Sample Reception Officer in Bedford

Join a Laboratory Team Solving Complex Analytical Challenges. Bring your organisation, accuracy and interest in science to Tetra Tech’s Bedford laboratory, supporting vital analytical work for clients across the agrochemical, environmental and regulatory sectors.

Purpose and Scope of the Role

As Sample Reception Officer, you will be part of the Sample Reception team supporting our established Laboratory team in Bedford on a full-time, 6-month fixed term contract, with the possibility of extension. You will oversee incoming sample deliveries, review accompanying documentation, book samples into LIMS and ensure client requirements are clearly captured from the outset. You will work closely with laboratory colleagues and the Project Coordination Team to help maintain sample flow, storage, disposal and traceability.

The Bedford laboratory has a long-standing reputation for expert analytical solutions, including UKAS-accredited PFAS analysis, and supports clients with complex requirements relating to quality standards, maximum residue limits, environmental regulation and routine monitoring.

Your Impact in this Position

In the short term, you will help ensure samples are received, recorded and stored accurately, enabling reliable laboratory testing and timely delivery for clients. As you build knowledge of our processes, you will contribute to smoother workflows, improved sample management and effective communication between reception, project coordination and analytical teams. Longer term, this role offers the opportunity to develop practical laboratory operations experience within a respected technical environment, with exposure to specialist instrumentation, regulatory testing and complex analytical programmes.

Core Capabilities

• Accuracy and Attention to Detail: Record sample information, temperatures, deviations, paperwork, chain of custody details and purchase order information accurately in LIMS.
• Sample Handling and Organisation: Receive, unpack, store and track samples efficiently, ensuring they are placed in the correct locations and managed in line with procedures.
• Communication and Collaboration: Liaise clearly with laboratory colleagues, project coordinators and internal stakeholders to support timely sample processing and disposal.
• Process Compliance: Follow established procedures for sample reception, storage, basic preparation and determination, maintaining traceability and quality standards.
• Working Under Pressure: Manage multiple incoming deliveries and changing priorities in a fast-paced environment while maintaining accuracy and professionalism.

Skills, Qualifications And Experience

You will have excellent interpersonal skills, strong attention to detail and the ability to work independently as well as part of a team. An interest in science is important, and science-related qualifications would be beneficial. Experience in a fast-paced environment is desirable, while previous laboratory experience would be advantageous. Experience using LIMS software would be highly desirable.

Work Patterns and Location

This is a full-time role based at our Bedford laboratory on a fixed 6 month contract. Due to the hands-on nature of sample reception, regular on-site attendance is expected.

Why join Tetra Tech?

Tetra Tech is a leading provider of consulting and engineering services working across the full project lifecycle worldwide. We have a wide range of expertise across our teams, providing a global support network with a personalised approach to client relationships to better understand where we can add value. We provide a collaborative environment that supports individual performance, innovation, and creativity. We support public and private sector clients on local, national, and international projects to deliver sustainable and resilient solutions.

Our operations in the UK, Ireland, and the Netherlands include more than 6,000 employees who are Leading with Science to solve our clients’ most complex problems. In alignment with the Equality Act 2010, we will make reasonable adjustments to support candidates and employees requiring additional arrangements. This could include adaptations to work schedules, training approaches, or the physical workspace. Please inform us if you need any accommodations during the recruitment process or in your day-to-day role.