Laboratory Technician in Tewkesbury

We at JKR are recruiting for a Laboratory Technician to join our client, a fast-growing manufacturing company in Gloucestershire! The successful candidate will support the Quality and Process team by carrying out routine chemical analysis and process control testing across manufacturing chemistry, ensuring plating, etching and other wet-process lines remain within specification. The role investigates quality issues through structured testing, producing clear reports that support QA decision-making. Working safely with process chemicals at all times, the Laboratory Technician helps protect product quality, process consistency and regulatory compliance across the site.

Key Responsibilities:

• Carry out routine chemical analysis of process solutions (e.g. plating baths, etching and cleaning chemistries) to monitor concentration, contamination and process control limits.
• Make chemical additions and adjustments to manufacturing process lines in line with agreed procedures and control limits.
• Carry out laboratory and physical tests (e.g. solderability, microsectioning, ionic contamination, peel strength) to investigate quality issues and support root cause analysis.
• Produce clear, accurate test reports and records to support the QA department's decision-making and customer/regulatory requirements.
• Read and interpret mechanical drawings and specifications (e.g. IPC-A-600) to assess conformance of product samples.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records, calibration schedules and traceability of test equipment and samples.
• Store, handle and dispose of laboratory and process chemicals safely, in line with COSHH and site environmental requirements.
• Support the Quality and Process team with investigation of non-conformances, customer complaints and process deviations.
• Maintain a clean, organised and safe laboratory environment, promoting a 6S culture.
• Support the movement and handling of chemical drums and laboratory materials, including manual handling and forklift-assisted transport where trained and authorised.
• Ensure all laboratory and process chemistry work is carried out safely and in compliance with health and safety legislation and company policy, including COSHH, PPE and safe chemical handling procedures at all times.

Core Requirements:

• Understanding of chemistry principles and practical laboratory technique (e.g. titration, sample preparation).
• Aware of COSHH and safe chemical storage, handling and disposal requirements.
• Good record-keeping and report-writing skills to support QA documentation.
• A-level Chemistry (or equivalent) or a relevant scientific/laboratory qualification.
• Experience carrying out routine chemical analysis or laboratory testing, ideally in a manufacturing or process environment.
• Understanding of COSHH and safe chemical handling practices.
• Ability to lift and handle loads up to 25kg (50lb) safely, following manual handling training.

Desirable Skills & Experience:

• Understanding of PCB manufacturing process chemistry (e.g. plating, etching, cleaning lines).
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings and specifications.
• Aware of IPC-A-600 visual acceptability standards.
• Knowledge of, or qualification in, IPC-A-600 (or willingness to train).
• Experience or qualification in a PCB, electronics or similarly regulated manufacturing environment.
• Forklift truck licence.

Working Hours & Benefits:

• 08:30-17:00 Monday-Thursday
• 08:30-16:00 Fridays
• Quarterly profit-sharing bonus
• 31 days' holiday including Bank Holidays
• Pension - 3% employer 5% employee
• Paid professional development
• Discounts and savings portal
• Wellbeing portal
• Cycle to Work
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Life Assurance policy