Role Purpose
Impact Solutions is an accredited testing and research laboratory. As a Graduate Test Technician you will deliver high‑quality, traceable test work for customers, contribute to method development and continuous improvement, and help uphold our ISO/IEC 17025 quality system. You will carry out many of the same duties as our laboratory technicians but with the additional responsibility expected of a new graduate—owning test work packages, analysing and interpreting results, writing customer‑facing reports, and supporting junior team members.
Key Responsibilities
1) Laboratory Operations
* Receive, log, and manage test samples; ensure chain of custody and accurate data entry.
* Plan, set up, and execute test programmes in line with work plans, standards, and SOPs.
* Prepare samples for testing (e.g., machining, moulding, cutting) and select appropriate fixtures and conditions.
* Operate specialist test equipment/instrumentation for data capture; perform routine verification checks and basic troubleshooting.
* Maintain complete, accurate, and legible records (raw data, worksheets, observations, deviations).
* Housekeeping to the highest standards; complete daily checks and rota tasks.
2) Quality & Compliance (ISO/IEC 17025)
* Work within the laboratory management system and contribute to its upkeep.
* Support sample reception, contract review, and job file creation to ensure scope, acceptance criteria and reporting needs are clear before work starts.
* Keep equipment records up to date; coordinate routine calibration, maintenance, and servicing.
* Follow approved procedures/SOPs; draft or update SOPs and work instructions where needed.
* Perform and document quality control/verification tests; support internal audits, corrective and preventive actions (CAPA), and management of change.
* Adhere to SHE requirements (e.g., risk assessments, COSHH); stop and escalate unsafe conditions.
3) Technical Analysis & Reporting
* Analyse data using appropriate statistics; identify anomalies and root causes.
* Prepare clear, customer‑ready technical reports that present methods, results and conclusions supported by evidence.
* Communicate progress, issues and risks proactively to the Mechanical and Materials Engineering Lead and stakeholders.
* Contribute to method validation, inter‑laboratory comparisons and uncertainty evaluations.
4) Project Delivery & Customer Focus
* Break down work into tasks with realistic durations and dependencies; self‑manage to meet deadlines.
* Liaise with customers to clarify requirements, agree test plans and discuss results.
* Support estimating by providing time, consumables and equipment inputs for quotations.
* Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, cost, safety and quality (5S/Lean mindset).
5) Teamwork & Development
* Participate in training, method transfers and cross‑training across test areas.
* Contribute to a positive, respectful and inclusive team culture.
Person Specification
Essential
* BEng/BSc (or equivalent) in Materials, Mechanical, Chemical or related engineering/science discipline.
* Hands‑on laboratory experience (industrial placement, final‑year project or similar).
* Ability to follow standards and SOPs precisely and document work to a traceable standard.
* Competent with data analysis and scientific/technical writing for external audiences.
* Strong organisation and attention to detail; able to prioritise and deliver to deadlines.
* Working knowledge of safe systems of work (risk assessments, COSHH) and good housekeeping.
* Clear, confident communication with colleagues and customers.
Desirable
* Experience in an ISO/IEC 17025‑accredited laboratory.
* Exposure to materials/product testing, sample preparation and use of test instrumentation.
* Experience drafting or revising SOPs/work instructions.
* Basic understanding of measurement uncertainty and method validation.
* Continuous improvement mindset (e.g., 5S, Lean).
* Full UK driving license.
Training & Progression
* Structured onboarding covering laboratory safety, quality, methods and instrumentation.
* Role‑specific competency sign‑off; opportunities to specialise across test areas.
* Support for professional development (e.g., CPD, relevant courses/qualifications).
* Clear progression pathway.
Right to work: Candidates must have the right to work in the UK.
How to apply
Please apply via Indeed by sending your CV and a short cover note outlining relevant laboratory experience and availability. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to complete a technical exercise followed by competency‑based interview.
*This description outlines the core purpose and responsibilities of the role. It is not exhaustive, and duties may evolve with business needs.*
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £25,000.00-£26,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Company pension
* Cycle to work scheme
* On-site parking
* Private medical insurance
Work Location: In person