Laboratory Assistant

Whether you’re talking about length, mass, time, temperature, electric current, amount or the brightness of light, the National Physical Laboratory sets the standards by which these things are all measured. At NPL, we touch ordinary lives in extraordinary ways and you could too.

Research is at the heart of all we do. In this vital role, you’ll help carry out a variety of technical activities that will help us resolve problems we’ve identified, to achieve positive outcomes. It’s very much a team effort. And whilst there’ll be a number of pre-determined activities, we’ll expect you to be proactive too – spotting commercial opportunities along the way. It’s also important that you strive to deepen your subject matter knowledge, sharing this as you go so that everyone benefits – championing your work and its importance. All of which you’ll complete on time, within budget and to the highest standards.

We strive to offer a great work life balance - if you are looking for full time, part time or flexible options, we will try to make this work where business possible. This will be dependent on the kind of role you do and part of the business you work in.

We are now working in a hybrid way, with a mix of remote and office working. We strive to offer a great work life balance - if you are looking for full time, part time or flexible options, we will try to make this work where business possible. This will be dependent on the kind of role you do and part of the business you work in.

We are looking for an organised individual, able to learn and follow instructions and processes in order to work safely with scientists and delicate equipment. You’ll ideally have some experience working in a team, maintaining documentation and delivering to deadlines. You do not need any scientific qualifications for this role but an interest would be ideal.

The role will entail supporting scientists to ensure they have all the equipment they need to hand, including moving gas cylinders, stocking consumables, ensuring process paperwork is up-to-date and ensuring that laboratories are kept tidy.

Beyond that, we’re looking for someone who’ll thrive in an environment like ours.

At NPL we learn from each other, respect each other and work together to do better, for ourselves and for our customers. And whilst we’re always looking to stretch beyond what we know, we don’t make things more complicated when there’s no need.

Please note: Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as possible.

The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK.

NPL and DSIT have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, providing they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme.

At NPL, we believe our success is a result of the diversity and talent of our people. We strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities regardless of their own or perceived identity, as part of our commitment to diversity & inclusion, we hold memberships and accreditations to ensure we’re creating an environment where all our colleagues feel supported and welcome, please see our Diversity & Inclusion page.

We are committed to the health and well-being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work-life balance, along with a broad range of benefits. Our values are at the heart of what we do, and they shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success.

To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we’re always willing to make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss, please contact us.