Laboratory Technician

Laboratory Support Chemist (Permanent)

Location:

Haltwhistle, Northumberland

Hours:

Monday to Friday, 08:30 – 17:30

Contract: Permanent

About the Role

Our client is a specialist manufacturer of

aviation de-icing and anti-icing fluids

, supplying safety-critical products used globally within aircraft ground operations. The Laboratory Support Chemist role is a

permanent position

within the Quality and Technical Services function, supporting the testing, verification, and assurance of aviation fluids in line with industry guidance and regulatory standards.

The role plays a key part in ensuring that aviation fluids meet stringent quality, safety, and performance requirements throughout manufacture, storage, and field use.

Key Responsibilities Laboratory Testing \& Quality Control

• Carry out routine and periodic laboratory testing of aviation de-icing and antiicing fluids (Type I, II and IV) in accordance with established procedures.
• Perform and record

refractive index (RI)

measurements to verify glycol concentration and freeze-point protection.

• Conduct

pH testing

to assess fluid condition and identify potential degradation.

• Undertake

viscosity testing

(where applicable) using flow cup and/or rotational viscometer methods in line with product specifications.

• Complete

visual inspections

to identify contamination, discolouration, separation, or foreign particulates.

• Support quality checks on manufactured batches prior to release to customers.

Sample Handling \& Processing

• Receive, log, label, and process samples returned from customer field locations, storage tanks, delivery vehicles, and application nozzles.
• Verify that all samples meet required submission criteria (correct container, labelling, volume, and documentation).
• Maintain accurate records of sample origin, condition, test results, and reporting status.
• Liaise with Technical Services teams where results fall outside specification or further investigation is required.

Data Recording \& Reporting

• Accurately document all laboratory results within internal systems and customer reports.
• Support the preparation of technical reports used to advise customers on fluid condition, corrective actions, and continued suitability for use.
• Escalate non-conformances and contribute to troubleshooting activities using established guidance.

Laboratory \& Equipment Maintenance

• Carry out general laboratory duties including glassware cleaning, equipment care, and stock management.
• Ensure laboratory instruments (e.g. refractometers, pH meters, viscometers) are clean, correctly stored, and suitable for use.
• Assist with routine checks to ensure laboratory readiness during peak winter aviation periods.

Health, Safety \& Compliance

• Work at all times in accordance with company

health, safety, environmental, and quality standards

.

• Follow safe working practices when handling chemicals and heated fluids, including correct use of PPE.
• Maintain high standards of housekeeping and laboratory discipline in a safetycritical environment.

What We’re Looking For

• Education in

Chemistry, Applied Science, or a related scientific discipline

.

• A strong interest in laboratory-based quality control and technical testing.
• Good analytical skills with

excellent attention to detail

.

• Ability to follow defined procedures accurately and work independently when required.
• Comfortable working in a regulated, safety-critical environment.
• Previous laboratory experience (industrial, chemical, or quality-focused) is desirable but not essential.

Why This Role

• Permanent, stable role with standard weekday hours.
• Opportunity to work with

aviation-critical products

used worldwide.

• Strong technical exposure to quality control, troubleshooting, and regulated manufacturing.
• Supportive team environment with clear procedures and professional standards.