Pathogens Team Leader

Pathogens Team Leader

Full-Time 29366 - 29366 ÂŁ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a team in pathogen testing and microbiological investigations to ensure quality results.
  • Company: Join ALS, a global leader in scientific testing dedicated to building a healthier future.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, annual leave, sick pay, and learning support.
  • Other info: Flexible working hours with opportunities for career growth and recognition.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in health and safety while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
  • Qualifications: GCSEs in Science, English, and Maths; experience in microbiology and pathogen testing required.

The predicted salary is between 29366 - 29366 ÂŁ 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.

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.

About the Position

  • Days Per Week: 4 on 4 off (9am to 9pm)
  • Basis: Permanent, Full Time
  • Annual Salary: ÂŁ29,366 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

    We’re all about people – so show us who you are and why you're passionate about working with us by submitting your resume, and we’ll keep it on file for future opportunities.

    Pathogens Team Leader employer: Alsglobal

    At ALS, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment where every team member is valued. With a strong commitment to employee development, we provide numerous opportunities for growth and skill enhancement, alongside competitive benefits such as enhanced sick pay and a salary progression scheme. Our flexible working arrangements and focus on health and safety ensure that you can thrive both personally and professionally while making a meaningful impact in the field of scientific testing.
    A

    Contact Detail:

    Alsglobal Recruiting Team

    StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

    We think this is how you could land Pathogens Team Leader

    ✨Tip Number 1

    Get to know the company culture! Before your interview, dive into ALS's values and mission. This way, you can show how your passion aligns with their goals, making you a standout candidate.

    ✨Tip Number 2

    Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions related to microbiology and pathogen testing. The more comfortable you are discussing your experience, the more confident you'll come across.

    ✨Tip Number 3

    Network like a pro! Connect with current or former ALS employees on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips and maybe even put in a good word for you, which could give you an edge in the hiring process.

    ✨Tip Number 4

    Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It shows you're genuinely interested and keeps you fresh in their minds.

    We think you need these skills to ace Pathogens Team Leader

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

    Some tips for your application 🫡

    Show Your Passion: When you're writing your cover letter, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We want to see why you're excited about joining our team and how you can contribute to our mission of making a difference.

    Tailor Your Resume: Make sure your resume highlights your relevant experience in microbiology and pathogen testing. We love seeing specific examples of your skills and achievements that align with the job description!

    Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make it easy for us to see how you meet the essentials of 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 materials and ensures you’re considered for the position. We can’t wait to hear from you!

    How to prepare for a job interview at Alsglobal

    ✨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 methods. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but can apply it practically.

    ✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

    As a Pathogens Team Leader, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to manage and support a team. Prepare examples of how you've organised workloads, provided training, or handled team dynamics in previous roles. This will highlight your leadership capabilities and your commitment to fostering a positive work environment.

    ✨Emphasise Your Attention to Detail

    In a lab setting, accuracy is key. Be prepared to discuss specific instances where your attention to detail made a difference in your work. Whether it’s ensuring compliance with quality standards or troubleshooting issues, showing that you take pride in your work will resonate well with the interviewers.

    ✨Align with ALS Values

    Research ALS's values and culture before your interview. Think about how your personal values align with theirs, especially regarding inclusivity and making a positive impact. Sharing your passion for these values during the interview will help you connect with the team and demonstrate that you’re a good fit for their community.

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