Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support scientists in a fast-paced lab environment and ensure smooth operations.
- Company: Join Unilever, a global FMCG leader with iconic brands like Dove and Persil.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, free onsite parking, and discounts on products.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team driving innovation in a state-of-the-art facility.
- Qualifications: Experience in laboratory coordination and strong organisational skills required.
- Other info: Enjoy a vibrant working environment with clubs and catering options.
Manpower are currently seeking an interim Laboratory & Pilot Plant Operations Coordinator to work with our global FMCG client Unilever, renowned for brands such as Dove, Sure, Persil, and Simple, and become an integral part of their fast-paced FMCG environment. The position is based at our client's scientific Research & Development facility in Port Sunlight Village, Wirral easily accessible by train and car. This is a full-time temporary role to run until the end of July 2026, requiring 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Compensation for this role is competitive, paying between £31,205-£36,000 per annum, pro rata, depending upon experience.
As part of Unilever's ongoing initiative within the Port Sunlight R&D laboratories to improve efficiencies, a new Operational Excellence Team has been created. The role of this team is to support the day-to-day activities of scientists working in our labs and pilot plants and to ensure a safe, efficient and well-maintained facility. The team will focus on the implementation of new and optimised processes with a view to driving continual improvement.
The Laboratory Operational Coordinator role provides a range of support services to the Port Sunlight R&D scientific and engineering community. As an ideal candidate, you'll have a sharp awareness of laboratory operational requirements to ensure maximum productivity and be skilled in laboratory processes, e.g. formulation, characterisation and performance testing etc. Additionally, you'll display a proven ability to follow protocols and processes for efficient operations in a laboratory environment.
Key Accountabilities- Deliver front line technical support to lab/pilot plant users regarding ways of working, set up of facilities and immediate needs/enquiries.
- Deliver to point of use in laboratories material (chemicals) and associated ancillaries as appropriate.
- Maintain laboratory safety and housekeeping standards in accordance with our established safe working procedures.
- Ensure stock levels of raw materials, consumables and PPE are maintained in core areas.
- Coordinate with third party service providers to ensure goods inwards are correctly logged on LIMs.
- Maintain raw material and equipment information dossiers e.g. SDS, COAs, equipment passports etc.
- Decanting and weighing of raw materials for lab and pilot plant scientists.
- Experienced laboratory/scientific facilities coordinator and/or has pilot plant experience.
- Experience of chemical dispensing and handling, including familiarity with laboratory safety protocols and chemical handling procedures.
- Customer facing experience.
- Demonstrates confidence and competence in a laboratory environment and is comfortable handling associated tasks and equipment.
- Exceptional organisational, time management and demonstrate strong communication skills. Can ensure the smooth running of a large laboratory.
- Proficient IT skills e.g. Microsoft tools (Excel, Word). LIMS, Power BI & Power Apps would be advantageous.
Port Sunlight working environment:
- Free onsite parking
- Staff shop discounted products
- Working in state-of-the-art laboratory and pilot plant facilities
- 5 mins walk to train station serving Liverpool & Chester
- 20-minute drive from Liverpool city centre/30-minutes' drive from Chester
- Disabled parking
- In the heart of picturesque Port Sunlight village
- There are also several site clubs available to join covering a range of topics including Book Club, Running, Choir, Pool, Genealogy and much more.
- The sites have three catering outlets which provide a range of hot and cold food and drinks daily.
- In addition there are a range of vending machines and cold-water dispensers around the site accessible throughout the day.
Laboratory & Pilot Plant Operations Coordinator employer: Manpower UK Ltd
Contact Detail:
Manpower UK Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Laboratory & Pilot Plant Operations Coordinator
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those connected to Unilever or similar FMCG companies. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Unilever’s values and recent projects. Show us you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate how your skills align with their mission and how you can contribute to their Operational Excellence Team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, but keep it natural. We want to see your personality shine through, so don’t be afraid to let your passion for laboratory operations show!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we often have insider tips and updates on roles that might suit you perfectly.
We think you need these skills to ace Laboratory & Pilot Plant Operations Coordinator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Laboratory & Pilot Plant Operations Coordinator role. Highlight your relevant experience in laboratory operations and any specific skills that match the job description, like chemical handling or customer-facing roles.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role at Unilever. Mention your passion for improving lab efficiencies and how your background aligns with their operational excellence goals.
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to showcase your IT skills, especially if you’re familiar with tools like LIMS or Power BI. These are key for the role, so make sure they stand out in your application!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, so don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Manpower UK Ltd
✨Know Your Lab Basics
Make sure you brush up on your laboratory processes, especially formulation and performance testing. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you understand the core requirements of the role.
✨Safety First!
Familiarise yourself with laboratory safety protocols and chemical handling procedures. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve maintained safety standards in previous roles, as this is crucial for the position.
✨Show Off Your Organisational Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your exceptional organisational and time management skills. Think about times when you successfully coordinated tasks or managed stock levels in a lab setting.
✨Get Tech-Savvy
Brush up on your IT skills, particularly with Microsoft tools and any experience you have with LIMS or Power BI. Being able to demonstrate your proficiency in these areas can set you apart from other candidates.
