Lab Technician (Analytical, Wet Chemistry) in Watford

Science plays a vital role in creating safer, more resilient buildings. BRE’s laboratories are at the forefront of testing materials and products that shape the future of the built environment. In this role you will support reaction‑to‑fire testing and chemical analysis, contributing to the evaluation of construction products, fire‑safety investigations and innovative testing programmes.

The Lab Technician supports reaction‑to‑fire and chemical testing activities within BRE’s Passive Fire Protection laboratories, carrying out analytical and wet‑chemistry testing to assess, classify and investigate construction products and materials.

• Conduct laboratory testing relating to reaction‑to‑fire performance, including smoke, flame spread, heat release and fire effluent gas analysis.
• Perform wet‑chemical analysis using established non‑instrumented laboratory methods.
• Support instrumented analytical testing, including ion chromatography (IC) and FTIR gas analysis.
• Undertake small‑scale flammability, smoke and heat release testing in accordance with approved procedures.
• Ensure laboratory equipment is calibrated, maintained and ready for use.
• Work in accordance with UKAS accredited procedures, quality standards and laboratory protocols.
• Record test data accurately and maintain clear technical documentation.
• Support investigative testing of materials used in existing structures, including cladding and fire‑safety related products.
• Contribute to the evaluation and classification of new construction products prior to market launch.
• Maintain high standards of health, safety and housekeeping within the laboratory environment.

• Degree, HND or equivalent qualification in Chemistry or a related scientific discipline.
• Practical laboratory experience, ideally within analytical or wet‑chemistry environments.
• Knowledge of non‑instrumented wet‑chemical analysis methods.
• Awareness of instrumental analytical techniques such as ion chromatography (IC) or FTIR (desirable).
• Experience working to standard operating procedures, quality standards or accredited laboratory systems such as UKAS (desirable).
• Ability to carry out testing accurately and maintain precise records and documentation.
• Strong attention to detail with a focus on accuracy, consistency and quality.
• Good organisational skills, with the ability to manage tasks and priorities effectively.
• Understanding of health and safety requirements within a laboratory environment.
• Ability to identify routine issues and support practical problem‑solving.
• Experience using Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel and Outlook.
• Commitment to supporting high‑quality testing services and maintaining the technical reputation of BRE.

• Competitive salary, reviewed annually, and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support financial security, well‑being and career development.
• Pension scheme – 5% employer‑matched contribution.
• Life assurance – 4× your basic salary.
• Enhanced maternity package.
• HealthPartners cashback scheme – reclaim costs on prescriptions, physiotherapy, dental care and more.
• On‑site facilities – restaurant, nursery and free parking, including at‑cost EV charging points.
• Learning & development – free access to BRE Academy and online learning platform.
• Professional membership reimbursement.

On‑site – This role requires full‑time presence at our Watford office. Applicants must live within a commutable distance.

BRE is an equal‑opportunities employer. We assess all qualified applicants based on merit and do not discriminate on the grounds of race, colour, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information or any other legally protected characteristics.