Job Category: Public HealthJob Description:Salary £40,778 - £46,142 per annum | Permanent, Full time 37 hours per week | PrestonAre you a skilled Analytical Chemist looking for a new challenge? Join our Scientific Services team at the Preston Laboratory and contribute to safeguarding public health through expert chemical analysis of food, feed and environmental samples.As a Senior Chemist, you will:
Lead a team of technical staff in delivering a full range of analytical chemistry services.
Manage complex workflows and ensure compliance with statutory, regulatory, and professional standards.
Undertake analysis of food and feed samples in line with Food Safety Act 1990 & Agriculture Act 1970.
Undertake chemical analysis of potable and waste waters, supporting enforcement and regulatory processes.
Support the Principal Officer in planning and delivering projects and service improvements.
Deliver training and mentorship to junior colleagues and contribute to continuous professional development across the team.
What we're looking for:
A degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Food Science or a related discipline, with significant experience in a similar role.
A minimum of five years' experience working in an analytical chemistry laboratory, preferably within the food sector, with progressive responsibility in increasingly senior roles.
Knowledge of the principles and underpinning legislation of analytical chemistry including the Food Safety Act 1990 and the Agricultural Act 1970.
Demonstrable understanding of the application of the principles of analytical chemistry, including wet chemistry techniques and molecular techniques such as ELISA and PCR.
Experience of managing staff and resources, including HR procedures and budgeting.
Demonstrable understanding of UKAS accreditation requirements.
If you would like an informal conversation about this role, please contact Amy Calderbank,Closing date: 22/09/2025 Interviews: 01/10/2025Why join us?By joining Lancashire County Council, you can shape the career path that is right for you with the opportunity to gain personal and professional qualifications, coaching and mentoring - Lancashire County Council really is the place where you can have the career you've always wanted.In return for your passion and expertise, we also offer a generous benefits package which includes:
A competitive salary and Local Government Pension Scheme with generous employer contributions and optional Additional Voluntary Contributions.
A great holiday entitlement of 26 days annual leave, which rises with length of service. You will also be entitled to 8 Bank Holidays, 2 additional statutory Bank Holidays, and have the option to buy additional leave each year.
Our staff discount scheme in partnership with Vivup allowing you to access discounts with a range of UK retailers, saving on everything from weekly food shops to white goods and cars.
Please ensure you have uploaded and attached your supporting statement to evidence how you meet the criteria for the role. The panel may be unable to shortlist you for interview without this evidence.
