Microbiology Logistics Manager

At ALS, we encourage you to dream big.

When you join us, you’ll be part of a global team harnessing the power of scientific testing and data-driven insights to build a healthier future. 

Microbiology & Logistics Manager – Wakefield

ALS Environmental is seeking a Microbiology & Logistics Manager to join our operations team in Wakefield. This role offers an opportunity for someone with a strong microbiology background who enjoys supporting teams, improving ways of working, and helping to deliver reliable, high-quality laboratory services.

In this position, you will contribute to the day-to-day management of our Wakefield laboratory operations, with responsibility for both the Microbiology and Logistics departments. Working alongside the Senior Leadership Team, overseeing the Team Leaders and their teams of analysts, logistics technicians, and couriers, you will help ensure samples and analytical results are handled efficiently and delivered to our customers to the highest standards.

We are particularly interested in candidates with experience leading teams within a microbiology laboratory environment, ideally with knowledge of potable drinking water testing and experience working in a regulated and accredited environment.

You’ll play a key role in maintaining high regulatory and quality standards while driving process improvements and supporting the development of the team. This role suits someone who enjoys collaboration, solving operational challenges, and contributing to the smooth running of a busy, accredited laboratory.

The Role

Location: Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Company: ALS Environmental
Salary: From £37,314 per annum - Dependent on experience
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Working Pattern: Monday to Friday, 37 hours per week

Day-to-Day

• Leading and supporting the Microbiology and Logistics teams, including four direct Team Leaders and wider operational staff
• Managing departmental budgets, staffing levels, and operational resources to ensure efficient laboratory performance
• Driving process improvements and capacity planning to increase efficiency and reduce operational costs
• Ensuring all laboratory activities comply with quality, regulatory, accreditation, and health & safety standards (e.g., ISO 17025, UKAS, DWTS)
• Working closely with customer service teams and clients to ensure KPIs, turnaround times, and service expectations are met
• Supporting staff recruitment, training, development, and performance management, helping teams grow and succeed

Essentials

• HNC or degree in a Bioscience discipline, with a strong microbiology focus
• Demonstrable experience working in a microbiology laboratory, ideally within an analytical or accredited environment
• Experience leading or managing teams, with the ability to motivate, develop, and support staff
• Experience working in a regulated laboratory environment with an understanding of quality systems and compliance requirements
• Knowledge of potable drinking water microbiology or environmental water testing is highly desirable
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to engage with staff, customers, auditors, and regulators
• Excellent organisation and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities

Desirable
• Chartered status with a recognised professional microbiology or bioscience body (e.g. Royal Society of Biology or Institute of Biomedical Science). Candidates who are not yet Chartered should be willing to work towards Chartered status within 6–12 months of appointment.

What we offer

• 25 days annual leave (rising to 30) plus 8 public holidays
• Option to buy additional annual leave
• Enhanced company sick pay scheme
• Salary progression scheme based on technical and behavioural competencies
• Celebrating Success recognition awards
• Perkbox membership with retail discounts and wellbeing resources
• Professional membership fees covered (e.g. Royal Society of Biology)
• Learning and study support
• Group personal pension plan

Working at ALS

The ALS team is a diverse and dedicated community united by our passion to make a difference in the world.

Our values are important to us, and shape how we work, how we treat each other and how we recognise excellence. 

At ALS, you’ll be supported to develop new skills and reach your full potential. We invest in our people with programs and opportunities that help you build a diverse career with us. 

We want everyone to have a safe, flexible and rewarding career that makes a positive impact on our people, the planet and our communities.

Everyone Matters

ALS is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment where the strengths and perspectives of each employee are both recognised and valued.

ALS also welcomes applications from people with all levels of ability. Reasonable adjustments to support candidates throughout the recruitment process are available upon request. 

Eligibility
To be eligible to work at ALS you must be a Citizen or Permanent Resident of the country you are applying for, or either hold or be able to obtain, a valid working visa.

How to apply
Please apply on-line and provide a resume & cover letter that best demonstrate your motivation and ability to meet the requirements of this role.