinating a skilled team of analysts to deliver exceptional results. You'll ensure laboratory processes run smoothly, resourcing is on point, and quality remains our top priority.
About The Position
- Shift: Monday to Friday 09:00 – 17:30
- Salary: £31,631
- Location: Chatteris
- Contract: Full-Time and Permanent
The day to day
- Leading and supporting the team to understand and carry out required analysis.
- Monitoring resourcing (staff, equipment, consumables) and working with the manager to address shortfalls.
- Acting as the key contact for clients, keeping them updated and resolving queries.
- Driving team performance through regular review, coaching, and compliance checks.
- Verifying and approving test results and acting as certificate signatory.
- Contributing to recruitment, performance reviews, and staff motivation.
The Essentials
- A degree (or equivalent experience) in a Science.
- Proven experience in a high‑throughput lab.
- Strong understanding of analytical techniques.
- Previous supervisory experience in a lab setting.
- Familiarity with LIMS and Microsoft Office applications.
- A solid grasp of HR practices within a team environment.
- The ability to stay calm under pressure and always maintain professionalism.
Our benefits include:
- Annual Leave commencing at 25 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
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.
Section Head employer: Als
At ALS, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration in our Chatteris food life science laboratory. With generous benefits such as 25 days of annual leave, a salary progression scheme, and a commitment to employee growth through learning support, we empower our team to thrive while making a meaningful impact on public health. Join us to be part of a diverse and inclusive environment where your contributions are valued and celebrated.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Section Head
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching ALS and understanding their values and mission. We want to see that you’re genuinely interested in being part of our team. Practice common interview questions and think about how your experience aligns with the role of Section Head.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! As a Section Head, you’ll need to inspire and manage a team. Be ready to share examples of how you’ve successfully led teams in the past and how you can bring that experience to our food life science laboratory.
✨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, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Section Head
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We want to see how excited you are about leading teams and driving high standards in scientific analysis. Share your experiences that reflect this passion.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Section Head position. Highlight your relevant experience in high-throughput labs and any supervisory roles you've held. We love seeing how your background aligns with what we’re looking for!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to describe your skills and experiences. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do – just follow the prompts!
How to prepare for a job interview at Als
✨Know Your Science
Make sure you brush up on your scientific knowledge, especially analytical techniques relevant to the role. Be prepared to discuss your experience in high-throughput labs and how you've applied your skills in real-world scenarios.
✨Show Leadership Skills
As a Section Head, you'll be leading a team, so highlight your previous supervisory experience. Share examples of how you've motivated teams, handled conflicts, or improved performance in a lab setting.
✨Understand the Company Culture
Familiarise yourself with ALS's commitment to inclusivity and teamwork. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to this culture and support your colleagues, as well as how you handle pressure while maintaining professionalism.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, laboratory processes, and how success is measured in the role. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
