Laboratory Assistant

This is a practical, hands-on role supporting the smooth day-to-day operation of our laboratories. You’ll be part of a supportive and collaborative team, helping ensure samples are processed efficiently and accurately so our water quality testing can be carried out to the highest standards. Full training is provided, making this a great opportunity for someone looking to gain experience in a laboratory or operational environment.

What you’ll be doing as a Laboratory Assistant

• Supporting the daily operation of the laboratory, including the receipt and processing of samples and consumables
• Managing deliveries through the goods-in area and distributing samples to the correct analytical teams
• Checking samples on arrival, identifying any issues, and escalating where needed
• Preparing and issuing bottles for sampling and keeping laboratory records up to date
• Disposing of sample contents after analysis, including washing and recycling bottles
• Responding to internal queries and providing a helpful service to colleagues
• Supporting continuous improvement by sharing ideas and helping improve processes

Base location: Spencer House, Reading
Working hours: Monday to Friday, working shifts between 08:00 and 21:00. Typical shifts include:
08:00–16:30
10:30–19:00
12:30–21:00

Please note this role includes manual handling, with some lifting of sample cases and consumables weighing up to 20kg.

What you should bring to the role

• An interest in working in a laboratory or operational environment
• Experience in a laboratory, customer service, warehouse or retail role, or a scientific qualification, is helpful but not essential
• Good communication skills and the ability to work well as part of a team
•  A reliable, organised approach with good attention to detail
• Basic IT skills and confidence using Microsoft Office
• The physical ability to carry out manual handling tasks

What’s in it for you?

• This role will be paid £28,830 per annum

• 24 days holiday per year, increasing to 28 with the length of service. (plus bank holidays)
• Generous Pension Scheme through AON.
• Access to lots of benefits to help you take care of yourself and your family’s health and wellbeing, 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.