Scientist (Organic Analysis) - Warrington

Reed Talent Solutions in Partnership with United Utilities

Are you an experienced scientist with a passion for analytical chemistry and laboratory excellence? Reed Talent Solutions are proud to be working in partnership with United Utilities to recruit a Scientist (Organic Analysis) to join their highly automated laboratory team in Warrington.

This is an exciting opportunity to work within a UKAS-accredited laboratory, analysing potable water, wastewater, and trade effluent samples using advanced chromatography and mass spectrometry techniques.

Position Details

• Location: Warrington
• Hours: Monday to Friday, 10:00am - 6:00pm
• Additional Requirements: One Saturday per month and participation in standby/call-out rota once fully trained
• Pay Rate: £18.08 per hour PAYE or £23.30 per hour Umbrella

About the Role

As a Scientist, you will play a key role in delivering high-quality analytical services that support United Utilities' commitment to water quality and environmental compliance. Working within a fast-paced laboratory environment, you will utilise a range of analytical techniques while supporting continuous improvement, troubleshooting, and technical problem-solving activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyse potable water, wastewater, and trade effluent samples for organic contaminants.
• Operate and maintain chromatography and mass spectrometry instrumentation.
• Troubleshoot analytical and equipment issues to minimise downtime.
• Support laboratory workload planning and efficient workflow management.
• Investigate anomalous analytical results and support quality control activities.
• Participate in continuous improvement projects and technical developments.
• Support the implementation of new equipment and analytical techniques.
• Carry out routine equipment maintenance and coordinate repairs where necessary.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory quality systems and health & safety procedures.
• Work in accordance with ISO 17025 and other relevant regulatory requirements.

Essential Requirements

• NVQ/QCF Level 3 qualification in Chemistry or a related scientific discipline.
• Minimum 3 years' laboratory experience within a scientific environment.
• Recent hands-on laboratory experience across a variety of analytical techniques.
• Experience using chromatography and/or mass spectrometry techniques.
• Good understanding of ISO 17025, ISO 5667, and related regulatory standards.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Competent IT user with experience of Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel, and Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).
• Evidence of Continuing Professional Development (CPD).

Desirable

• Membership of a professional scientific body such as the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC).
• Experience working within a UKAS-accredited laboratory environment.

What We're Looking For

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented scientist who can work both independently and as part of a collaborative team. You'll be proactive, adaptable, and committed to maintaining the highest standards of scientific excellence while delivering accurate and reliable analytical results.

Apply Today

If you have a Level 3 Chemistry qualification, strong laboratory experience, and are looking to develop your career within a leading utilities organisation, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply now through Reed and take the next step in your scientific career with United Utilities.