At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide hands-on technical support for chemistry equipment in a dynamic lab environment.
- Company: Join VWR Services, a leader in on-site laboratory services for a major pharmaceutical client.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, training opportunities, and a collaborative work culture.
- Other info: Flexible hours and a focus on continuous improvement make this role exciting.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by supporting scientists and ensuring lab equipment runs smoothly.
- Qualifications: Experience in a lab setting and strong mechanical knowledge are essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
VWR Services delivers a broad range of on‑site laboratory services to a major pharmaceutical client. We are seeking a Chemistry Support Specialist to join our team in Macclesfield. You will provide hands‑on technical support to scientists within a dynamic laboratory environment, ensuring equipment operates safely and efficiently.
Location: Charter Way, Silk Road Business Park, Macclesfield, SK10 2NA
Working hours: Monday to Friday, 7:00am–3:00pm or 8:00am–4:00pm
Role Summary
As a Chemistry Support Specialist, you will be the first‑line technical support for chemistry equipment, including bespoke systems. You will work closely with scientists and service providers to maintain laboratory equipment in line with customer agreements.
Key Responsibilities
- Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair: glass jacketed reactors, heater/chiller circulators, pipework and fittings, rotavaps, and vacuum pumps.
- Handle and fit gas cylinders, lecture bottles, regulators, and specialty gases safely.
- Diagnose equipment issues and implement effective solutions.
- Perform scheduled preventative maintenance on Mettler Toledo equipment (full training provided).
- Ensure lab equipment is fit for purpose through planned maintenance schedules.
- Manage stock levels of consumables and spare parts.
- Perform equipment performance checks and act as a superuser where required.
- Collaborate with internal and external service providers and laboratory scientists.
- Develop SOPs, quick‑reference guides, and risk assessments.
- Contribute to continuous improvement, efficiency gains, and cost‑saving initiatives.
- Train and support colleagues where needed.
Qualifications & Experience
- Experience working in a laboratory or similar technical environment.
- Strong mechanical or engineering knowledge (essential).
- Good understanding of laboratory processes and safety standards.
- Familiarity with SOPs, KPIs, pressure systems, material compatibility, and laboratory plumbing (e.g., Swagelok) is advantageous (training provided).
- Competent with workshop tools and hands‑on technical tasks.
- Strong problem‑solving ability with a logical approach.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft 365 (Teams, Word, Excel).
- Good planning, organisational, and time‑management skills.
- Ability to manage workload independently in line with SLAs.
Personal Attributes
- Customer‑focused with a collaborative mindset.
- Self‑motivated and accountable.
- Flexible and adaptable to changing priorities.
- Mechanically minded with a proactive approach to problem‑solving.
- Committed to high standards, continuous improvement, and excellence.
- Positive, respectful team player with strong influencing skills.
Chemistry Support Specialist (F/M/D) in Macclesfield employer: Avantor
VWR Services is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and dynamic work environment in Macclesfield where you can make a meaningful impact in the pharmaceutical sector. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide comprehensive training and development opportunities, ensuring that our team members are equipped with the skills needed to excel in their roles. Our commitment to high standards and continuous improvement fosters a culture of excellence, making VWR Services a rewarding place to build your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chemistry Support Specialist (F/M/D) in Macclesfield
✨Get Involved in the Chemistry Community
Engage with local chemistry societies and attend their events. Whether it's a conference or a seminar, these gatherings can be gold mines for networking and spotting job openings at companies like Avantor. Plus, being face-to-face with industry professionals can leave a lasting impression!
✨Utilise Online Platforms for Chemistry Jobs
Don’t just rely on mainstream job boards. Sites like Chemistry World and Chemjobs are specifically geared for our field. Set up alerts for new openings at places like Avantor to be the first to apply!
✨Showcase Your Research & Projects
Create a professional online portfolio that highlights your chemistry projects or research. This could be a blog or a simple website that showcases your skills and experience. When you apply to Avantor, you want them to see what you can do beyond the CV.
✨Connect With Recruiters Specialised in Chemistry
Reach out to recruitment agencies that focus on the chemistry sector. They often have inside tracks on job openings at companies like Avantor and can provide valuable advice tailored to full-time roles in our industry. Don't be shy to ask for insights!
We think you need these skills to ace Chemistry Support Specialist (F/M/D) in Macclesfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:When applying for a chemistry position, make sure to highlight any lab experience you've got. Mention specific techniques and instruments you've worked with, as they can set you apart from other candidates. For us, demonstrating your practical skills is as important as your theoretical knowledge!
Tailor Your CV to Chemistry:It's essential to structure your CV in a way that’s appealing for a chemistry role. Highlight relevant projects, research publications, and coursework that demonstrate your expertise. If you’ve completed specific certifications, make sure to list those as well—they can really boost your chances!
Craft a Chemistry-Focused Cover Letter:In your cover letter, share your enthusiasm for the field of chemistry and why you want to work at Avantor. Talk about any research or projects that inspire you, and express your willingness to contribute to the team. We love seeing genuine passion for chemistry in applications!
Include Relevant References:Since chemistry roles can be quite specific, having reference letters from professors or previous employers in the field can be a huge plus. Make sure to include contacts who can vouch for your skills and dedication, as it adds credibility to your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at Avantor
✨Know Your Experiments
Get ready to chat about your hands-on experience in the lab. We should be prepared to discuss specific experiments we've conducted, the results, and any challenges we faced. This shows them we don't just know the theory but can apply it in practice!
✨Master the Technical Speak
Brush up on the relevant terminology and concepts in chemistry. Make sure we can discuss different chemical processes, analytical techniques, and safety protocols fluently, as they might throw some technical questions our way. Being precise and confident can really set us apart!
✨Show Off Your Projects
Make a portfolio showcasing our best lab work and any research projects we've been involved in. It's a great way to demonstrate our skills and passion for chemistry. We should tailor it to highlight the aspects most relevant to Avantor and the Chemistry Support Specialist (F/M/D) role.
✨Be Ready for Problem Solving
Expect some scenario-based questions where we might need to solve chemical problems on the spot. They could ask about unexpected results or how to improve a process. Let's practice thinking on our feet and explaining our thought process clearly!
