Senior Sample Reception Officer

Lead Sample Reception in a World Class Laboratory

Join Tetra Tech as Sample Reception Supervisor at our Bedford laboratory and play a pivotal role in delivering high quality analytical services to international clients.

This permanent, full time position (fixed shift 14:00–22:00) leads a team of Sample Reception Officers responsible for receiving, logging and storing samples, ensuring accurate client requirements and maintaining sample reception areas. You will operate within Tetra Tech’s state of the art Bedford facility, part of a laboratory group that includes Manchester, serving agrochemical, environmental and food safety markets. The role supports projects ranging from routine monitoring to complex remediation programmes and interfaces daily with Analysts, Chemists, Technicians, Logistics and Project Coordination teams.

Typical deliverables include accurate LIMS records, timely sample throughput, KPI reporting and contribution to annual operating budgets.

In the short term you will establish robust reception workflows and stabilise sample throughput. Over the medium term you will optimise storage and traceability, reduce lead times and raise team competency through training. Longer term you will influence laboratory capacity planning, contribute to accreditation readiness and progress into broader laboratory management or technical coordination roles working on significant, high profile projects that support regulatory compliance and remediation efforts.

• Team leadership:
  Proven ability to supervise and motivate a small operational team, manage performance and maintain shift continuity.
• Sample management & LIMS proficiency:
  Demonstrable experience of sample receipt, storage, chain of custody procedures and accurate use of LIMS or similar systems.
• Quality, compliance & safety:
  Strong understanding of laboratory QA/QC practices, accreditation standards and health & safety requirements.
• Operational planning & KPI management:
  Experience monitoring KPIs, identifying risks/opportunities and communicating resource needs to senior management.
• Communication & stakeholder engagement:
  Effective communicator with clients and internal teams, able to translate technical requirements into operational action.

Science related qualifications (A level or equivalent), practical laboratory experience, familiarity with LIMS. Desirable: formal training in laboratory quality systems, line management experience, prior work in environmental or agrochemical testing.

On site at Bedford, fixed shift 14:00–22:00, permanent full time. Role requires regular presence on site to manage sample reception and team activities.

We provide a collaborative environment that supports individual performance, innovation, and creativity.

In alignment with the Equality Act 2010, we will make reasonable adjustments to support candidates and employees requiring additional arrangements. This could include adaptations to work schedules, training approaches, or the physical workspace. Please inform us if you need any accommodations during the recruitment process or in your day-to-day role.