Laboratory Scientist (Chemistry) - #194979

Powered by Water, Driven by Purpose

South West Water keeps the South West flowing with safe, reliable drinking water and wastewater services across some of the UK’s most stunning landscapes.

We’re proud to be part of Pennon Group, a leader in the UK water sector, working towards a greener future. Our goals? As well as lowering our carbon footprint, we’re working with partners to plant 300,000 trees, restore peatlands and supporting farmers and landowners to improve water quality and wildlife.

Whether you’re starting out or seeking a new challenge, our scale and ambition create opportunities for you to shape your own career.

Ready to make a splash? Join our team today.

About The Role

As a Laboratory Scientist (Chemistry), you will play a critical role in ensuring high-quality scientific analysis that supports operational, regulatory, and customer needs. You will deliver accurate and reliable microbiological or chemical testing while maintaining strict compliance with quality and safety standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct chemical analysis using approved laboratory methods
• Maintain laboratory records in line with ISO17025:2017 and accredited quality systems
• Perform routine calibration and maintenance of laboratory instruments
• Plan and prioritise daily workload to support efficient laboratory operations
• Validate analytical results and determine suitability for reporting or further investigation
• Interpret and report results to internal and external stakeholders, responding to technical queries
• Identify, investigate, and document non-conformances, escalating where appropriate
• Support training and development of colleagues when required
• Contribute to method development and continuous improvement initiatives
• Promote and comply with Health & Safety and quality policies
• Maintain professional competency and support CPD requirements
• Participate in out-of-hours standby rota where required
  
  

Candidate Profile

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 GCSEs (including Maths, English, and Science)
• A-Level (or equivalent) in a relevant science (Chemistry or Biology)
• Degree, HNC, or NVQ in a scientific discipline (desirable)
  
  

Experience

• Experience working in a laboratory environment (ISO 17025 preferred)
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
  
  

Skills & Knowledge

• Strong understanding of laboratory Health & Safety practices
• Excellent attention to detail and problem-solving ability
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to organise and prioritise workload effectively
  
  

Personal Attributes

• Methodical and highly organised approach
• High integrity and commitment to accurate results
• Self-motivated and results-driven
• Calm under pressure and adaptable to change
• Proactive problem-solver with strong ownership mindset
  
  

Additional Requirements

• Willingness to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends
• Participation in emergency standby rota
• Commitment to continuous professional development
• Willingness to progress within a structured career pathway
  
  

Closing Date: 16th July 2026

We may close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Please note that the successful candidate will be subject to a mandatory DBS check as part of the onboarding process.

Be yourself, we like it that way. Together, we will build a culture of belonging, where inclusion is instinctive. Diversity is our strength and a reflection of our communities. We care, we value everyone, we celebrate uniqueness.

Our core values, which are essential to our success, are:

Be Rock Solid - Build trust and be trusted. Be the one we all look to and can depend on.

Be You - We want you to bring your best everyday. Be yourself and make your mark in your individual way.

Be the Future - Embrace change. Drive Progress. Own the challenge.

We look after the water and wastewater services for 1.8 million customers across Cornwall, Devon, the Isles of Scilly and parts of Dorset and Somerset.

From treatment and maintenance, to innovation and improvements, we're busy every day finding and fixing leaks, unblocking sewers and going bigger and further in our environmental work to be a company you can be proud of.