Laboratory Technician REPORTING TO Laboratory Manager RESPONSIBLE FOR This role has no employees reporting to it. MAIN PURPOSE OF JOB This role impacts the success of the company through the selection, preparation and analysis of samples to ensure ongoing customer support and satisfaction. The role is responsible for UKAS-approved methods and in-house methods where full competence has been obtained. PRINCIPLE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The role will train to ensure: Selection, sorting and preparation of samples Chemical and physical analysis of feeding stuffs and raw materials Accurate entry of sample details into LIMS All raw materials and finished feed samples are tested for salmonella / enterobacteriaceae in line with company procedures and schedules Mill samples are obtained, retained and recorded appropriately Accurate selection and grinding of finished feed, raw material and complaint samples for analysis Samples are processed through NIR as required Chemical analysis is carried out as required, including: moisture, salt, FFA, protein, oil, ash, fibre, minerals and heavy metals Physical tests are carried out as required, including: % fines, Holmens, density, Kahl, sieve and fractions Any suspect results or materials are reported to the Line Manager Accurate production of daily raw material exception reports Active participation in method development Checking of analytical data Compliance with and support for all company policies Personal training and development needs are identified with supervisor and all relevant training is attended All health & safety procedures are adhered to in the laboratory and mill All housekeeping activities are adhered to Induction, company training and appraisal are supported as required Any other duties are carried out as appropriate PERSONNEL SPECIFICATION JOB TITLE Laboratory Technician REPORTING TO Laboratory Manager RESPONSIBLE FOR This role has no employees reporting to it. MAIN PURPOSE OF JOB This role will impact on the success of the company through the selection, preparation and analysis of samples to ensure ongoing customer support and satisfaction, using UKAS-approved and in-house methods where competent. CRITERIA Personal Skills (Essential) Able to communicate effectively within the team Able to plan and work to deadlines Capable of solving problems Self-motivated Capable of working on own initiative Capable of working in a team environment Education & Knowledge Essential: 5 GCSE passes at Grade C or above including English, Mathematics and Science; at least 2 A-Level passes at Grade C or above in Mathematics and Science Desirable: Bachelors degree Experience Essential: Experience using Windows-based computer packages; experience in a laboratory environment Desirable: Experience using a LIMS system; experience in nutritional test methods Circumstances A flexible approach to work is required This role will require moving sample boxes of up to 20 kg COMPETENCE MODEL FOR ROLE JOB TITLE Laboratory Technician REPORTING TO Technical Manager RESPONSIBLE FOR This role has no employees reporting to it. MAIN PURPOSE OF JOB This role will impact on the success of the company through the selection, preparation and analysis of samples to ensure ongoing customer support and satisfaction, using UKAS-approved and in-house accredited methods where fully competent. Competence Positive Indicators / Negative Indicators Communication Positive: Clear and understandable verbal and written communication, involves others as required, seeks clarification Negative: Gives confused or inconsistent messages, does not listen carefully, rarely involves others Planning & Organisation Positive: Objectives are met, time frames are adhered to, others know what to do and when, can see the big picture and long-term opportunities Negative: Objectives not met, struggles to meet time frames, colleagues unsure what is happening, fails to think about consequences Problem Solving Positive: Applies a logical approach, learns lessons and implements improvements Negative: Haphazard approach to problems, repeats the same mistakes Self Motivation & Initiative Positive: Overcomes negativity, shows determination to succeed, sets goals above those required Negative: Lacks enthusiasm, rarely initiates tasks, doubts own capability, does only what is necessary Team Working Positive: Participates fully, builds team relations, encourages and cooperates with others, contributes ideas Negative: Fails to get involved, does not appreciate others views, is negative during activities, rarely contributes Perks of Thompsons The opportunity to work for a company ranked within the Top 10 of the Top 100 Companies in Northern Ireland. Remuneration Competitive salary Above statutory holiday entitlement Life assurance x4 Cycle to Work scheme Free secure onsite parking Enhanced employer pension at 6% Christmas vouchers Long service awards Competitive shift premiums Company uniform Training and career development opportunities Job security 150 years in business Company sick pay Enhanced maternity and paternity leave Paid retirement plan Health & Wellbeing Enhanced health care plan Annual flu vaccination Paid compassionate leave Paid medical appointments