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- Tasks: Lead analytical lab operations and ensure quality control in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: Specialised chemical manufacturing organisation focused on precision and continuous improvement.
- Benefits: Autonomy, influence, and opportunities for professional growth in a dynamic setting.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving quality standards and mentoring junior analysts.
- Qualifications: Degree in Analytical Chemistry and significant experience in QC or analytical labs.
- Other info: Fast-moving environment requiring adaptability and strong collaboration skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Talent STEM are partnering with a highly specialised chemical manufacturing organisation operating within regulated industrial markets. This is a key senior laboratory position within a small, technically driven site where quality, precision and continuous improvement are central to success. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in leading day to day analytical and quality control activities while supporting production, technical development and wider operational objectives.
This is not a routine testing role. You will be the technical authority within the laboratory, ensuring analytical robustness, data integrity and regulatory compliance in a fast paced manufacturing environment. You will work cross functionally with operations, technical and quality teams to ensure materials and finished products meet defined specifications and client expectations. The role offers significant autonomy and influence within a growing and evolving business.
Key Responsibilities- Lead the daily operation of the analytical laboratory in a deadline driven production setting
- Perform and oversee analysis of raw materials, intermediates and finished products using GC, HPLC, FTIR, Karl Fischer and classical wet chemistry techniques
- Develop, optimise and validate analytical methods to ensure accuracy, repeatability and fitness for purpose
- Review and trend analytical data, identifying shifts, deviations and opportunities for improvement
- Maintain and improve quality systems aligned to ISO 9001 standards
- Manage laboratory documentation including specifications, SOPs, investigations and CAPA activities
- Support internal and external audits
- Troubleshoot instrumentation including GC, HPLC and associated gas generation systems
- Coordinate external service engineers for calibration, preventative maintenance and repair
- Mentor and develop junior analysts, setting clear technical expectations
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives across laboratory and production processes
- Support technical and R&D activities including process development and specification setting
You will be an experienced analytical chemist who thrives in a hands on manufacturing environment.
- Degree in Analytical Chemistry or closely related discipline
- Significant experience in a QC or analytical laboratory within chemical, fine chemical or pharmaceutical manufacturing
- Strong working knowledge of GC and HPLC operation and troubleshooting
- Experience with FTIR, Karl Fischer and titration techniques
- Understanding of analytical method development and validation
- Experience operating within ISO 9001 or comparable quality systems
- Strong data review skills with the ability to interpret trends and anomalies
- Excellent organisational skills with the ability to prioritise under pressure
This is a site based laboratory role within a production facility. The environment is fast moving and requires adaptability, resilience and strong collaboration skills. The role involves handling chemicals and operating analytical instrumentation daily. Candidates must have the right to work in the UK as sponsorship is not available.
If you are a technically strong analytical chemist looking for a senior role where you can influence laboratory standards, mentor others and support operational growth, Talent STEM would be pleased to speak with you. To apply or request further information, please contact Talent STEM directly for a confidential discussion.
Senior Analytical Lab Lead – QC & Method Development in Cambridge employer: Talent STEM Ltd
Contact Detail:
Talent STEM Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Analytical Lab Lead – QC & Method Development in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios related to analytical chemistry and quality control. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your expertise! Bring along examples of your previous work, such as reports or presentations, to demonstrate your skills during interviews. We want to see how you’ve tackled challenges and contributed to continuous improvement in your past roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in leaving a positive impression. We believe it shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Analytical Lab Lead – QC & Method Development in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the job description. Highlight your analytical chemistry expertise and any relevant experience in QC or method development to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share your passion for quality control and continuous improvement, and don’t forget to mention any hands-on experience with GC, HPLC, or other techniques we value.
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your past roles, focus on your achievements rather than just responsibilities. Use metrics where possible to demonstrate how you’ve improved processes or ensured compliance in previous positions.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity in our growing team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Talent STEM Ltd
✨Know Your Techniques Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the analytical techniques mentioned in the job description, like GC, HPLC, and FTIR. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with these methods and how you've used them to solve real-world problems in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this is a senior position, highlight your experience in leading teams and mentoring junior analysts. Prepare examples of how you've driven continuous improvement initiatives or managed quality systems, as this will demonstrate your capability to influence and lead within the lab.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect in-depth technical questions related to method development, validation, and troubleshooting. Brush up on your knowledge of ISO 9001 standards and be ready to discuss how you ensure data integrity and regulatory compliance in your work.
✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Skills
Be prepared to discuss specific challenges you've faced in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and how you overcame them. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and clearly illustrate your problem-solving abilities.