Laboratory Manager

Westland Horticulture is a market leader in the UK gardening industry, known for delivering high-quality growing media, fertilisers, and plant care products. With a strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and product excellence, we are proud to support gardeners across the UK and beyond. As we continue to grow, we are looking for a Technical Laboratory Officer to join our Technical Team and play a key role in maintaining product quality and driving innovation within our manufacturing operations.

This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated and detail-oriented individual with a scientific background who enjoys hands-on laboratory work in a fast-paced production environment. You’ll be responsible for ensuring the quality and consistency of our products through a range of analytical testing and process controls. Key Responsibilities Calibrate and verify laboratory equipment and process controls Carry out routine and monthly analysis on raw materials and finished goods Identify non-conforming materials and support corrective actions Monitor growing media and fertiliser production to ensure specifications are met Maintain strict contamination control standards Support continuous improvement and innovation within the Technical Team Manage laboratory documentation including SOPs, training records, and H&S compliance Maintain product specifications, labelling, and packaging information Support GMP audits and work with H&S teams to resolve issues Review production data to ensure compliance with internal and legal standards Support new product development (NPD) and technical trials Conduct batch release and in-process testing Provide technical support to production teams Maintain COSHH and MSDS documentation Operate and maintain the Fertiliser Pilot Plant Manage retained samples for stability testing and complaint investigations About You Highly organised with excellent attention to detail Strong communicator with the ability to work across multiple teams Proactive and solutions-focused Able to manage workload effectively in a fast-paced environment A collaborative team player with a hands-on approach Skills & Experience Essential: Minimum 6 months’ laboratory experience (including placements), ideally within manufacturing or industry Strong understanding of laboratory procedures and analytical testing Desirable: Experience with Ion Chromatography or HPLC Knowledge of calibration standards and analytical techniques A-Level Chemistry (minimum); degree in Chemistry, Life Sciences, or related field preferred Experience working in a production or manufacturing environment Why Join Westland?

At Westland, you’ll be part of a forward-thinking, innovative business where quality and sustainability are at the heart of everything we do. We offer a supportive team environment, opportunities for development, and the chance to make a real impact within a growing organisation.