WWTP Analytical and Laboratory Specialist

Overview

Take technical ownership of the analytical programme and on-site laboratory for a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) during an important phase of project delivery. This role will oversee laboratory quality, sampling and analysis, data integrity, and interpretation of results to support reliable plant performance, environmental compliance and informed operational decision-making.
Working closely with WWTP Operations, Utilities and Engineering, Environmental and EHS teams, as well as external accredited laboratories, you will connect analytical results with process conditions and help identify emerging issues before they affect treatment performance or effluent quality.

Key Responsibilities

• Run and oversee sampling and analysis of influent, process streams, final effluent and sludge, including on-site testing.
• Control sample handling, preservation and holding times.
• Coordinate specialist and compliance analyses with external accredited laboratories.
• Own the laboratory QA/QC programme, SOPs and analytical methods.
• Apply relevant ISO 17025 principles and establish QC requirements and acceptance criteria.
• Investigate results outside limits and non-conforming work.
• Manage calibration, equipment maintenance, reagents, standards and consumables.
• Train analysts and assess competency.
• Compare results with external laboratory findings.
• Support audits and proficiency testing.
• Interpret analytical results in the context of plant conditions and process performance.
• Trend key parameters and identify early signs of decline.
• Support investigations into loading, toxicity, loss of nitrification, biomass, solids and effluent-quality issues.
• Contribute to root-cause investigations following excursions and support trials of operating changes.
• Validate results and maintain complete records with strong data integrity and traceability.
• Support mass-balance, loading and treatment-efficiency assessments.
• Prepare routine performance reports with clear recommendations for Operations, Engineering and Environmental teams.
• Support investigation of non-compliant results, incidents and regulatory reporting.
• Support EPA inspections and audits.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Level 8 degree in Environmental Science, Chemistry, Analytical Science, Environmental or Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology or a related discipline.
• Minimum five years' relevant experience in wastewater, water or environmental analysis.
• Hands-on wet chemistry and/or instrumental laboratory experience.
• Practical knowledge of industrial and biological wastewater treatment, including aerobic and anoxic processes.
• Proven ability to link analytical results to process performance.
• Experience applying QA/QC and data integrity requirements in a regulated environment.
• Strong laboratory and wastewater analysis capability.
• Sound judgement and a structured approach to problem-solving.
• Clear and effective technical communication skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and a strong commitment to accurate, traceable data.
• Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with Operations, Engineering, EHS and external laboratory teams.

Preferred Education and Experience

• Experience within a pharmaceutical or biopharmaceutical environment.
• Experience working at an EPA Industrial Emissions Licence (IEL) site.
• Knowledge of activated sludge processes.
• Experience investigating wastewater treatment process upsets.
• Experience establishing or operating laboratory QA/QC systems.
• Familiarity with ISO 17025, audits and method validation.
• Knowledge of statistics and laboratory information systems.

Bring your analytical expertise to a role where your laboratory leadership and process insight will directly support WWTP performance-apply today.
WHY LSC? LSC work exclusively in the Life Sciences sector. Founded and run by contractors, we understand contracting first-hand and have created a unique approach to make the process as smooth as possible, so you can focus on delivering your best work. With over 23 years' experience supporting the industry, we bring deep sector knowledge and long-standing client relationships. At LSC, we partner with you for the long term, not just the duration of your contract. We are committed to building lasting relationships and will work closely with you to ensure you are placed on projects that challenge, develop, and reward you throughout your career. Note: Are you currently eligible to work in Ireland? As this is a contract opportunity, you will need to hold a Stamp 1G or Stamp 4 visa to apply. Apply via this advert or contact Jenny Murphy on 021 4777329 if you have any questions about this role. Find out more about working with LSC at lscconnect.com