Analytical Specialist

smart4chemicals; England; On-site; GBP 80,000 - GBP 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading materials science company in Staffordshire is seeking an Analytical Specialist to conduct high-quality elemental analysis using XRF. The successful candidate will support method development and ensure compliance with UKAS and ISO standards. Responsibilities include performing XRF on a variety of materials, conducting quality checks, and collaborating with the chemistry team to meet client demands. This full-time role offers a competitive salary, private medical insurance, and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits package

Private Medical Insurance & Medical Cash Plan

Pension matched up to 5%

25 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Professional development support

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience in an analytical chemistry lab, proven expertise in XRF analysis.
• Experience in method development and validation for problem-solving.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to meet tight deadlines.
• Attention to detail in record keeping and reporting.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office for data handling.

Responsibilities

• Perform elemental analysis using XRF on various materials to high standards.
• Support method development, validation, and continuity in XRF capabilities.
• Conduct quality checks and maintain accurate records per UKAS and QA requirements.
• Collaborate with chemistry team colleagues to meet client demands.

Skills

Hands-on experience in an analytical chemistry laboratory

Expertise in XRF analysis

Method development and validation

Strong organizational skills

Attention to detail

Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Education

BSc/MSc/PhD in Chemistry or related discipline

Job description

Analytical Specialist

Smart4Chemicals are recruiting for an Analytical Chemist for an established materials science company to join its state-of-the-art laboratories in Staffordshire. This role is key in delivering high-quality elemental analysis using X-ray Fluorescence (XRF), supporting method development, validation, and continuous improvement, while ensuring compliance with UKAS and ISO 17025 standards. The Analytical Specialist will work closely with colleagues across the chemistry team to provide accurate results, drive innovation in testing methods, and support clients across diverse industries including nuclear, healthcare, energy, construction, and advanced materials.

Key responsibilities:

• Perform elemental analysis using XRF on a wide range of materials to high standards.
• Support method development, validation, and continuous improvement of XRF capabilities.
• Conduct quality checks, instrument calibrations, and maintain accurate records in line with UKAS and QA requirements.
• Maintain laboratory safety, cleanliness, and equipment functionality.
• Handle internal and external queries professionally and promptly.
• Collaborate with colleagues across the Chemistry team to meet client and business demands.

Requirements:

• Hands-on experience in an analytical chemistry laboratory, with proven expertise in XRF analysis.
• Experience in method development, validation, and applying analytical outcomes to support problem-solving and continuous improvement.
• Strong organisational skills and ability to work to tight deadlines.
• Attention to detail with diligent record keeping and reporting.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and general data handling.
• BSc/MSc/PhD in Chemistry or related discipline

Benefits:

• Permanent, full-time role with competitive salary and benefits package.
• Private Medical Insurance & Medical Cash Plan, pension matched up to 5%, and life assurance.
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays including Christmas shutdown.
• Professional development support and access to in-house corporate library.