Manpower is currently looking for a Laboratory Assistant to work with our global FMCG client, renowned for brands such as Magnum, Carte d’Or, Cornetto, Walls, and become an integral part of their fast-paced FMCG environment.
The position is based at our client's Research & Development facility, at Colworth Science Park, in Sharnbrook, Bedfordshire (MK44), accessible by car. It also houses our client's global centre of excellence in safety and sustainability sciences.
This is a full-time temporary role, for 3 months requiring 37.50 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Compensation for this role is competitive, paying up to £27,200 per annum, pro rata, depending upon experience.
RESPONSIBILITIES
As a Lab Assistant you will work closely with a Technical Project Leader to create lab and pilot‑scale products.
Key responsibilities include:
* Mix making and prototyping at lab scale under guidance from the Technical Project Leader
* Supporting formulation development by accurately weighing and preparing, recipes during lab and pilot trials
* Operates pilot plant and lab equipment safely and confidently (e.g. freezers, mixers), escalating issues and supporting basic troubleshooting under guidance from the Technical Project Leader
* Setting up, cleaning, and maintaining lab and pilot equipment in line with site procedures
* Supporting small‑scale pilot plant trials under guidance from the Technical Project Leader
* Accurately records formulations, process conditions, and observations
* Inventory management and ordering of materials
* Organising shipments and trials under guidance from the Technical Project Leader
* Works to high standards of food safety, hygiene, and health & safety in lab and pilot environments, following site procedures
* Works collaboratively with pilot plant colleagues to support successful trials
SKILLS, COMPETENCIES & BEHAVIOURS
The right candidate should demonstrate the following skills:
* Willing to take responsibility for assigned workstreams with growing independence, while collaborating as a team player when necessary
* Working knowledge of Microsoft tools, including Excel
* Clear written and verbal communication
* Approaches tasks in a rigorous, organised, and methodical way
* Is able to follow verbal and written instructions closely
EXPERIENCE
* Prior experience in a food manufacturing, lab, pilot plant, or product development environment would be beneficial but not essential
* Exposure to food, ice cream, or frozen dessert processes is an advantage but not essential
TECHNICAL SKILLS
Must Have
* Basic knowledge and experience of using Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook)
* Basic understanding of prototyping
* Experience of working with regulatory information and food background would be highly beneficial.
* Inventory Management
Nice to Have
* 3-5 years of experience in the food industry, preferably in product development, processing, and/or project management. Experience with SAP PLM/Minerva, specification creation and approval process, demonstrated knowledge/experience in Cooking Aids technology, and good understanding of Supply Chain.
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