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