At a Glance
- Tasks: Support scientists in a dynamic lab environment, ensuring smooth operations and safety.
- Company: Join Unilever, a global FMCG leader with iconic brands like Dove and Persil.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, free onsite parking, and access to staff discounts.
- Why this job: Be part of a cutting-edge R&D team making a real impact in product development.
- Qualifications: Experience in laboratory coordination and strong organisational skills required.
- Other info: Enjoy a vibrant workplace with clubs, catering options, and a picturesque setting.
The predicted salary is between 31205 - 36000 £ per year.
Manpower are currently seeking an interim Laboratory & Pilot Plant Operations Coordinator to work with our global FMCG client Unilever, renowned for brands such as Dove, Sure, Persil, and Simple. The position is based at our client's scientific Research & Development facility in Port Sunlight Village, Wirral, easily accessible by train and car. This is a full-time temporary role to run until the end of July 2026, requiring 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Compensation for this role is competitive, paying between £31,205-£36,000 per annum, pro rata, depending upon experience.
As part of Unilever's ongoing initiative within the Port Sunlight R&D laboratories to improve efficiencies, a new Operational Excellence Team has been created. The role of this team is to support the day-to-day activities of scientists working in our labs and pilot plants and to ensure a safe, efficient and well-maintained facility. The team will focus on the implementation of new and optimised processes with a view to driving continual improvement.
The Laboratory Operational Coordinator role provides a range of support services to the Port Sunlight R&D scientific and engineering community. As an ideal candidate, you'll have a sharp awareness of laboratory operational requirements to ensure maximum productivity and be skilled in laboratory processes, e.g. formulation, characterisation and performance testing etc. Additionally, you'll display a proven ability to follow protocols and processes for efficient operations in a laboratory environment.
Key Accountabilities- Deliver front line technical support to lab/pilot plant users regarding ways of working, set up of facilities and immediate needs/enquiries.
- Deliver to point of use in laboratories material (chemicals) and associated ancillaries as appropriate.
- Maintain laboratory safety and housekeeping standards in accordance with our established safe working procedures.
- Ensure stock levels of raw materials, consumables and PPE are maintained in core areas.
- Coordinate with third party service providers to ensure goods inwards are correctly logged on LIMs.
- Maintain raw material and equipment information dossiers e.g. SDS, COAs, equipment passports etc.
- Decanting and weighing of raw materials for lab and pilot plant scientists.
- Experienced laboratory/scientific facilities coordinator and/or has pilot plant experience.
- Experience of chemical dispensing and handling, including familiarity with laboratory safety protocols and chemical handling procedures.
- Customer facing experience.
- Demonstrates confidence and competence in a laboratory environment and is comfortable handling associated tasks and equipment.
- Exceptional organisational, time management and strong communication skills.
- Proficient IT skills e.g. Microsoft tools (Excel, Word). LIMS, Power BI & Power Apps would be advantageous.
- Free onsite parking
- Staff shop discounted products
- Working in state-of-the-art laboratory and pilot plant facilities
- 5 mins walk to train station serving Liverpool & Chester
- 20-minute drive from Liverpool city centre/30-minutes' drive from Chester
- Disabled parking
- In the heart of picturesque Port Sunlight village
- Several site clubs available to join covering a range of topics including Book Club, Running, Choir, Pool, Genealogy and much more.
- Three catering outlets providing a range of hot and cold food and drinks daily.
- A range of vending machines and cold-water dispensers around the site accessible throughout the day.
Laboratory & Pilot Plant Operations Coordinator employer: Vrieservice
Contact Detail:
Vrieservice Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Laboratory & Pilot Plant Operations Coordinator
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company culture! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Unilever and their values. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions related to laboratory operations and your experience. We can even help you with mock interviews to boost your confidence before the big day.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past experiences that highlight your organisational and communication skills. Think about times when you improved processes or handled challenges in a lab setting.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a nice touch that can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Laboratory & Pilot Plant Operations Coordinator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Laboratory & Pilot Plant Operations Coordinator role. Highlight your relevant experience in laboratory operations and any specific skills that match the job description, like chemical handling or customer-facing roles.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role at Unilever. Mention your passion for operational excellence and how your background aligns with their goals in the R&D environment.
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to showcase your IT skills, especially if you’re familiar with tools like LIMS or Power BI. These are key for the role, so make sure they stand out in your application!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, so don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Vrieservice
✨Know Your Lab Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your laboratory processes, especially formulation and performance testing. Be ready to discuss your previous experiences in a lab environment and how you've handled operational challenges. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but can apply it practically.
✨Safety First!
Since safety is paramount in any lab, be prepared to talk about your understanding of laboratory safety protocols. Share specific examples of how you've maintained safety standards in past roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to creating a safe working environment.
✨Show Off Your Organisational Skills
The role requires exceptional organisational and time management skills. Think of instances where you successfully coordinated tasks or managed multiple priorities in a lab setting. Highlighting these experiences will help you stand out as someone who can keep things running smoothly.
✨Get Familiar with Tech Tools
Familiarise yourself with relevant IT tools like Microsoft Excel and LIMS. If you have experience with Power BI or Power Apps, make sure to mention it! Being tech-savvy can give you an edge, so don’t shy away from discussing your proficiency with these tools during the interview.