You will make preparation and analysis of clean and wastewater samples using accredited methodologies, working with the latest equipment. Our laboratories are an essential part of the business, enabling us to ensure our water is safe and clean, and that our waste products are treated correctly.

What you will be doing as a Laboratory Analyst *Carry out sample analysis and report test results in compliance with the DWI, EA, and ISO 17025. Ensure results are delivered within the required timeframes and in accordance with laboratory procedures and quality management systems. Maintain complete and accurate records for sample analysis and test result reporting.
*Provide precise, timely, and relevant information in response to customer enquiries. Understand the importance of the data generated and the potential implications of actions, reflecting an awareness of customer requirements.
*Actively develop the skills and knowledge needed to meet quality and technical standards for sample analysis and reporting. Engage in the Laboratory Progression Scheme to achieve ’Competent Analyst’ status for routine analytical methodologies within three years of your start date.
*Contribute to laboratory and company-wide initiatives, including continuous improvement efforts, environmental working groups, health and safety funding strategies, and the Hear for You Action planning.
Base Location: Spenser House, Reading
Working Hours: *Monday to Friday: 9 am–5 pm or 8 am–4 pm
*Weekend rota: One Saturday or Sunday every six weeks, paid as overtime
*Callout rota: One week in every five, paid as overtime
*Late Fridays: Until 7 pm, once every eight weeks
What you should bring to the role: *A minimum of A-level education in science; a science degree is advantageous.
*No prior water industry experience required, as full training will be provided.
*Confidence working in all laboratory areas. While laboratory experience is beneficial, it is not essential.
*A collaborative mindset, valuing teamwork to deliver outstanding customer service.
*A sense of drive and determination to learn new responsibilities and grow within the role.
What’s in it for you? *Competitive salary £27.723 per annum
*Annual Leave - 24 days holiday per year increasing to 28 with the length of service (Plus bank holidays)
*Contributory pension – Defined Contribution - Maximum of 12% -2x employee contribution
*Personal Medical Assessments – Open to all once a year
*Wider benefits scheme including our benefits hub, which is packed full of offers and information to save you money and support your wellbeing
Who are we?
At Thames Water, our purpose is crystal clear - to deliver life’s essential service so our customers, communities and planet can thrive.

Water is life’s great leveller. Every living thing needs it, every single day. From people to plants, birds to bees, farms to factories, we all need it to thrive, and we’re committed to taking care of it for us all.

But keeping water flowing is becoming harder. From scorching summers to wetter winters, extreme weather affects everything from our pipes to our local rivers. We need to keep millions more kettles boiling, public services operating, washing machines spinning, showers running and more, so every drop is more precious than ever. Are you ready to play your part?

Working at Thames Water
At Thames Water we recognise that people are at the heart of our business. To help us succeed in providing life’s essential service, we need a range of skills and capabilities, representative of society throughout our business.

We seek to attract and retain a cultural mix of people who can offer different but complementary attitudes, values, talents, and knowledge. We understand the importance of appreciating and harnessing the unique skills, experiences, background, and differences that each individual brings.

Our over-arching diversity and inclusion aim is to ensure Thames Water is a diverse and inclusive great place to work. We encourage applications from everyone and offer extra support for those who need it throughout the recruitment process.

Find out more about working at Thames Water.

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, meet colleagues and earn some extra money along the way.

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.