Overview
Senior Chemist | Analytical Services | Full Time | Preston
Join the Scientific Services team at the Preston Laboratory as a Senior Chemist, contributing to safeguarding public health through expert chemical analysis of food, feed and environmental samples.
Responsibilities
* Lead a team of technical staff in delivering a full range of analytical chemistry services.
* Manage complex workflows and ensure compliance with statutory, regulatory, and professional standards.
* Undertake analysis of food and feed samples in line with the Food Safety Act 1990 and the Agriculture Act 1970.
* Undertake chemical analysis of potable and waste waters, supporting enforcement and regulatory processes.
* Support the Principal Officer in planning and delivering projects and service improvements.
* Deliver training and mentorship to junior colleagues and contribute to continuous professional development across the team.
Requirements
* A degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Food Science or a related discipline, with significant experience in a similar role.
* A minimum of five years’ experience working in an analytical chemistry laboratory, preferably within the food sector, with progressive responsibility in increasingly senior roles.
* Knowledge of the principles and underpinning legislation of analytical chemistry including the Food Safety Act 1990 and the Agricultural Act 1970.
* Demonstrable understanding of the application of analytical chemistry principles, including wet chemistry techniques and molecular techniques such as ELISA and PCR.
* Experience of managing staff and resources, including HR procedures and budgeting.
* Demonstrable understanding of UKAS accreditation requirements.
If you would like an informal conversation about this role, please contact Amy Calderbank at Amy.Calderbank@lancashire.gov.uk.
Closing date: 22/09/2025 | Interviews: 01/10/2025
Why join us?
By joining Lancashire County Council, you can shape your career path with opportunities to gain personal and professional qualifications, coaching and mentoring.
We offer a generous benefits package including:
* A competitive salary and Local Government Pension Scheme with generous employer contributions and optional Additional Voluntary Contributions.
* 26 days annual holiday entitlement (rises with length of service) plus 8 Bank Holidays, 2 additional statutory Bank Holidays, and optional additional leave purchase each year.
* Staff discount scheme through Vivup offering discounts with a range of UK retailers.
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.
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