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- Tasks: Lead day-to-day lab operations and support critical scientific research.
- Company: Avantor, a global leader in life-changing science.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and a diverse, inclusive culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a world-class scientific environment.
- Qualifications: GCSE in science and at least 1 year of lab experience.
- Other info: Join a passionate team dedicated to advancing life-changing science.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Opportunity: Executes day‑to‑day lab operations & support objectives at customer facilities, following a defined standard output or set of procedures, focused on Avantor is seeking a highly motivated Senior Laboratory Technician to join our dynamic Basement Services team at the prestigious AstraZeneca Discovery Centre in Cambridge. This role is essential to ensuring smooth, efficient, and compliant laboratory operations that support critical scientific research.
As the Senior Laboratory Technician, you will take a leading role in the day‑to‑day activities of three service teams, providing hands‑on operational support across science‑occupied facilities. You will be responsible for equipment maintenance scheduling, database and inventory management, delivery coordination, and supporting a wide range of bespoke laboratory operations. Working closely with the Laboratory Services Manager, you will also help manage routine cleaning and maintenance schedules using digital tools to ensure the efficient organisation of team activities.
Key Responsibilities- Equipment Maintenance Management: Manage equipment maintenance schedules across DISC basement areas, including incubators, freezers, and pipettes. Support maintenance coordination across Freezer Hub, Labstock, Cell Banking, Basement Laboratory Support, and Sci‑Prep.
- Basement Services Operational Resilience: Perform bespoke technical activities to support all Basement Services functions. Assist with database and delivery management for Freezer Hub, Labstock, Cell Banking, and Basement Laboratory Support.
- Training Support: Serve as a key trainer for new starters, ensuring consistent, high‑quality training on Avantor processes.
- Sustainable Innovation: Identify and support innovative projects to improve laboratory workflows and drive sustainable practices.
- Change Control Support: Assist in implementing change controls in basement areas. Attend meetings, support installations, and provide progress updates to stakeholders.
- Documentation Support: Review newly produced or updated Risk Assessments (RA), Work Instructions (WI), and COSHH documents to ensure accuracy and compliance.
- Minimum of a GCSE in a science subject. A‑levels or relevant demonstrable experience.
- At least 1 year of experience in a laboratory environment.
- Experience with inventory management systems (advantageous).
- A degree in a scientific discipline (advantageous).
- Strong customer service orientation and ability to work collaboratively.
- Project management skills with flexibility to handle multiple tasks.
- Excellent problem‑solving skills and confidence in decision‑making.
- Ability to influence stakeholders and drive improvements.
- Clear written and verbal communication.
- Strong planning, organisational, and analytical abilities.
- Effective time‑management and adaptability.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Solid IT skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook).
- Previous laboratory experience is essential.
- Commitment to teamwork and organisational goals.
- Self‑motivated, energetic, and dependable.
Interested? Let’s talk!
Senior Laboratory Technician in Cambridge employer: Avantor
Contact Detail:
Avantor Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Laboratory Technician in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who work at Avantor or similar companies. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings and even referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to laboratory operations and team management. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or using online resources to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Bring examples of your past work, like successful projects or improvements you've made in lab processes. This will help you stand out and demonstrate your hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our team at Avantor.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Laboratory Technician in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Laboratory Technician role. Highlight relevant experience, especially in laboratory operations and equipment maintenance, to show us you’re the perfect fit for our team.
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t just list your qualifications; demonstrate how your skills align with the job description. We want to see your problem-solving abilities and project management skills shine through in your application.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you’re passionate about this role. Share specific examples of your past experiences that relate to the responsibilities mentioned in the job description.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates regarding your application status.
How to prepare for a job interview at Avantor
✨Know Your Lab Operations
Familiarise yourself with the day-to-day lab operations and specific procedures mentioned in the job description. Be ready to discuss how your previous experience aligns with managing equipment maintenance and supporting laboratory functions.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've tackled challenges in a lab setting. Highlight your ability to influence stakeholders and drive improvements, as these skills are crucial for the Senior Laboratory Technician role.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork and Training Experience
Since you'll be training new starters, think of instances where you've successfully collaborated with others or led training sessions. This will show your commitment to teamwork and your capability to support operational resilience.
✨Be Ready for Change Control Discussions
Brush up on your knowledge of change control processes and be prepared to discuss how you've contributed to implementing changes in past roles. This will demonstrate your adaptability and understanding of compliance in laboratory settings.