About the job

Laboratory Assistant — Leatherhead, Surrey Salary: £23,000 – £26,500, depending on age/experience (full training provided) Hours: Full-time, 37.5 hrs/week, Monday–Friday Location: On-site, Leatherhead Reporting to: Senior Microbiologist Start: ASAP Cara Technology holds the largest collection of brewing yeast in the world — 850 strains, built up over almost 130 years, trusted by breweries globally since 1881. We're expanding our microbiology team to keep pace with new projects and increasing demand — this is a new role, not a replacement.

This is a genuine entry point into laboratory science: no experience needed, full training given, and a real path into learning yeast microbiology from one of the world leaders in the field. You'll join a small, tight-knit team where you'll be trained directly by experienced microbiologists — not lost in a big department. Ideal for a school leaver or anyone with an interest in science or brewing looking to start a career, not just take a job. What you'll do

• Prepare culture media and lab reagents following SOPs
• Log incoming samples accurately on our systems
• Monitor and maintain lab stock levels
• Wash, sterilise, and organise glassware and equipment
• Keep the lab clean, organised, and hygienic
• Maintain lab records and quality documentation
• Over time, train in yeast microbiology techniques and workflows
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What we're looking for

• Tidy, methodical, and detail-focused
• Eager to learn, practical and hands-on
• Good team player and communicator
• Comfortable following hygiene and safety protocols
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Nice to have (not essential)

• Further education in a scientific discipline
• Previous lab experience, especially microbiology
• Confidence with Excel (training available)
• Interest in beer or brewing
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What you'll get

• 26 days holiday + bank holidays
• Company pension
• Enhanced sick, parental, and bereavement leave
• Flexible working hours where possible
• On-site parking
• Company events and socials
• Structured training and development
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• No lab experience? No problem — if you're keen to learn and have a practical mindset, we'd love to hear from you. Apply now for an ASAP start.