Laboratory Technician

Manpower are currently seeking an interim Laboratory Technician to work with our global FMCG client Unilever, renowned for iconic brands such as Magnum, Ben & Jerry's, Cornetto, and Solero, to become an integral part of their fast-paced FMCG ice cream manufacturing environment.
The position is based at Barnwood, Gloucester. This is a full-time temporary role until 31/08/2026, Hours of work will be Friday - Tuesday, 8.15am - 4.30pm (will include some Bank Holiday working).
Compensation for this role is competitive, paying between 27,000k - 29,000k per annum, pro rata, depending upon experience.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Main Purpose:
Working within a dynamic team, you will be primarily responsible for the microbiological analysis of mix and finished product samples coupled with investigations and reporting of results within the department and related manufacturing and production environments. Leadership and accountability are essential ensuring that tests and methods are performed to accreditation criteria.

Key responsibilities:
Microbiological analysis of mix, finished products, raw materials, water, swabs, and non-routine samples.
* Media preparation.
* Interpretation of results, suitable investigation, and production of reports.
* Adherence to COSHH.
* Use of relevant computer software programmes.
* Adherence to site safety standards.
* Compliance with site Quality standards and procedures.
* Lead, organise, and perform laboratory project work.
* Operation of all machinery in accordance with best practice operations.
* Organise and perform the calibration of all laboratory equipment and balances within the factory.
* Requesting samples from the cold store as and when required.
* Sending samples away for microbial and chemical analysis, recording results when received.
* Leading internal audits within the department and assisting FSSC22000 audits when required.
* Performing change controls on standard operating procedures and forms.
* Representing the department during audits.
* Control of stock within the Laboratory, including good stock rotation, ordering, testing, and obtaining QC certificates as required.
* Organise all monthly testing within the laboratory including data entry of results into spreadsheets.
* Participation in internal and external qualification assessments (IQA and EQA).
* Maintaining high standards of work within the department ensuring accreditation criteria are met.
* Organise Internal Qualification Assessments (IQA) for mix analysis and Standard Reference Material (SRM) for Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) daily calibrations, including entering data and analysis of results obtained.
* Application of World Class Manufacturing tools to drive improvements within the Laboratory and Factory Performance.

Other information:
The successful candidate should be educated with a science-based degree level
Familiar with an accredited laboratory environment, procedures, and practices ideally in a food manufacturing process or similar
Proven ability to communicate, both written and verbal, across different levels in different areas of a large organisation
Good IT skills - Ability to learn in-house systems and proficient in the use of MS Office applications
A self-starter who can work on own initiative without constant supervision
The role (Friday - Tuesday) requires occasional weekend work (Wednesday-Thursday) to cover holiday/absence as well as several bank holidays throughout the year.

Gloucester working environment:

• Ice cream manufacturing environment
• There is an onsite restaurant available, serving breakfast and lunch
• Uniform for manufacturing workers
• Staff shop selling discounted products
• Onsite parking
• Close proximity to M5 motorway and a 20-minute drive from Cheltenham.