Trainee Technical Officer

Vacancy: Trainee Technical Officer / Trainee Lab Technician

Westland Horticulture, a market leader in the gardening industry, is seeking a motivated Trainee Technical Officer to join the team. This is an outstanding opportunity for growth and development within a company dedicated to sustainable innovation and environmental responsibility.

Main Duties:

Growing Media

• Check and verify all lab equipment and process controls as required.
• Perform monthly verification analysis for all finished goods and raw materials.
• Routinely assess raw materials for non-conformances.
• Verify the growing media and fertiliser blending processes are running within specification.
• Ensure adequate controls are maintained to minimise contamination in finished goods.
• Work with the Technical Manager to improve process control and introduce innovation.
• Oversee all SOP’s, training and H&S documentation for the Technical Lab.
• Maintain finished product technical specifications, product labelling protocols and packaging information.
• Liaise with H&S and Site Services to correct issues identified through GMP audits.
• Assess raw material metering data for OOT, OOP and OOE results.
• Assess finished goods fill data to ensure legal compliance.
• Liaise with Technical and Maintenance staff for special planned or unscheduled events e.g NPD evaluation.
• Assist with R&D of new products and new raw materials.

Fertiliser Plant

• Perform batch release testing and in-process control testing for all production events.
• Assist with R&D of new products and assessment of new ingredients.
• Support the process technicians with chemical and technical advice as required.
• Assist the H&S team to maintain good COSHH and MSDS data for all materials.
• Operate and Maintain the Fertiliser Pilot Plant.
• Document and retain all finished goods for stability checks and complaints management.

Required Criteria

• Previous experience in a similar role or 6-months relevant laboratory experience - this may have been gained in a placement or educational setting.
• A minimum of 5 GCSEs at grades A-C including Maths, English & Science.
• Strong IT Skills i.e. proficient user of excel and good overall IT Knowledge and awareness of systems including Windows and other Microsoft packages.

Desirable Criteria

• Previous experience of using Ion Chromatography or HPLC equipment.
• Ability to demonstrate the use of calibration standards with reference to HPLC or IC functions.
• Demonstrable understanding of chemistry.
• Experience and ability to demonstrate the use of analytical techniques.
• High degree of self-discipline, organisation, adaptability and prioritisation.
• Able to work effectively under pressure, especially in times of peak demand.
• Degree background in Horticulture, Agriculture, Chemistry, Life Sciences or a related discipline.

If you are ready to embark on a rewarding journey, grow your skills, and contribute to an International FMCG company making a real impact in the gardening industry, APPLY NOW!

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Benefits:

• Casual dress
• Company events
• Company pension
• Employee discount
• On-site parking
• Referral programme
• Work from home

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 17/05/2024