Laboratory Assistant

Laboratory Assistant

Workington Temporary 28800 - 43200 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join our lab team to support product development and environmental monitoring.
  • Company: Holmen Board and Paper is a Swedish company producing premium paperboard in Workington.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 33 days leave, and health perks like a contributory pension plan.
  • Why this job: Gain hands-on lab experience while contributing to innovation and sustainability in a supportive environment.
  • Qualifications: GCSEs in Science, Maths, and English; enthusiasm for learning is essential.
  • Other info: This is a 12-month temporary role with opportunities for growth and development.

The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.

We currently have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Laboratory Assistant to join our team at our Workington Mill. Joining us on a full-time, 12-month temporary basis, you will receive a competitive salary and become part of our welcoming team.

Holmen Board and Paper is a Swedish company and a member of the Holmen Group. The Workington Mill produces premium paperboard under the brand Incada. Our paperboard is an integral part of the shopping experience for our clients' customers. Since 2013 we have powered the mill almost entirely by fossil fuel free energy. We value our employees and products highly. Today we are approximately 340 co-workers. Our integrated pulp and paperboard mill is located to the west of the beautiful Lake District in the north of England.

What we will offer you:

  • A competitive salary
  • Fantastic Contributory pension plan
  • Life assurance
  • 33 days annual leave (inclusive of bank holidays) and the option to buy additional holidays every year
  • A range of benefits to support your health and wellbeing
  • Opportunities to develop and grow
  • Annual uniform allowance
  • Occupational Health provision
  • On-site staff canteen
  • Cycle to work scheme
  • Exclusive staff discounts and deals through Benefit Hub
  • Social Club with regular events throughout the year
  • Family friendly procedures including enhanced maternity leave and menopause procedure.

About the role:

Are you passionate about science and looking for your first step into a lab-based career? Join our Laboratory Team in this 12-month temporary Laboratory Assistant role and gain hands-on experience supporting product development, environmental monitoring, and process optimisation in a manufacturing environment.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who has completed their GCSEs, A-levels, or equivalent qualifications and wants to build practical skills in a professional lab setting.

As a Laboratory Assistant, you will:

  • Carry out routine lab testing and process sampling
  • Support development projects and troubleshooting tasks
  • Assist with equipment calibration and maintenance
  • Contribute to keeping the lab organised and clean (high 5S standards)
  • Follow all safe working practices and help improve safety wherever possible
  • Learn how to interpret and report test results following standard procedures
  • Make real contributions to our mill's innovation and environmental efforts

What we are looking for in our Laboratory Assistant:

Essential:

  • GCSEs in Science, Maths, and English
  • A methodical, detail-oriented approach to work
  • Enthusiasm for learning and being part of a supportive team

Desirable (but not essential):

  • An understanding of laboratory or sampling safe working practices
  • Interest in the manufacturing or paperboard industry

What You Will Gain:

  • Real-world experience in an industrial laboratory
  • A deeper understanding of product development and environmental processes
  • Guidance from experienced professionals and a supportive team culture
  • A great foundation for future education or a permanent role in science or manufacturing

Closing Date: 4:00 PM on Friday 13th June 2025.

If you are looking for the opportunity to challenge yourself and make a positive impact with a pioneering customer-orientated business, we would love to hear from you. Please click apply now to be considered as our Laboratory Assistant!

Holmen is an equal opportunities employer that values diversity and is strongly committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and all applicants for employment.

We are devoted and committed to developing our teams and ensuring that our staff have the courage, commitment, and responsibility to perform at their best. We provide significant resources to enable you to achieve your potential and expect our staff to perform to the best of their ability at all times.

Laboratory Assistant employer: Iggesund Paperboard

Holmen Board and Paper is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture and numerous benefits, including a competitive salary, generous annual leave, and a contributory pension plan. Located near the stunning Lake District, employees enjoy a range of health and wellbeing initiatives, opportunities for professional growth, and a commitment to sustainability, making it an ideal place for those looking to start their career in a lab-based environment.
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Contact Detail:

Iggesund Paperboard Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Laboratory Assistant

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the specific processes and equipment used in laboratory settings, especially those related to product development and environmental monitoring. This knowledge will help you stand out during interviews and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the paperboard or manufacturing industry. Attend relevant workshops or seminars, and connect with people on platforms like LinkedIn. This can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals for the Laboratory Assistant position.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your enthusiasm for learning and teamwork during the interview. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully collaborated with others or tackled challenges, as this aligns with the supportive team culture at Holmen.

✨Tip Number 4

Research Holmen's commitment to sustainability and their fossil fuel-free energy initiatives. Being knowledgeable about the company's values and goals will not only impress your interviewers but also show that you're aligned with their mission.

We think you need these skills to ace Laboratory Assistant

Attention to Detail
Methodical Approach
Basic Laboratory Skills
Understanding of Safe Working Practices
Teamwork
Communication Skills
Problem-Solving Skills
Time Management
Data Interpretation
Organisational Skills
Enthusiasm for Learning
Basic Knowledge of Science and Mathematics

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Laboratory Assistant position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with what Holmen is looking for.

Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Make sure to emphasise your GCSEs in Science, Maths, and English in your CV and cover letter. If you have any additional qualifications or experiences related to laboratory work, be sure to include those as well.

Show Enthusiasm: Express your passion for science and eagerness to learn in your application. Mention any specific interests in product development or environmental processes that relate to the role, as this will demonstrate your commitment to the position.

Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, take the time to proofread your CV and cover letter. Check for any spelling or grammatical errors, and ensure that your documents are clear and professional. A polished application reflects your attention to detail.

How to prepare for a job interview at Iggesund Paperboard

✨Show Your Passion for Science

Make sure to express your enthusiasm for science and laboratory work during the interview. Share any relevant experiences or projects that sparked your interest in this field, as it will demonstrate your commitment to the role.

✨Highlight Your Attention to Detail

As a Laboratory Assistant, being detail-oriented is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed tasks that required precision and accuracy, whether in school projects or previous jobs.

✨Familiarise Yourself with Safety Practices

Even if you don't have extensive lab experience, showing that you understand the importance of safety in a laboratory setting can set you apart. Brush up on basic lab safety protocols and be ready to discuss them.

✨Ask Insightful Questions

Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the company. Inquire about the team dynamics, opportunities for learning, and how the lab contributes to the company's environmental efforts. This shows your genuine interest in the position.

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