At a Glance
- Tasks: Assess environmental laboratories to ensure compliance with pollution control standards.
- Company: Join UKAS, a leader in accreditation and quality assurance.
- Benefits: Enjoy remote work flexibility and the chance to enhance your career.
- Other info: This role is perfect for those looking to balance work with studies or other commitments.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on environmental standards while collaborating with industry experts.
- Qualifications: Experience in ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited labs and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Analytical Chemistry (Environmental) – Independent Contractor
Location: Remote (UK-based) with UK and potential international travel
Contract Type: Independent Contractor
About UKAS
UKAS is the UK’s National Accreditation Body, appointed by government to assess and accredit organisations that provide certification, testing, inspection, calibration and verification services. Our work underpins confidence in conformity assessment across the UK and internationally. We work with a wide range of independent technical experts who support our assessments on a contract basis.
The Role
We are looking for an experienced Analytical Chemistry Technical Assessor (Environmental Chemistry) to support assessments within the AFLA area. This is a part‑time, independent contractor role.
Technical Assessors play a pivotal role in the UKAS assessment process, providing the specialist expertise needed to carry out robust, evidence‑based assessments of ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited laboratories. The role involves reviewing technical competence, observing laboratory activities, and contributing to clear, high‑quality assessment reports.
This is a varied and rewarding opportunity to use your current, hands‑on technical knowledge to work with laboratories across the UK (and occasionally overseas), supporting confidence in environmental monitoring and continuous improvement against accreditation requirements.
Key Responsibilities
- Assess the technical competence of laboratories through on‑site, remote and desk‑based assessments.
- Review and evaluate analytical methods, validation data, equipment, staff competence and technical records.
- Observe practical laboratory activities and follow technical audit trails to conclusion.
- Assess compliance with ISO/IEC 17025:2017 and relevant sector schemes, particularly MCERTS and DWTS.
- Produce clear, objective and evidence‑based assessment reports in line with UKAS requirements.
- Work collaboratively with Lead Assessors, Assessment Managers and laboratory staff during assessments.
What We’re Looking For
We are specifically looking to strengthen technical coverage with assessors who have recent, hands‑on bench experience and up‑to‑date technical knowledge.
Essential Experience
- Recent practical experience (not solely managerial) within an ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited testing laboratory.
- Strong background in environmental analysis, including water, soil and/or air testing.
- Demonstrable experience in method development and/or method validation in the recent past.
- Sound understanding of internal and external quality control, data integrity and data performance checks.
- Practical knowledge of applicable regulatory and sector requirements.
Targeted Technical Skills
Core analytical techniques should include a combination of:
- Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS)
- Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS)
- High‑performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)
- Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP‑OES / ICP‑AES)
- Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP‑MS)
- Ion Chromatography (IC)
Additional Skills and Attributes
- In‑depth, current technical knowledge relevant to environmental and analytical chemistry.
- Experience supporting and developing the technical aspects of a laboratory quality system.
- Some experience of internal or external auditing of laboratory technical activities (desirable).
- Strong analytical judgement and attention to technical detail.
- Confident, professional communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with laboratory staff and management at all levels.
Typical Background
Successful applicants are likely to have a strong professional background within environmental or analytical chemistry testing laboratories, with a career history that demonstrates recent, hands‑on technical involvement rather than purely managerial responsibility.
This may include experience as a senior analyst, technical specialist, method development scientist, technical lead or similar role within an ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited laboratory, where maintaining technical competence and method validity formed a core part of the role.
Applicants must be able to demonstrate that their technical knowledge is current and actively applied, particularly in relation to environmental monitoring, analytical techniques and sector‑specific schemes such as MCERTS and DWTS.
Contract Details
- Contract type: Independent, self‑employed contractor
- Location: Remote, with UK‑wide coverage (occasional overseas work may arise)
- This role must be undertaken on an independent basis. Due to independence and impartiality requirements, it cannot be carried out alongside a full‑time employed role.
Full training will be provided to support you in becoming a UKAS Technical Assessor, including UKAS systems training, ISO/IEC 17025:2017 standard awareness and report‑writing to UKAS requirements.
Candidate Privacy Notice
https://www.ukas.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/UKAS-Candidate-Privacy-Notice.pdf
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Analytical Chemist - Technical Assessor employer: United Kingdom Accreditation Service
UKAS is an excellent employer that values diversity and fosters a culture of belonging, making it an ideal workplace for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment. With the flexibility of hybrid working and a commitment to employee growth, UKAS offers a supportive environment where your contributions are recognised and encouraged. Located in Staines Upon Thames, employees benefit from a collaborative work culture and the opportunity to be part of the UK's sole Accreditation Body, enhancing both personal and professional development.
Contact Details:
United Kingdom Accreditation Service Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Analytical Chemist - Technical Assessor
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with ISO/IEC 17025:2017 standards. Understanding these requirements will not only help you in the role but also demonstrate your commitment to quality and compliance during discussions with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the environmental chemistry field. Attend relevant webinars or industry events to connect with others who may have insights into the Technical Assessor role and can provide valuable advice or referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on the latest developments in environmental monitoring techniques and regulations. This knowledge will not only enhance your expertise but also position you as a knowledgeable candidate who is proactive about industry changes.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for potential interviews by practising how to articulate your experience with quality control processes and your understanding of laboratory standards. Being able to clearly communicate your skills will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Analytical Chemist - Technical Assessor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience in ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited laboratories. Emphasise your expertise in environmental chemistry and any relevant analytical techniques you've used.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter:In your cover letter, explain why you're interested in the Technical Assessor role and how your background aligns with the requirements. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your knowledge of pollution control standards and quality systems.
Showcase Relevant Skills:Clearly outline your interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders. Provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with laboratory staff and management in previous roles.
Highlight Continuous Learning:Mention any recent training or certifications related to environmental chemistry or ISO standards. This shows your commitment to staying updated in your field and enhances your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at United Kingdom Accreditation Service
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
Make sure to highlight your experience in ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited laboratories. Be prepared to discuss specific analytical techniques you've used for testing environmental samples, as well as any relevant projects that demonstrate your knowledge in monitoring water, soil, and air.
✨Understand Regulatory Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with UK standards and regulatory frameworks related to environmental chemistry. During the interview, be ready to explain how you have applied these regulations in your previous roles and how they impact laboratory operations.
✨Demonstrate Strong Interpersonal Skills
As a Technical Assessor, you'll need to communicate effectively with various stakeholders. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with laboratory staff and management, showcasing your ability to convey complex information clearly and concisely.
✨Prepare for Technical Discussions
Expect to engage in technical discussions about quality systems and assessment methodologies. Brush up on current industry standards and be ready to share your insights on innovative applications of ISO/IEC 17025:2017, as well as any experiences you've had with audits or quality control processes.
