Team Leader – Microbiology
We are looking for an experienced and motivated Team Leader – Microbiology to join our laboratory team in Sittingbourne. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with strong microbiology expertise and proven leadership skills to play a key role in delivering high‑quality analytical services within a fast‑paced laboratory environment.
Role Details
* Days Per Week: 4 on 4 off (9am to 9pm)
* Contract: Permanent and Full Time
* Annual Salary Range: £29,366 plus £2000 Location Allowance
* Hiring Manager: Marcin Kruk
* Closing Date: Thursday 28th May 2026
Day to Day Responsibilities
* Organise and manage daily team workloads to ensure business targets and turnaround times are achieved
* Monitor laboratory workflows and systems to ensure testing is completed efficiently and within client timeframes
* Oversee sample registration and ensure appropriate tests, methods, media, and dilutions are selected
* Coordinate routine Quality Management activities and ensure completion within scheduled deadlines
* Manage retests and additional testing on retained samples within required timescales
* Communicate delays, issues, or risks impacting turnaround times to management and clients where necessary
* Support the laboratory management team with result approvals and out‑of‑specification reporting
* Identify opportunities for process improvements, operational efficiencies, and new equipment implementation
* Monitor attendance, timekeeping, training, and team performance, escalating concerns where appropriate
* Maintain training records and ensure team competency supports operational flexibility and resource coverage
* Deliver training, coaching, and ongoing support to team members
* Ensure all laboratory activities comply with HSE, Quality, Regulatory, Accreditation, and internal company standards
* Promote a positive safety culture by reporting incidents, near misses, and unsafe practices, while supporting continuous safety improvement initiatives
Qualifications and Essential Skills
* Previous laboratory experience within a microbiology environment
* Strong theoretical and practical understanding of microbiological analysis, methodologies, and procedures
* Excellent organisational and workload prioritisation skills
* Strong written and verbal communication skills
* High level of accuracy and attention to detail
* Ability to work independently and use initiative in a fast‑paced environment
* Competent in Microsoft Office applications and Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)
* Minimum of 5 GCSEs (or equivalent), including Science, English, and Mathematics
* Understanding of ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 17025:2017 quality standards and the importance of maintaining high‑quality analytical data
* Strong awareness of laboratory health and safety requirements, including PPE compliance and safe working practices
* Commitment to continuous learning, professional development, and supporting team development
Benefits
* Annual Leave commencing at 20 days (rising to 24)
* Ability to Buy annual leave
* Enhanced Company Sick Pay Scheme
* Salary Progression Scheme based on technical and behavioural competencies
* ‘Celebrating Success’ Recognition Awards
* Perkbox membership providing access to discount vouchers and wellness hub
* Learning/study support
* Group Personal Pension Plan
* Car Parking on‑site
Equal Opportunity Employer
ALS is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment where the strengths and perspectives of each employee are both recognised and valued. ALS also welcomes applications from people with all levels of ability. Reasonable adjustments to support candidates throughout the recruitment process are available upon request.
Eligibility
To be eligible to work at ALS you must be a Citizen or Permanent Resident of the country you are applying for, or otherwise hold or be able to obtain a valid working visa.
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