Recyclability Laboratory Technician

We are currently recruiting for a Recyclability Laboratory Technician, to providing laboratory testing for DS Smith customers against the CEPI Harmonised Test Methodology, complete evaluation documents, and report back to customers on the results.

Based at our Kemsley site, this role will report into the Head of Sustainability, Recyclability & Government Affairs and will involve administration around scheduling tests and liaising with other departments and functions across DS Smith, particularly with Packaging and Recycling divisions.

This role will suit someone who can work on their own, follow a set process, and have good communication skills and confidence to be able to speak to our customers on a regular basis. The role will be partially supervised by the existing Senior Laboratory Technician, based on site, with full training provided.

This position is a one-year FTC, with the possibility of extension should the demand for commercial testing be realised. The successful candidate may be required to work evenings/nights after successful completing training.

Key accountability's

Responsibilities include (but not limited):

Health, Safety & Environmental

• To ensure, at all times, they work in accordance with the local rules at Kemsley Mill and maintain a safe workplace for themselves, colleagues and visitors.
• Take a proactive approach to Health, Safety & Well-Being by reporting any defects or unsafe acts to enable preventive measures to be put in place.
• Actively engage in Risk Assessment activities to enable safe working.

Laboratory Management

• Understand and maintain high levels of professionalism and confidentiality in respect of the commercial/technical sensitivity of the work being conducted. From time to time, it may be necessary to sign a personal Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) or Materials Transfer Agreement (MTA).

Test Protocol

• Ensure the test protocols are fully understood and followed at all times.
• Be able to work on their own and fault-find/problem solve on their own or raise concerns when required.

Reporting

• Provide accurate written test report data and considerations, as per the test protocols, as soon as possible following test completion.
• Ensure test reports are filed/reported in the correct manner to a good standard of written English.
• Ensure any relevant information regarding the tests is recorded and highlighted within the report.
• Be aware and respect of the strict reporting protocol and approval process for release of reports and data.
• Maintain and manage a scheduling database to book in tests, and report on status, liaising with other departments and divisions as necessary.

• Educated to at least A-Level (or similar) in Technical/Engineering subject.
• Must be able to speak and write English to a reasonable standard.
• Competence in the suite of Microsoft Office applications is required.
• High degree of numeracy required for laboratory operations and testing.
• Must be confident and a good communicator, able to lead conversations with customers and relay key technical information clearly
• No prior experience of paper recyclability testing is required, but would be highly desirable
• Experience within the Paper Industry would be an advantage although any experience in a test/quality position in large manufacturing industry would also be suitable.
• Would suit someone with a mix of practical and theoretical ability.

Benefits

Additional benefits include:

• 25 days' holiday plus bank holidays
• Pension scheme
• Life assurance
• Income protection
• Employee assistance program
• Cycle to work scheme
• Shopping discounts