Job Description

Salary £28,142 - £32,061 per annum | Full time, Permanent | Scientific Services | Preston

This role is not open to International Sponsorship

Make a Difference Through Science

Are you passionate about laboratory science and committed to delivering accurate, high-quality analytical results? Do you enjoy working in a fast-paced environment where attention to detail and technical expertise make a real difference?

At Lancashire County Council, our Scientific Services team provides a UKAS-accredited analytical service that supports public health, environmental protection, food safety and consumer protection. We work with internal Council services, local authorities and commercial customers, delivering trusted scientific analysis that helps safeguard communities across Lancashire and beyond.

We're looking for a motivated Analytical Services Officer to join our skilled and supportive laboratory team.

About the Role:

As an Analytical Services Officer, you'll provide technical and specialist analytical support within our Analytical Services Team, undertaking laboratory analysis in accordance with recognised quality standards, statutory requirements and accredited procedures.

Working within a UKAS-accredited laboratory environment, you'll perform routine analysis independently while supporting more complex analytical investigations under supervision. Your work will contribute directly to the delivery of accurate, reliable and timely scientific results for a range of customers and stakeholders.

This role offers an excellent opportunity to develop your scientific expertise across food chemistry, water analysis and microbiology while working alongside experienced professionals in a service committed to continuous improvement and quality excellence.

Job Description & Person Specification

What You'll Do:

As part of our Analytical Services Team, you will:

• Analyse food and water samples using chemistry and microbiological techniques in line with approved methods and procedures.
• Prepare laboratory reagents, standards and microbiological media.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records, quality documentation and electronic data systems, including LIMS.
• Apply quality control procedures and ensure analytical results meet required standards before reporting.
• Calibrate, maintain and troubleshoot laboratory equipment.
• Support environmental monitoring, quality assurance and UKAS accreditation activities.
• Contribute to method development, service improvements and the sharing of good laboratory practice.
• Support colleagues by sharing knowledge and promoting high standards of analytical practice.
• Maintain a safe laboratory environment, ensuring compliance with health and safety requirements, COSHH and safe systems of work.
• Participate in weekend working on a rota basis.

What We're Looking For:

We're seeking a scientifically minded individual who combines technical capability with a commitment to quality and customer service.

You'll ideally have:

• A Level 3 qualification (or equivalent) in a relevant scientific subject, or substantial practical experience gained within an analytical laboratory environment.
• Experience working with laboratory equipment, analytical systems and scientific software.
• Experience carrying out analytical testing using established methods and procedures.
• Knowledge of laboratory quality systems, quality control procedures and Good Laboratory Practice.
• Excellent attention to detail and a methodical approach to work.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to identify and investigate irregular results.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• The ability to organise, prioritise and adapt to changing workloads and service demands.

Why Join Us?

At Lancashire County Council, you'll be part of an organisation that is committed to making Lancashire the best place to live, work, visit and prosper. Guided by the Lancashire Mindset of Growth, Ownership, Optimism and Positive Impact, we empower our colleagues to develop, innovate and make a meaningful contribution every day.

In return, you'll have the opportunity to build your scientific career within a respected UKAS-accredited laboratory, develop new skills, contribute to service improvements and play an important role in delivering trusted scientific services that protect the public and support communities across Lancashire.

How to Apply

Please ensure you have uploaded and attached your supporting statement to evidence how you meet the criteria for the role. The panel may be unable to shortlist you for interview without this evidence.

For an informal chat please contact Amy Calderbank on Tel 01772 721660 or amy.calderbank@lancashire.gov.uk

Closing date for applications is Wednesday 23rd September

Interviews are scheduled to take place on Thursday 8th October

Local Government Reorganisation

The Government has confirmed that local government across Lancashire will be reorganised, with the current 15 councils being replaced by four new unitary councils covering North, South, East and West Lancashire from April 2028.

If you are successful in your application, you will initially join Lancashire County Council. However, as part of the planned transition, your employment will transfer to one of the new unitary councils from April 2028, subject to the implementation of the reorganisation and relevant employment legislation.

Throughout this period, our focus remains on delivering excellent services to our communities. By joining us now, you'll play an important role in shaping the future of local government and helping to build a strong new organisation that will serve residents for years to come.

In return Lancashire County Council offers a range of benefits, which can be found on LCC Vacancies website.

We reserve the right to close down a vacancy early, before the closing date, if we receive sufficient applications.