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 perks like wellness support.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with opportunities for growth and continuous learning.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on 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 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 in Trowbridge employer: Als
At ALS, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that values diversity and fosters personal growth. As a Team Leader in our Food Laboratory, you will benefit from a structured salary progression scheme, comprehensive training opportunities, and a strong commitment to health and safety, all while contributing to meaningful scientific advancements in a collaborative environment. With flexible working hours and a range of employee benefits, including enhanced sick pay and wellness support, ALS is dedicated to helping you thrive both professionally and personally.
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 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! 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 microbiology.
We think you need these skills to ace Pathogens Team Leader in Trowbridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your microbiology expertise and leadership experience. Show us why you're passionate about the role and how you can contribute to our team at ALS.
Tailor Your CV:Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor it to match the job description. Emphasise your relevant skills, especially in microbiological techniques and quality assurance, to catch our eye.
Showcase Your Achievements:We love to see what you've accomplished! Include specific examples of your past work, particularly any improvements you've made in laboratory processes or team development. Numbers and results speak volumes!
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to apply through our website for the best chance of being noticed. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and get back to you quickly!
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 tests like Total Viable Count and biochemical confirmation stages. 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.
✨Emphasise Quality Assurance Knowledge
Since the role involves ensuring compliance with quality standards, be prepared to discuss your understanding of ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 17025:2017. Share any experiences where you’ve implemented quality management tasks or handled out-of-specification reports to showcase your attention to detail.
✨Prepare Questions About the Role
Interviews are a two-way street! Think of insightful questions about the team dynamics, ongoing projects, or the company’s approach to continuous improvement. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
