Laboratory Technician
MiAlgae · Grangemouth, Scotland, United Kingdom
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Flexibility will be required to support operational and business needs.The Opportunity Reporting to the Production Lab Supervisor, you will join MiAlgae's laboratory team, supporting both our Production and Quality Control functions. This is a varied, hands-on role that will primarily focus on supporting Production Laboratory activities, including inoculum preparation, aseptic laboratory operations, autoclaving, media preparation and laboratory housekeeping. As part of our cross-functional laboratory team, you will also receive training in Quality Control activities and will support QC testing, sampling, documentation and laboratory operations as required. The role offers an excellent opportunity for someone looking to broaden their laboratory experience across both production and quality environments within a rapidly growing biotechnology company. You will work closely with colleagues across Production, Quality, Engineering and Operations, helping to ensure safe, efficient and compliant laboratory operations while contributing to MiAlgae's mission of creating sustainable alternatives to marine-sourced Omega-3. As part of MiAlgae's cross-functional laboratory model, team members are trained across both Production and Quality Control activities, providing greater variety, development opportunities and operational flexibility. Key ResponsibilitiesProduce and maintain laboratory-scale algal cultures to support production activities.Carry out routine laboratory activities including media preparation, sampling, sterilisation and equipment preparation.Operate and maintain laboratory equipment including autoclaves and associated systems.Complete laboratory records, log sheets and documentation accurately and in accordance with company procedures.Support laboratory housekeeping, stock management and consumable control.Follow laboratory SOPs, risk assessments, COSHH assessments and health and safety requirements.Assist with microbiological and analytical testing activities under the guidance of the Quality team.Support sample preparation, testing and recording of quality control results.Assist with calibration, maintenance and routine checks of laboratory equipment.Support investigations, troubleshooting and continuous improvement initiatives across both Production and QC laboratories.Work flexibly across Production and Quality laboratories to provide operational support, holiday cover and absence cover when required.Participate in cross-training programmes and maintain competency across both Production and Quality Control laboratory activities.About You - Experience & QualitiesWe are looking for a motivated and adaptable laboratory professional who enjoys practical, hands-on work and is keen to develop a broad range of technical skills.You may be an early-career scientist with laboratory experience gained through education, placements or industry, or an experienced laboratory technician seeking a varied role within a growing biotechnology business.Most importantly, you will be flexible, eager to learn, comfortable working across different laboratory environments and committed to maintaining high standards of quality, safety and teamwork.EssentialA minimum of one year’s relevant laboratory experience gained in a biotechnology, microbiology, food, pharmaceutical, environmental, research or quality environment.A degree, HNC/HND or equivalent practical experience in Biotechnology, Biological Sciences, Microbiology, Chemistry or a related discipline.Demonstrated experience of aseptic techniques and maintaining sterile laboratory practices.Experience of media preparation, laboratory sampling, routine laboratory testing or analytical procedures.Experience following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and laboratory health and safety requirements.Experience maintaining accurate laboratory records, documentation and data.Competence in the use of standard laboratory equipment and willingness to learn new techniques and systems.Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritise work effectively in a fast-paced environment.Excellent attention to detail and a commitment to producing accurate, high-quality work.Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively with colleagues across different departments.A proactive and flexible approach to work, with the ability to adapt to changing priorities and support business needs.Willingness to undertake training and develop competency across both Production and Quality Control laboratory functions.DesirableExperience working with microbial cultures, fermentation processes or biotechnology manufacturing.Experience of microbiological testing techniques.Experience of analytical testing techniques.Experience operating autoclaves or similar sterilisation equipment.Familiarity with GMP, GLP, HACCP, ISO or other quality management systems.Understanding of Quality Control processes and laboratory quality systems.Experience contributing to continuous improvement initiatives.Full UK driving licence.Interest in biotechnology, sustainability and environmentally focused manufacturing processes.What We OfferCompetitive Compensation: based on experience, qualifications and suitability. We reward performance, contribution and business impact.Holidays: 32 days holiday per year (including bank holidays) to recharge and refresh, plus additional annual leave for each complete year of service, up to 5 additional days. Our holiday purchase scheme offers even more flexibility, allowing you to buy extra days when you need them.Pension & Benefits: 5% company pension contribution (qualifying earnings). We also offer a Cycle to Work and Electric Car salary sacrifice schemes. Free on-site parking is available for employees.Wellness Perks: 50% company contribution to gym membership to support your health and wellbeing – terms apply. You’ll also enjoy regular social events and team activities because at MiAlgae, it’s all about the folk and celebrating our successes together.Growth & Development: Develop a broad range of laboratory skills across both Production and Quality Control functions. We are committed to cross-training and continuous learning, providing opportunities to gain experience in microbiology, analytical testing, laboratory operations, quality systems and biotechnology manufacturing. As MiAlgae continues to grow, you'll have the opportunity to develop your career within a fast-paced and innovative environment.Mission & Impact: Be part of a pioneering biotech company delivering innovation with purpose, reducing reliance on wild-caught fish, supporting the circular economy, and driving a more sustainable pet food industry. Your work will directly contribute to creating a healthier planet.Why Join MiAlgae: This is an opportunity to join a growing laboratory team at an exciting stage in MiAlgae's journey. You'll work across Production and Quality Control activities, develop transferable technical skills, collaborate with colleagues from across the business, and play an important role in supporting the safe and successful growth of our Grangemouth operation.About MiAlgaeMiAlgae uses science and technology to produce a sustainable source of omega-3 from microalgae. Our process recycles co-products from the food and drink industry, returns clean water and supports a circular economy. Your work will help reduce reliance on wild-caught fish and support the growth of sustainable food and pet-food supply chains. We are an inclusive employer and welcome applications from people with different backgrounds and experiences. If you need an adjustment at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know. Ready To ApplyIf you’re excited by the opportunity to lead our production team and help shape a more sustainable future, we’d love to hear from you.Please send your CV to careers@mialgae.com. A cover letter is welcome but not required. Please use your CV or application to highlight your production or process experience, the teams you have led and your approach to safety, quality and shift delivery.Grangemouth Job Prioritisation Scheme (GJPS). If you wish to be considered under the Grangemouth Job Prioritisation Scheme, please indicate this when applying.