Team Leader
At ALS, we encourage you to dream big.
When you join us, you’ll be part of a global team harnessing the power of scientific testing and data-driven insights to build a healthier future.
Team Leader - Main Lab - Trowbridge
Are you an experienced laboratory professional with a passion for leading people and delivering high-quality results? We're looking for a Team Leader to join our Main Laboratory in Trowbridge. Reporting to the Section Heads, you'll play a key role in leading a team of Laboratory Technicians, Senior Technicians, Analysts and Microbiologists, ensuring the smooth day-to-day operation of the laboratory while maintaining the highest standards of quality, safety and customer service.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone who thrives in a fast-paced laboratory environment, enjoys developing others and is committed to continuous improvement.
Role
Days Per Week: 4 on 4 off shift (9am to 9pm)
Contract: Full Time and Permanent
Annual Salary: £29,366
Hiring Manager: Ranjit Palahe
Closing Date: Tuesday 15th September 2026 (Please note: this vacancy may close earlier than the stated closing date if a sufficient number of applications is received)
The Day to Day
Organise and manage the team's workload to ensure business targets and client turnaround times are consistently achieved.
Monitor laboratory systems to ensure all testing and processes are completed accurately and within agreed timeframes.
Oversee sample registration reviews, ensuring appropriate tests, methods, media and dilutions are selected.
Coordinate routine Quality Management (QM) activities and ensure they are completed as scheduled.
Ensure retained sample retests and additional testing are set up within required timescales.
Communicate any delays to laboratory management and, where appropriate, clients.
Support the laboratory management team with results approval and out-of-specification reporting.
Identify opportunities for improved equipment, processes and ways of working, working closely with management to implement improvements.
Monitor attendance, timekeeping and team performance, escalating any concerns appropriately.
Maintain training records, identify development needs and provide training to ensure a skilled and flexible team.
Champion continuous learning and foster a positive, collaborative team culture.
Ensure all work complies with Health & Safety, Quality, Regulatory and Accreditation requirements, including ISO 9001:2015, ISO 17025:2017 and company policies.
Promote a strong safety culture by identifying unsafe practices, reporting incidents or near misses and working with the Laboratory Manager to drive continual safety improvements.
Ensure the quality of analytical data consistently meets company, regulatory and accreditation standards.
The Essentials
Previous laboratory experience with strong theoretical and practical knowledge of microbiological analysis across a broad range of methodologies and procedures.
Proven ability to organise workloads, prioritise effectively and lead a team in a busy laboratory environment.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Strong organisational skills with exceptional attention to detail.
Ability to work independently, use initiative and make informed decisions.
Proficient in Microsoft Office applications and Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).
A sound understanding of quality systems, regulatory compliance and laboratory accreditation requirements, including ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 17025:2017.
Commitment to maintaining high standards of health, safety and quality at all times, including the correct use of PPE and adherence to company procedures.
Five GCSEs (or equivalent), including Science, English and Mathematics.
Our Benefits Include:
Annual Leave commencing at 23 days
Ability to Buy annual leave.
Enhanced Company Sick Pay Scheme
Salary Progression Scheme based on technical and behavioural competencies.
'Value Awards' Recognition Scheme
Perkbox membership providing access to discount vouchers and wellness hub.
Learning/study support
Group Personal Pension Plan
Car Parking on-site
Working at ALS
The ALS team is a diverse and dedicated community united by our passion to make a difference in the world.
Our values are important to us, and shape how we work, how we treat each other and how we recognise excellence.
At ALS, you’ll be supported to develop new skills and reach your full potential. We invest in our people with programs and opportunities that help you build a diverse career with us.
We want everyone to have a safe, flexible and rewarding career that makes a positive impact on our people, the planet and our communities.
Everyone Matters
ALS is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment where the strengths and perspectives of each employee are both recognised and valued.
ALS also welcomes applications from people with all levels of ability. Reasonable adjustments to support candidates throughout the recruitment process are available upon request.
Eligibility
To be eligible to work at ALS you must be a Citizen or Permanent Resident of the country you are applying for, or either hold or be able to obtain, a valid working visa.
How to apply
Please apply on-line and provide a resume & cover letter that best demonstrate your motivation and ability to meet the requirements of this role.