Laboratory Assistant

Laboratory Assistant

Location: Bristol, UK
Job Type: Full-Time

Are you organised, detail-oriented, and looking to build your career in a laboratory environment? VPG, part of Zoetis, is looking for a Laboratory Assistant to join our team in Bristol.

This is an excellent opportunity to become part of a leading veterinary pathology laboratory, supporting the delivery of high-quality diagnostic services that make a real difference to animal health. You’ll work alongside experienced laboratory professionals in a collaborative and supportive environment where your contribution is valued, and your development is encouraged.

As a Laboratory Assistant, you’ll play an essential role in supporting the smooth day-to-day operation of the laboratory. From specimen reception to stock management and laboratory housekeeping, you’ll help ensure our laboratory runs efficiently while maintaining the highest standards of quality and service.

• Receive and prepare incoming specimens for laboratory processing, ensuring samples are correctly labelled and recorded.
• Open and distribute general deliveries to the appropriate departments.
• Contact clients and partner laboratories by telephone and email when required.
• Provide administrative support, including typing dictation for the Grossing Technician.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organised laboratory environment.
• Dispose of wet tissue, specimens, and laboratory containers in accordance with laboratory procedures.
• Monitor and replenish laboratory consumables and stock.
• Prepare laboratory cassettes in line with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Prepare reagents for routine laboratory use and change processor reagents.
• Regularly monitor and action laboratory requests.
• Support quality assurance (QA), continuous improvement initiatives, and procedure development.
• Assist with the training of new Laboratory Assistants under the guidance of the Laboratory Manager or Deputy Laboratory Manager.
• Undertake any other reasonable duties to support the laboratory team.

We’re looking for someone who is enthusiastic, reliable, and enjoys working as part of a busy team.

• Excellent attention to detail.
• Professional and confident telephone manner.
• A flexible, self-motivated approach with a positive attitude.
• Ability to work independently and under pressure.
• Strong organisational and time management skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Basic IT skills and confidence using computer systems.

• Previous laboratory experience.
• Experience using Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.

At Zoetis, our colleagues make the difference. As the world’s leading animal health company, we’re committed to supporting our people with opportunities for learning, development, and career progression.

When you join VPG, you’ll become part of a team that is passionate about delivering exceptional veterinary diagnostic services while living our core values:

• Our Colleagues Make the Difference
• Always Do the Right Thing
• Customer Obsessed
• Run It Like You Own It
• We Are One Zoetis

We are proud to be an inclusive employer, welcoming people from diverse backgrounds who share our commitment to quality, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

If you’re looking for a rewarding role where you can develop your laboratory career while making a real impact on animal health, we’d love to hear from you.

Full time

Regular

Colleague