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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support laboratory activities and gain hands-on experience in analytical techniques.
- Company: Join Smithers, a leader in environmental risk sciences with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy private medical insurance, pension contributions, and career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on environmental science while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: BSc in Chemistry or related field and some lab experience required.
- Other info: Collaborate with experienced scientists in a dynamic and structured environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Chemist I to join the Analytical Chemistry team within the Environmental Risk Sciences (ERS) division of Smithers based in Harrogate. This role is ideal for an early‑career chemist with some prior laboratory experience who is enthusiastic about environmental science and keen to build a strong technical foundation in analytical chemistry and regulatory testing. The successful candidate will work alongside experienced scientists contributing to high‑quality data generation while developing their skills in a supportive and structured environment.
Smithers ERS Limited provides environmental and regulatory safety testing services across the pharmaceutical, agrochemical, biocidal, industrial and specialty chemical sectors. Our teams support global clients by generating robust regulator‑ready data to inform environmental risk and safety assessments.
The Role
Reporting to a Senior Scientist or Study Director the Chemist I will support routine and developmental laboratory activities gaining hands‑on experience in analytical techniques, quality systems and data reporting. This role offers an excellent opportunity to develop practical skills, scientific understanding and regulatory awareness with clear pathways for progression.
Key Responsibilities
- Support laboratory‑based analytical work under supervision following approved methods and SOPs
- Assist with sample preparation, instrument operation and basic data processing
- Contribute to analytical studies conducted under GLP and non‑GLP quality systems
- Support method development and troubleshooting activities where required
- Maintain accurate laboratory records and documentation in accordance with quality requirements
- Assist with routine instrument maintenance and laboratory housekeeping
- Develop understanding of emerging environmental contaminants and their analytical challenges
- Work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team learning from experienced scientists
Qualifications and Experience
- BSc (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry or a related discipline
- Some prior experience working in a laboratory environment (industry placement, CRO, industrial or academic lab)
- Basic understanding of quality systems (e.g. GLP, GMP, ISO)
- Knowledge of LC‑MS/MS is desirable but not essential
- Interest in environmental science and emerging contaminants
- Enthusiastic, proactive and keen to learn
- Good attention to detail and organisational skills
- Effective communication skills and a team‑oriented approach
We Offer
We offer a supportive environment where early‑career scientists can develop their skills while working on meaningful and impactful projects. Benefits include:
- Private Medical Insurance with Bupa
- Employer‑matched pension contributions
- Eyecare vouchers
- Ride to Work scheme
- Life assurance cover
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Free mortgage advice service
Start your career with Smithers and grow as an environmental scientist.
Chemist 1 in Harrogate employer: Smithers Careers
Contact Detail:
Smithers Careers Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chemist 1 in Harrogate
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the environmental science field on LinkedIn or at local events. We can’t stress enough how valuable connections can be when it comes to landing that Chemist I role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your analytical techniques and quality systems knowledge. We recommend practising common interview questions with a friend or mentor to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your enthusiasm for environmental science during interviews! Share your passion for emerging contaminants and any relevant projects you've worked on. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely excited about the field.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for fresh talent to join our team at Smithers.
We think you need these skills to ace Chemist 1 in Harrogate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience and skills that match the Chemist I role. We want to see how your background in chemistry and any lab experience fits with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Tell us why you're passionate about environmental science and how you can contribute to our team. Keep it engaging and personal, so we get a sense of who you are.
Showcase Your Enthusiasm: We love candidates who are eager to learn and grow! Make sure to express your enthusiasm for analytical chemistry and environmental issues in your application. Let us know what excites you about this opportunity!
Apply Through Our Website: To make sure your application gets to us, apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure we see your application and can consider you for the Chemist I position!
How to prepare for a job interview at Smithers Careers
✨Know Your Chemistry Basics
Brush up on your fundamental chemistry concepts, especially those related to analytical techniques and environmental science. Be ready to discuss your academic background and any relevant laboratory experience you have, as this will show your enthusiasm and readiness for the role.
✨Familiarise Yourself with GLP and Quality Systems
Since the role involves working under GLP and non-GLP quality systems, it’s crucial to understand these frameworks. Research what GLP entails and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to maintaining high-quality standards in the lab.
✨Prepare Questions for Your Interviewers
Think of insightful questions to ask your interviewers about the team dynamics, ongoing projects, or the types of analytical challenges they face. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.
✨Show Enthusiasm and a Willingness to Learn
Express your passion for environmental science and your eagerness to develop your skills. Highlight any specific areas of analytical chemistry that excite you, and demonstrate your proactive attitude towards learning and growth within the team.