Laboratory Analyst

We are looking for a Laboratory Analyst to join our Inorganic Chemistry department, known for handling the highest throughput of samples in our laboratory. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and want to make a meaningful impact, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.

What you’ll be doing as a Laboratory Analyst

• Prepare and analyse samples using colourimetric, gravimetric, and automated analysis techniques.
• Work both collaboratively and independently to deliver high-quality results, ensuring we protect our customers, the environment, and the ecosystems within our water basins.
• Use a mix of automated systems and traditional testing methods to keep your skills sharp and continuously develop.
• Collaborate with a talented team of managers and leaders who will support your growth and help you progress towards senior analyst roles within Thames Water Laboratories.
• Develop expertise in your focus areas and continuously expand your skills.
• Ensure adherence to quality management systems, including ISO/IEC 17025, MCERTs, and DWTS standards.

Base Location: Reading, Spenser House.
Working Pattern: A 6-week rolling rota:

• Weeks 1 & 2: Day shifts. (8 am - 4 pm or 10 am - 6 pm with flexible working hours)
• Weeks 3 & 4: Late shifts. (approx. 2 pm - 10 pm)
• Week 5: Day shifts with a working weekend.
• Week 6: Monday & Tuesday off, followed by 3 days of day shifts.

What you should bring to the role:

• Experience working in a laboratory OR a Science-related degree/A-Level (or equivalent) with a minimum B/6 grade in Maths GCSE.
• Ability to follow strict procedures and guidelines to produce, record, maintain, and verify data within a highly regulated UKAS-accredited laboratory.
• A customer-focused mindset, with a commitment to exceptional service and teamwork.
• Comfort in performing repetitive tasks while maintaining focus and quality.
• A proactive approach to personal growth and process improvement, with the confidence to share your ideas.

What’s in it for you?

• Salary £27,723 per annum.
• Annual Leave - 24 days holiday per year, increasing to 28 with the length of service.
• Generous Pension Scheme through AON.
• Access to many benefits to help you take care of your and your family’s health and well-being, and your finances – from annual health MOTs and access to physiotherapy and counselling to Cycle to Work schemes, shopping vouchers and life assurance.

Find out more about our benefits and perks

Who are we?
We’re the UK’s largest water and wastewater company, with more than 16 million customers relying on us every day to supply water for their taps and toilets. We want to build a better future for all, helping our customers, communities, people, and the planet to thrive. It’s a big job and we’ve got a long way to go, so we need help from passionate and skilled people, committed to making a difference and getting us to where we want to be in the years and decades to come.

Learn more about our purpose and values

Working at Thames Water
Thames Water is a unique, rewarding, and diverse place to work, where every day you can make a difference, yet no day is the same. As part of our family, you’ll enjoy meaningful career opportunities, flexible working arrangements and excellent benefits.

If you’re looking for a sustainable and successful career where you can make a daily difference to millions of people’s lives while helping to protect the world of water for future generations, we’ll be here to support you every step of the way. Together, we can build a better future for our customers, our region, and our planet.

Real purpose, real support, real opportunities. Come and join the Thames Water family. Why choose us? Learn more.
We’re committed to being a great, diverse, and inclusive place to work. We welcome applications from everyone and want to ensure you feel supported throughout the recruitment process. If you need any adjustments, whether that’s extra time, accessible formats, or anything else, just let us know. We’re here to help and support.

When a crisis happens, we all rally around to support our customers. As part of Team Thames, you’ll have the opportunity to sign up to support our customers on the frontline as an ambassador. Full training will be given for what is undoubtedly an incredibly rewarding experience. It’s also a great opportunity to learn more about our business and meet colleagues.

Disclaimer: Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we may close the advert earlier than the advertised date, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.