Senior Scientist

United Utilities; Warrington; On-site; GBP 43,000; Full time

Job description

Salary - £42411

Work Type - Onsite

Job Location - Lingley Mere (UU), Lingley Green Avenue, Great Sankey, Warrington, WA5 3LP

Role Type - Permanent

Employment Type - Full Time

Working Hours - 37.0 Hours per Week

United Utilities' (UU) purpose is to deliver great water for a stronger, greener and healthier North West of England. We are committed to providing our services in a way that respects the environment, supports the economy, and benefits society.

We value diversity, inclusion and innovation in our workplace, and we foster a culture where our people can grow, excel, and be themselves.

We uphold our ethics, values and business model to fulfil our mission and, by setting clear goals and objectives, we create sustainable long-term value for our colleagues, customers and communities. Whether you work with a team that shares your vision or join a network of peers with similar interests, you will find a welcoming and supportive organisation to be part of.

We've got a lot to offer. You'll be part of a thriving FTSE 100 company and will enjoy a range of core benefits that reflect your value and value contribution.

Benefits

• A generous annual leave package of 26 days, which increases to 30 days after four years of service (increases one day per year), in addition to 8 bank holidays
• A competitive pension scheme with up to 14% employer contribution, 21% combined, and life cover
• Up to 7.5% performance-related bonus scheme, as well as recognition awards for outstanding achievements
• A comprehensive healthcare plan through our company-funded scheme
• MyGymDiscounts - gym and wellness benefit that offers up to 25% off on gym memberships and digital fitness subscriptions
• Best Doctors
• Salary Finance
• Wealth at Work courses
• Deals and discounts
• EVolve Car Scheme
• Employee Assistance Plan
• Mental health first aiders
• ShareBuy
• MORE Choices flexible benefits
• Enhanced parental leave schemes

Job Purpose

Seeking an experienced Team Supervisor to lead 4-7 Scientists and Lab Assistants. Responsibilities include resource planning, ensuring SLA compliance, authorising results, performance management, adherence to laboratory quality standards, UKAS accreditation support, technical issue resolution, and delivering high training standards. Drive excellence in method validation and continuous improvement within the team.

Accountabilities & Responsibilities

• Oversee the workload of 4-7 Scientists and Lab Assistants, ensuring resources are efficiently matched to daily demands, and results are authorised promptly. Address rapid changes in priorities while maintaining service level agreements (SLAs).
• Conduct regular performance reviews, 1-to-1 meetings, and manage absence, providing feedback to the manager. Support apprentices within the team, ensuring personal development plans (PDPs) are up to date and fostering a high-performance culture.
• Strict adherence to the laboratory's quality system, including undertaking routine reviews of quality control (AQC) charts and resolving non-conformance issues. Support UKAS accreditation and close out audit actions as required.
• Facilitate team involvement in method development, validation, and accreditation. Review training documentation, ensure analysts meet competency standards, and deliver knowledge-based training in collaboration with Technical Specialists.
• Identify risks, ensure a safe and tidy laboratory environment, and track key documentation such as COSHH and risk assessments. Actively contribute to quality updates, efficiency initiatives, and continuous improvement of working practices.