[Hiring] Analytical Chemistry Technical Assessor @UKAS

Role Description

We are looking for an experienced Analytical Chemistry Technical Assessor (Environmental Chemistry) to support assessments within the AFLA area. This is a part‑time, independent contractor role.

Technical Assessors play a pivotal role in the UKAS assessment process, providing the specialist expertise needed to carry out robust, evidence‑based assessments of ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited laboratories. The role involves:

• Reviewing technical competence
• Observing laboratory activities
• Contributing to clear, high‑quality assessment reports

This is a varied and rewarding opportunity to use your current, hands‑on technical knowledge to work with laboratories across the UK (and occasionally overseas), supporting confidence in environmental monitoring and continuous improvement against accreditation requirements.

Qualifications

• Recent practical experience (not solely managerial) within an ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited testing laboratory.
• Strong background in environmental analysis, including water, soil and/or air testing.
• Demonstrable experience in method development and/or method validation in the recent past.
• Sound understanding of internal and external quality control, data integrity and data performance checks.
• Practical knowledge of applicable regulatory and sector requirements.

Requirements

• Core analytical techniques should include a combination of:
  • Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS)
  • Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS)
  • High‑performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)
  • Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP‑OES / ICP‑AES)
  • Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP‑MS)
  • Ion Chromatography (IC)
• In‑depth, current technical knowledge relevant to environmental and analytical chemistry.
• Experience supporting and developing the technical aspects of a laboratory quality system.
• Some experience of internal or external auditing of laboratory technical activities (desirable).
• Strong analytical judgement and attention to technical detail.
• Confident, professional communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with laboratory staff and management at all levels.

Benefits

• Full training will be provided to support you in becoming a UKAS Technical Assessor, including UKAS systems training, ISO/IEC 17025:2017 standard awareness and report‑writing to UKAS requirements.

Contract Details

• Contract type: Independent, self‑employed contractor
• Location: Remote, with UK‑wide coverage (occasional overseas work may arise)
• This role must be undertaken on an independent basis. Due to independence and impartiality requirements, it cannot be carried out alongside a full‑time employed role.