Laboratory Assistant
Laboratory Assistant — Leatherhead, Surrey
Salary: £23,000 – £26,500, depending on age/experience (full training provided)
Hours: Full-time, 37.5 hrs/week, Monday–Friday
Location: On-site, Leatherhead
Reporting to: Senior Microbiologist
Start: ASAP
Cara Technology holds the largest collection of brewing yeast in the world — 850 strains, built up over almost 130 years, trusted by breweries globally since 1881. We're expanding our microbiology team to keep pace with new projects and increasing demand — this is a new role, not a replacement.
This is a genuine entry point into laboratory science: no experience needed, full training given, and a real path into learning yeast microbiology from one of the world leaders in the field. You'll join a small, tight-knit team where you'll be trained directly by experienced microbiologists — not lost in a big department. Ideal for a school leaver or anyone with an interest in science or brewing looking to start a career, not just take a job.
What you'll do
- Prepare culture media and lab reagents following SOPs
- Log incoming samples accurately on our systems
- Monitor and maintain lab stock levels
- Wash, sterilise, and organise glassware and equipment
- Keep the lab clean, organised, and hygienic
- Maintain lab records and quality documentation
- Over time, train in yeast microbiology techniques and workflows
What we're looking for
- Tidy, methodical, and detail-focused
- Eager to learn, practical and hands-on
- Good team player and communicator
- Comfortable following hygiene and safety protocols
Nice to have (not essential)
- Further education in a scientific discipline
- Previous lab experience, especially microbiology
- Confidence with Excel (training available)
- Interest in beer or brewing
What you'll get
- 26 days holiday + bank holidays
- Company pension
- Enhanced sick, parental, and bereavement leave
- Flexible working hours where possible
- On-site parking
- Company events and socials
- Structured training and development