Laboratory Supervisor - Microbiology

We have an opportunity to join a life sciences company which provides a unique range of analytical testing services to clients across multiple industries. 
The Group believes it is the world leader in food, environment, pharmaceutical and cosmetics products testing and in agro science CRO services. 
It is also one of the global independent market leaders in certain testing and laboratory services for genomics, discovery pharmacology, forensics, CDMO, advanced material sciences and for supporting clinical studies. 
In addition, it is one of the leading global emerging players in speciality clinical diagnostic testing.

In 2018, the company generated 4.2 billion Euro pro forma turnover, from 800 laboratories across 47 countries and employs about 45,000 staff.

JOB DESCRIPTION
This role is working Monday to Friday on alternating shift patterns of Monday and Tuesday 2pm to 10 pm, Wednesday to Friday 12 noon to 8 pm. Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm.

The Role

• Handling of reference cultures and preparation of working cultures for Quality Control purposes.
• Assisting with preparation and Quality Control processes of microbiological growth medium.
• Assisting with the setting up of and participation in the relevant external proficiency testing schemes for staff.
• Assisting with the spiking, setting up of and participation in the internal quality control schemes for staff.
• Assisting with supervision and mentoring of a team of laboratory analysts in the documented laboratory methodology.
• Working alongside Laboratory supervisors and deputising for in the absence of Laboratory Management.
• Plate reading, result interpretation and entry into LIMS, as well as providing training in this area for staff.
• Carrying out and training of staff for confirmation tests on suspect pathogen isolates
• Recording and reporting of results
• Assisting with ordering and stock control of all laboratory media and supplies.
• Assisting with the calibration of laboratory thermometers and thermocouples and ensuring that calibration is carried out within required timescales.
• Quality Control of microbiological test kits such as Staphytect and API strips.
• Ensure own knowledge of laboratory methods and procedures is up to date.
• Ensure all microbiology laboratory technicians and laboratory assistants are trained and signed off as competent before working unsupervised.
• Ensure competency data is in place to support sign off as competent.
• Carrying out and training of staff for confirmation tests on suspect pathogen isolates
• Ensure microbiology laboratory staff are retrained in a timely manner when methodology changes
• Ensure the microbiology laboratory has an up to date training matrix.
• Reporting any non-conforming issues to the Microbiology Laboratory Management
• Ensure completion of all relevant checks in accordance with daily duties, e.g. media records, pipettor weight checks etc.
• Ensuring the requirements of laboratory accreditation are met at all times and assisting in maintenance of the Quality System
• Participation in Laboratory Continuous Improvement Team meetings
• Assisting with laboratory audits conducted by external agencies e.g. UKAS, customers or retailers.
• Participation in laboratory external proficiency and internal quality control schemes
• Liaison with sub-contractors, visitors to site for maintenance/calibration of equipment etc.
• Assisting with implementation of continual improvement of laboratory operation.

Requirements

• Minimum of HND in biological sciences (or equivalent) is essential
• Experience in a food testing laboratory
• Good communication skills
• Excellent organisational ability
• Effective leadership skills
• High level of attention to detail

Would suit an organised people person that likes a rural lifestyle or is willing to commute from Edinburgh.

Indicative Salary Range: £19950 - 21000

KPI Recruitment Ltd is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

All candidates registering with KPI Recruitment Ltd. will need to provide proof of identity, and evidence of any experience, training and qualifications our client considers necessary for their position.