Lab Technician

Laboratory Technician Location: Wilton Site, Redcar
Shift Pattern: 2 Days, 2 Nights, 6 Days Off (12-hour shifts)

Job Purpose The Laboratory Technician is responsible for carrying out analytical testing of raw materials, intermediates, finished products, utilities, and environmental samples to ensure compliance with quality specifications, customer requirements, and site standards.

The role supports safe and efficient manufacturing operations by providing accurate and timely laboratory results while maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and housekeeping.
Key Responsibilities
Perform routine and non-routine laboratory analysis on raw materials, process streams, and finished polyester products.
Operate, calibrate, and maintain laboratory equipment including GC, titration systems, viscometers, moisture analysers, and other analytical instrumentation. (removed spectrometer and HPLC)
Accurately record, verify, and report test results through laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and other reporting tools.
Monitor product quality and communicate out-of-specification results promptly to operational and production teams.
Conduct environmental, utility, and process control testing in accordance with site procedures.
Prepare laboratory reagents, standards, and samples following approved methodologies.
Participate in equipment troubleshooting and support continuous improvement initiatives within the laboratory.
Ensure compliance with ISO standards, quality management systems, and site procedures.
Maintain laboratory housekeeping standards and ensure work areas remain clean, organised, and safe.
Support laboratory investigations, root cause analysis, and corrective actions where required.
Participate in proficiency testing, quality audits, and laboratory performance improvement activities.
Assist in the development and review of laboratory procedures, risk assessments, and work instructions. Health, Safety & Environmental Responsibilities
Comply with all Alpek Polyester safety policies, procedures, and permit-to-work requirements.
Follow COSHH assessments and safe handling procedures for chemicals and laboratory reagents.
Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.
Identify and report hazards, near misses, and unsafe conditions.
Support the site's commitment to environmental compliance and sustainable operations.
Actively contribute to a positive safety culture and participate in safety meetings and initiatives. Skills and Experience Essential
Qualification in Chemistry, Analytical Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline (minimum HNC/HND, NVQ Level 3, or equivalent).
Experience working within a laboratory environment, preferably in a chemical, petrochemical, polymer, or manufacturing industry.
Strong attention to detail and ability to produce accurate analytical results.
Good understanding of laboratory health and safety requirements.
Competent IT skills, including Microsoft Office applications.
Ability to work effectively within a shift team and independently when required.
Excellent communication and organisational skills. Desirable
Experience with polyester, polymer, chemical, or process manufacturing industries.
Knowledge of quality management systems and ISO standards.
Experience using Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).
Familiarity with analytical techniques such as GC, autotitration, DSC, and wet chemistry methods. (removed HPLC, ICP and FTIR)
Understanding of statistical process control and data trending. Personal Attributes
Strong commitment to safety and quality.
Reliable and dependable with a positive attitude.
Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
Flexible approach to work and shift patterns.
Ability to remain focused and make sound decisions during night shifts and busy operational periods.
Team player with a proactive approach to continuous improvement