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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 and a clean UK 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.
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Laboratory and Field Assistant, Aberdeen
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Client:
The James Hutton Institute
Location:
Job Category:
Other
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EU work permit required:
Yes
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Job Reference:
93167e4e260a
Job Views:
3
Posted:
29.06.2025
Expiry Date:
13.08.2025
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Job Description:
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). Vaccinations will be provided where necessary.
- 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. Providing access to professional counsellors, psychologists, and work-life consultants available to help and support individuals in tackling all types of 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.
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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 latest research and developments in environmental sciences, particularly in areas like water quality and wastewater management. This knowledge will not only help you during the interview but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the environmental and biogeochemical sciences sector. Attend relevant workshops, seminars, or conferences to meet potential colleagues and learn more about the work being done at The James Hutton Institute.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your hands-on experience with laboratory procedures and fieldwork. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully collected and processed environmental samples in previous roles or academic projects.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel by preparing a sample data set or report that highlights your ability to accurately record and collate data. This practical demonstration can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Laboratory and Field Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the key responsibilities and qualifications required for the Laboratory and Field Assistant position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that clearly outlines your suitability for the role. Mention specific skills such as your experience with environmental samples, laboratory procedures, and data recording. Show enthusiasm for contributing to environmental research.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, emphasise any previous work or academic experiences related to laboratory and fieldwork. Include details about your HNC qualification or equivalent experience, and your competency in using Microsoft Word and Excel.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, thoroughly proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects attention to detail, which is crucial for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at The James Hutton Institute
✨Know Your Role
Familiarise yourself with the specific responsibilities of a Laboratory and Field Assistant. Understand the key tasks such as collecting environmental samples and conducting laboratory analyses, so you can discuss how your skills align with these requirements.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Prepare to talk about any previous experience you have in laboratory settings or fieldwork. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've handled similar tasks, especially those related to environmental science or data collection.
✨Demonstrate Safety Awareness
Since the role involves handling environmental samples and following health and safety protocols, be prepared to discuss your understanding of safety practices. Mention any relevant training or certifications, like Emergency First Aid at Work, to show your commitment to safety.
✨Show Enthusiasm for Environmental Research
Express your passion for environmental issues and research. The James Hutton Institute is focused on tackling global challenges, so sharing your motivation for contributing to sustainable practices will resonate well with the interviewers.
