At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the laboratory team to ensure product safety and quality compliance.
- Company: Join a family-owned dairy business with a commitment to quality.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with a focus on continuous improvement and team development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on food safety and quality in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in laboratory management and knowledge of food safety regulations.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 44000 £ per year.
Cotteswold Dairy is a long-established, family-owned business, proud to deliver quality dairy products with first-class service. We are seeking a dynamic, knowledgeable Laboratory Manager to confidently lead our laboratory function, develop our people, and work closely with the Technical team to uphold the high quality and standards of our family dairy.
You will ensure strict compliance with BRCGS certifications, HACCP protocols and food safety legislation while driving continuous improvement across testing, audit readiness, and documentation.
The Role
- Own product safety, quality and compliance across all testing activities (raw materials, in-process, finished product, shelf life).
- Plan and oversee testing schedules, ensuring the correct methods are followed and results are recorded, monitored, analysed and trended.
- Manage and develop the Laboratory Technicians and Team Leader; foster a collaborative, high-performance culture with clear communication on food safety and quality issues.
- Maintain audit readiness: prepare for and participate in site accreditation audits (BRCGS), supporting the Technical Manager.
- Ensure all laboratory equipment is maintained, calibrated, validated and serviced to schedule; manage new installs and verifications.
- Coordinate external laboratory analysis and provide Certificates of Conformance to customers; initiate and manage non-conformance investigations with Technical and Production.
- Champion HACCP, Food Safety Management Systems, and robust laboratory procedures; oversee the Laboratory Manual and testing regimes in line with legislation and COSHH.
- Drive KPI reporting, root-cause analysis, corrective actions, and continuous improvement of testing procedures and documentation.
Laboratory Manager in Tewkesbury employer: Cotteswold Dairy
Cotteswold Dairy is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and family-oriented work culture that values reliability and motivation. With flexible hours and opportunities for personal growth, our team members enjoy a rewarding experience as they deliver fresh dairy products to customers in the Hereford area, all while being part of a respected independent business that prioritises excellent customer service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Laboratory Manager in Tewkesbury
✨Join Food Science Communities
Get involved in food science forums and communities, both online and offline. Platforms like LinkedIn Groups or Reddit can be goldmines for job leads and valuable insights. Plus, you’ll connect with other food enthusiasts who might even point you towards openings at companies like Cotteswold Dairy.
✨Attend Industry Conferences and Workshops
Check out exhibitions and workshops in the food science sector. Events like the International Congress on Food Technology are not just knowledge hubs, but also great networking opportunities. You never know who you might bump into – perhaps a hiring manager from Cotteswold Dairy!
✨Show Off Your Passion for Food Tech
Start a blog or social media channel showcasing innovative food science projects or trends. This not only showcases your expertise but also raises your visibility in the field. When you apply for a role at companies like Cotteswold Dairy, they’ll see you’re proactive and truly passionate about food technology.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you're fresh out of uni, make use of your career services! They often have exclusive job boards and connections with companies looking for graduates. Don't forget to mention your interest in roles like those at Cotteswold Dairy, and they might have insider tips or referrals just for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Laboratory Manager in Tewkesbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at Cotteswold Dairy, make sure to highlight any relevant projects or research you've worked on. Whether it’s a dissertation, a lab experiment, or a product development idea, detail these experiences to demonstrate your hands-on skills in the field—employers love to see practical applications of your knowledge!
Highlight Technical Skills:In the food science and technology industry, technical skills are key. Be sure to list any specific skills you have related to food safety, quality control, or food processing technologies on your CV. Also, mention any software or analytical tools you’re proficient in, as this shows you're ready to hit the ground running at Cotteswold Dairy.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:As this is a full-time position, your cover letter should convey not just why you want the job, but also how you fit into the company's vision. Talk about your passion for food science and how your background uniquely positions you to contribute to Cotteswold Dairy. Make it personal and compelling!
Include Certifications:If you have any certifications related to food science, safety, or technology, be sure to mention them. These can really set you apart from other candidates! List them prominently on your CV and discuss how they relate to the role at Cotteswold Dairy. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cotteswold Dairy
✨Know Your Lab Tech!
Given that you’re diving into food science and technology, brush up on the specific technologies and lab equipment mentioned in the job description. Familiarising yourself with tools like gas chromatography or texture analyzers will show that you’re serious about the technical side of things.
✨Show Off Your Project Experience
Prepare to discuss any relevant projects or research you've undertaken in food science. Whether it’s developing a new recipe, conducting taste tests, or analysing nutritional content, having tangible examples can really show off your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Emphasise Your Soft Skills
Don't underestimate the importance of teamwork and communication in food science roles. Be ready to highlight instances where you’ve effectively collaborated with others or communicated complex scientific ideas clearly. This can make a huge difference in landing that full-time gig!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Make sure you’re clued up about the latest trends in food science and technology — think sustainability, food safety, and innovative processing techniques. Discussing these topics during your interview can demonstrate your enthusiasm for the field and how you can contribute to Cotteswold Dairy’s mission.
