Laboratory Analyst

at  Springfields Fuels Ltd

Westinghouse UK provides Nuclear Fuel and Intermediate products to National and International Customers. With the recent change in global economics the world market has changed, along with increased interest in Nuclear Power across the globe, this brings new growth to the Springfields Preston site. The industry is experiencing growth at a rate which has not be seen since the start of the nuclear age. New and exciting challenges are ahead with the industry pushing for continual development of new products while maintaining to provide for its current customer base. To allow us to provide this fuel to the strictly regulated industry we must ensure the material we produce is to the highest standards. The analytical Laboratories at Westinghouse UK are an integrated part of this process and provide Quality Control and Assurance testing to its internal and external customer’s needs, whilst providing quick turnaround process control analysis to maintain plant operations. To support the companies increased production and development projects, there is a need to increase our laboratories capabilities to match our production plants.
There has never been a better opportunity for determined and motivated analytical chemists to join our team. We offer a competitive salary, and support growth within your role and beyond as we try to release your full potential.
The successful applicants’ daily duties will be to carry out quality control analysis on a range of materials from crude products to finished fuel to internationally recognised standards ISO 17025 and ISO 9001. They will be expected to carryout analysis using a variety of techniques such as Mass Spectrometry, Ion Chromatography, Thermogravimetry, Spectrophotometry and classical titrimetric methods. As an advocate for continual improvement and supporting new products, we continually advance the techniques used in the laboratory, using some of the latest instrumentation to market. As part of the role, they will help develop and validate these new methods while developing their own skills and knowledge base. Working in a highly regulated and monitored industry we require individuals who understand the importance of Quality Control Criteria and Good Lab Practice Standards. They must also exhibit and a healthy appetite for safety by adhering to procedures and ensuring a clean and safe work environment. High standards and expectations are critical in their approach to providing a quality service to our customers.
The annual salary reflects the unique nature of the job and the high demand for quality.

Desirable but not essential skills/requirements

• Understanding of the nuclear fuel manufacturing process.
• Trained in handling Radioactive materials.
• Previous experience in the use of Laboratory Information Management System for result reporting.
• A good understanding of statistical analysis techniques.
• Practical working knowledge of laboratory quality control procedures to include, control charts, proficiency testing and use of certified reference materials

• Strong analytical skills to carry out complex tests and interpret the results accurately, thus ensuring the quality of products with at least 2 years working in a commercial quality control laboratory.
• Excellent attention to detail to detect even the smallest deviation in sample results and ensure every test run is up to standard.
• Proficient knowledge of Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and ISO 17025.
• Ability to handle and operate laboratory equipment like ICP-MS, Ion Chromatography pipettes, and spectrometers, among others.
• Responsible for calibrating, validating, and maintaining laboratory equipment and devices before usage.
• Strong record-keeping skills to accurately document test procedures, protocols, and results, ensuring consistency and reliability of data.
• Problem-solving skills to identify issues that may arise during the testing process.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively relay test results, write reports, and work as part of a team.
• Exhibit good technical knowledge of different types of laboratory tests and procedures, including physical, and chemical testing.
• Understanding of safety procedures and protocols in a laboratory setting to prevent accidents and ensure the health and safety of themselves and their colleagues.

Desirable but not essential skills/requirements

• Understanding of the nuclear fuel manufacturing process.
• Trained in handling Radioactive materials.
• Previous experience in the use of Laboratory Information Management System for result reporting.
• A good understanding of statistical analysis techniques.
• Practical working knowledge of laboratory quality control procedures to include, control charts, proficiency testing and use of certified reference materials.