Lab Technician - 12 month fixed term contract

The Laboratory Technician carries out analytical tests to assess the quality, grade or other characteristics of incoming, produced or researched products and goods, in accordance with quality system guidelines or test protocols, in order to ensure that the products and goods comply with the set quality standards and/or research test results can be properly assessed.

In R&D, the Laboratory Technician not only carries out more regular laboratory activities but is also involved with setting-up, conducting and reporting of specific R&D tests and analysis and assists in designing and developing new (in vitro) assays in close collaboration with project teams, in order to support the development of new or improved products.

Within an OpCo Laboratory, the focus of the Laboratory Technician role is on first-line technical and analytical support. In the Laboratory, he/she performs tests on samples of incoming raw materials, produced goods in various stages of the production process, and samples of end products. Also, various analyses can be conducted at the request of customers.

Within an R&D laboratory (Aquaculture Research Centre – ARC – Animal Nutrition R&D or Masterlab), the focus of the Laboratory Technician is not only on first-line technical and analytical support but also on supporting the research & development activities, in collaboration with researchers and project teams. More senior Laboratory Technician roles in R&D may also supervise R&D laboratory activities and train, supervise and manage Laboratory Assistants, Technicians and Laboratory Technicians operating in the R&D laboratory (including Masterlab personnel and students).

Join Trouw Nutrition, a Nutreco company, supporting our laboratory operations in Ashbourne. As global leaders in animal nutrition, our shared purpose of Feeding the Future drives innovation, collaboration, and meaningful impact. This is a great opportunity to start or develop your career in a hands-on role where you’ll learn how laboratory processes work in a real operational environment. This role would suit someone looking for a year in industry during their studies. You’ll be responsible for registering samples, managing data accurately, and supporting the smooth day-to-day running of the lab. You’ll also have the chance to interact with customers, helping to ensure a reliable and professional service. Working in a fast-paced and supportive team, you’ll build valuable skills, gain practical experience, and grow your confidence while making a real contribution to our operations.

What you will do:

• Comply with our UKAS ISO 17025:2017 for all accredited methods and procedures and where possible apply those criteria to other non-accredited activities.
• Performance of all ‘wet’ chemistry techniques. Preparation and analysis of samples for vitamins (HPLC), mineral analysis (ICP) and enzyme analysis.
• Analysis of all samples by NIR (Raw material ID, Premix ID, Feeds and Forages).
• Assist the Laboratory Managers in the effective performance of their duties.
• Specific responsibility for all aspects of sample preparation.
• Assisting and supporting the senior analyst in their duties.
• Ensure the laboratories, stock rooms and associated areas and all equipment within are clean and properly maintained.
• Ensure that all samples are stored correctly and clearly.
• Ensure turnaround times for analysis of feeds and premixes for ‘wet’ chemistry techniques and NIR analysis are as quick as possible.
• Become familiar with and proficient in as many techniques as possible to provide cover when necessary.

What we are looking for:

• Experience of working in an analytical laboratory.
• Experience in working with databases, ideally experience of using LIMS.
• Good IT skills – Outlook, Excel and Word.
• Attention to detail; ability to work systematically.
• Ability to undertake measurement and analysis.
• Willingness to carry out tasks outside the normal area of work where necessary.
• Able to work on own initiative as part of a small team.
• Happy to deal with agricultural samples including silage etc.
• Willingness to work in support of the Nutreco Group values – capable, caring, collaborative and innovative.

Location & Details:

• Location: Ashbourne, UK
• Work model: On-site
• Contract: Fixed Term for 12 months, full-time (40 hours, Monday–Friday)

What you’ll receive:

• 25 days of holiday per calendar year based on full-time working hours, plus 8 UK bank holidays.
• Training and development opportunities, including systems and laboratory processes.
• Opportunity to build experience within a global organisation.

Our organisation:

Trouw Nutrition is the global leader in innovative feed specialties, premixes and nutritional services for the animal nutrition industry. Trouw Nutrition provides species-specific nutritional solutions consisting of feed concepts, products and nutritional know-how. The unique combination of products, models and services Trouw Nutrition offers boosts productivity and supports animal health through all life stages, contributing to our customers' peace of mind. Trouw Nutrition's nutrition solutions have met the need of farmers and home-mixers, feed producers, integrators and distributors. Trouw Nutrition has locations in 25 countries and around 5000 employees. Our mission is Feeding the Future.

Equal Opportunity Employer: Trouw Nutrition is an equal opportunity employer; applicants are considered for all roles without regard to race, colour, religious creed, sex, national origin, citizenship status, age, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, marital, parental, military status or any other status protected by applicable local law. Please advise us at any point during the recruitment and selection process if you require accommodation. Trouw Nutrition is committed to compliance with all applicable legislation, including providing accommodation for applicants with disabilities.