Laboratory Technicians are the backbone of any research team. Technicians almost exclusively are laboratory-based and may work alone or as part of a team.

The role requires an analytical approach with a range of analyses on raw materials and by-products; supporting the Distilleries demanding service, cost and quality requirements. You will be involved in all analytical aspects of Whisky distillation with the aim to achieve continuous improvement in process efficiency and quality.

Main duties and responsibilities

• Conducting the daily routine experiments, trials and analysis requirements of the distillery to ensure raw materials and chemicals are within specified parameters and have the correct documentation and certification logged as required by the Chemical Hygiene Plan.
• Working closely with production colleagues to provide daily testing of the fermentation and distillation areas to ensure samples are retained of every product shipped, including receipts for further analysis and pre-shipment samples for customers.
• Participate in projects aimed at continuously improving process efficiency and quality.
• Assisting Research & Development with the testing requirements of new product developments and new formulations. And, supporting Sales with the testing and documentation requirements for customers.
• Organise organoleptic panels to assess whiskies quality and to perform sensory assessments of incoming ingredients and the character of whiskies throughout the distillation process.
• Follow Good Laboratory Practices to prepare and verify reagents, standards and media.
• Calculate and log test results, and actively investigate deviations to normally expected analytical results.
• Maintain, calibrate and clean laboratory equipment as needed to ensure accurate results.
• Writing reports, reviews and summaries, and presenting findings.
• Keeping up to date with relevant scientific and technical developments.
• Carrying out risk assessments and ensure full compliance with health and safety and process requirements.
• Monitor and order laboratory inventories, instruments, equipment and supplies as needed to ensure deadlines are continually met.
• Support the disposal of retained line and lot samples and the cleaning of storage containers.

Skills and experience

To become a Laboratory Technician, you will either need a degree in a relevant scientific subject such as biology, biochemistry, chemistry or physics. Or have undertaken an apprenticeship in an entry-level role providing on the job training and progression.

A school leaver following this career path will typically need GCSE’s or Standard Grades with A levels or Highers in a scientific subject and could typically expect to progress to a supervisor level. To progress to more senior or research roles will require a degree.

In addition you will:

• High levels of self-motivation and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• High levels of attention to detail and ability to keep detailed, accurate records and logs.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong analytical and mathematical skills.
• Good levels of computer literacy, including the use of Microsoft Office and Excel.
• Ability to write reports and supporting documentation clearly and concisely.
• Excellent organisational skills.
• A knowledge of the distilling process and laboratory information systems would be an advantage.

Qualifications required

• Batchelors degree in a scientific field or to have followed an apprenticeship.
• 1-2 years’ experience working in a laboratory.

Institute of Brewing and Distilling
Tel: 020 7499 8144
Website: http://www.ibd.org.uk
Twitter: @IBDHQ
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IBDHQ

National Skills Academy for Food and Drink
Tel: 0330 174 1253
E-mail: info@nsafd.co.uk
Website: http://nsafd.co.uk
Twitter: @NSAFD

Scotland Food and Drink
Tel: 0131 335 0940
Website: http://www.foodanddrink.scot
Twitter: @scotfooddrink
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scotfooddrink