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- Tasks: Assist in fieldwork and lab tasks, collecting and analysing environmental samples.
- Company: Join The James Hutton Institute, a leader in tackling global environmental challenges.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, generous annual leave, and a supportive Employee Assistance Programme.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on environmental research while gaining hands-on experience in a friendly team.
- Qualifications: HNC qualification or equivalent experience; good communication skills; driving licence required.
- Other info: Willingness to travel for fieldwork and handle environmental samples with provided PPE.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
The James Hutton Group is a world-leading research organisation tackling global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, soil degradation, and threats to food and water security. Our work supports sustainable land and natural resource management, helping to shape a better, more resilient future.
The Role
We are currently seeking a Laboratory and Field Work Assistant (Level 2) to join our dedicated and enthusiastic Technical Group within the Environmental and Biogeochemical Sciences Department, based at our Aberdeen site. This is a varied role combining both fieldwork and laboratory tasks. The successful candidate will support the technical field and experimental team in collecting and analysing environmental samples, conducting basic laboratory procedures, and maintaining monitoring equipment. The role underpins important research areas, particularly in water quality (including microbial analysis and testing for emerging contaminants) and wastewater management.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with the manufacture, assembly, and maintenance of bioelectrical systems for wastewater treatment.
- Process environmental samples, including sieving, milling, and filtering of soils, sediments, and waters.
- Carry out basic laboratory analysis in line with established protocols.
- Assist with the collection of environmental samples (e.g., soil, water, vegetation).
- Accurately record and collate data using both paper and electronic formats (Word and Excel).
- Support maintenance of field sites and monitoring equipment.
- Follow all health and safety guidance, including the use of provided personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Willingness to handle environmental samples such as wastewater, sewage effluent, soils, and sediments with appropriate PPE.
- Full, clean UK driving licence with willingness to drive for work purposes.
- HNC qualification or equivalent relevant work experience.
- Competency in using Microsoft Word and Excel.
- Good verbal and written communication skills.
- Emergency First Aid at Work qualification (or willingness to obtain).
- Willingness to travel and stay overnight for occasional fieldwork.
Why Join Us?
This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to important environmental research at a leading scientific institution. You’ll work as part of a friendly and supportive team and gain hands-on experience across a wide range of scientific techniques and environments.
How to Apply
To apply, please submit your CV and a covering letter outlining your suitability for the role via our website using the 'Apply Now' button on the right-hand side of the screen.
Interviews
Interviews are scheduled to take place in person at Craigiebuckler on Monday, 21 July 2025.
What We Offer
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) - A confidential service available to support employees and their families with work or personal problems.
- Annual Leave – Generous entitlement up to 40.5 days a year, with carry over possible and guaranteed time-off for Christmas.
- Pension - Employer Contribution of 15% in a Personal Pension Plan and employee contribution flexibility.
- Self-managed hours and Flexible Working – option to manage and spread your working time in line with organisational needs to create a healthy work life balance.
Laboratory and Field Assistant employer: The James Hutton Institute
Contact Detail:
The James Hutton Institute Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Laboratory and Field Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities of the role. Understanding tasks like collecting environmental samples and conducting laboratory analyses will help you speak confidently about your relevant experience during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Research The James Hutton Institute and its current projects. Being knowledgeable about their work in climate change and biodiversity loss will show your genuine interest and commitment to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your hands-on experience with laboratory procedures and fieldwork. Highlight any specific techniques or equipment you've used that relate to the job, as this will demonstrate your practical skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to talk about your teamwork and communication skills. Since you'll be working in a supportive team environment, sharing examples of how you've collaborated effectively in the past can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Laboratory and Field Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the responsibilities of the Laboratory and Field Assistant role. Emphasise any laboratory procedures, fieldwork experience, and data management skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, clearly outline why you are suitable for the position. Mention your enthusiasm for environmental research and how your background fits the key responsibilities, such as handling environmental samples and maintaining monitoring equipment.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: If you have an HNC qualification or equivalent experience, make sure to mention it prominently. Also, include any certifications like Emergency First Aid at Work, as these are beneficial for the role.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial in scientific roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at The James Hutton Institute
✨Know Your Role
Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities of a Laboratory and Field Assistant. Understand the importance of tasks like collecting environmental samples and conducting laboratory analyses, as well as the significance of health and safety protocols.
✨Showcase Relevant Experience
Be prepared to discuss your HNC qualification or any equivalent work experience. Highlight specific examples where you've handled environmental samples or used Microsoft Word and Excel effectively in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
The James Hutton Institute values teamwork. Share experiences that showcase your ability to work collaboratively, especially in fieldwork or laboratory settings. Emphasise your enthusiasm for contributing to important environmental research.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the organisation. Inquire about the types of projects you might be involved in or how the team approaches challenges in environmental research. This shows your genuine interest in the position.
