Technical Specialist

The Laboratory is highly automated and uses a combination of simple and complex techniques to provide an analytical service carried out in accordance with quality operating procedures. The analytical service meets the requirements of the ISO 17025 - General Requirements for the Competence of Testing and Calibration Laboratories, Drinking Water Testing Specification (DWTS), Monitoring Certification Scheme (Mcerts) and is also United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) accredited.The position is a fundamental role in the laboratory developing new and existing methodologies to enable us to meet operational and regulatory standards, including DWTS, MCERTS accreditation for the EA Operator Self Monitoring scheme and working towards the expanding regulatory sampling requirements associated with the Water Framework Directive. This role will ensure the laboratory has the correct technical expertise to meet current and upcoming legislation.The role requires a highly scientific and technically competent individual operating within a laboratory production environment, focusing on technical delivery and innovation, including validation and accreditation, analytical Quality Control, appraising and eliminating potential sources of error, erroneous result modification and inaccuracies which arise outside of the quality assurance process, sharing and evaluating best practice across teams and departments

What You Will Be Doing:

• Provide hands on technical support for all aspects of team methods* Take lead responsibility for validation and accreditation - including all aspects of method QA and drafting new methods, validation and accreditation* Provides detailed technical advice on all aspects of laboratory tests* Thorough understanding of all appropriate ISO standards, regulatory and customer requirements. Identification of potential non conformities before customer impact via thorough overview of reported results, routine technical updates, method reviews, fit for purpose equipment.* Technical troubleshooting and problem solving, including link to equipment suppliers* Assists in the delivery of Competent person and the deputy for the Technical Manager on technical matters* Understanding the laboratory's link to the customer - developing and maintaining methods to deliver best technical value What We Are Looking For

• Technically confident and competent - with recent practical laboratory skills across a variety of techniques* Good planning, problem solving and organisational skills, encompassing technical and planning issues, Essential communication, influencing and interpersonal skills, good understanding of Laboratory Health & Safety requirements* IT literate including the use of Word, Outlook, Excel and LIMS* Demonstration of Competent person status, including fully compliant CPD with the skills, up to date and relevant CPD, qualifications, professional competence and professional recognition or actively working towards it (Chartered Chemist) necessary to deputise for the Technical Manager* Good understanding of ISO 17025, ISO 5667 and all other related regulatory requirements* Minimum of 5 years laboratory experience And Degree or equivalent in a relevant scientific discipline in line with entry to Membership of a relevant scientific professional body such as the Royal Society of Chemistry or Society of BiologyOr10 years laboratory experience suitable to gain Membership entry to Royal Society of Chemistry or Society of Biology Additional informationA flexible approach to working hours is desirable.

• A generous annual leave package of 26 days, which increases to 30 days after four years of service (increases one day per year), in addition to 8 bank holidays
• A competitive pension scheme with up to 14% employer contribution, 21% combined, and life cover
• Up to 7.5% performance-related bonus scheme, as well as recognition awards for outstanding achievements
• A comprehensive healthcare plan through our company-funded scheme
• MyGymDiscounts - gym and wellness benefit that offers up to 25% off on gym memberships and digital fitness subscriptions
• Best Doctors
• Salary Finance
• Wealth at Work courses
• Deals and discounts
• EVolve Car Scheme
• Employee Assistance Plan
• Mental health first aiders
• ShareBuy
• MORE Choices flexible benefits
• Enhanced parental leave schemes

United Utilities' (UU) purpose is to deliver great water for a stronger, greener and healthier North West of England. We are committed to providing our services in a way that respects the environment, supports the economy, and benefits society. We value diversity, inclusion and innovation in our workplace, and we foster a culture where our people can grow, excel, and be themselves. We uphold our ethics, values and business model to fulfil our mission and, by setting clear goals and objectives, we create sustainable long-term value for our colleagues, customers and communities. Whether you work with a team that shares your vision or join a network of peers with similar interests, you will find a welcoming and supportive organisation to be part of. We've got a lot to offer. You'll be part of a thriving FTSE 100 company and will enjoy a range of core benefits that reflect your value and value contribution.