Sample Prep Technician
Join ECT's Leicester laboratory as a Sample Prep Technician. Prepare accredited environmental samples, support asbestos screening, and build a career in analytical and environmental testing
The role
With laboratory facilities in Leicester and Poole, Environmental Chemistry Testing Limited (ECT), part of the Phenna Group, partners with clients across the UK to deliver a comprehensive range of chemistry and microbiology testing services. Our expertise supports projects across the construction sector, including residential and commercial developments, rail and road infrastructure, airports, tunnelling, mining, utilities, and brownfield regeneration.
We are seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Sample Prep Technician to join our Sample Preparation Department at our Leicester city centre laboratory.
The Sample Prep Team plays a vital role in the laboratory operation, preparing MCERTS- and UKAS-accredited sub-samples for extraction and analysis. The department also acts as the first line of defence in identifying potential asbestos contamination, ensuring the highest standards of safety and compliance are maintained.
This position offers an excellent opportunity to develop a long-term career within environmental laboratory testing. Alongside core sample preparation responsibilities, successful candidates will have the opportunity to broaden their technical skills and progress into areas such as asbestos analysis (also obtaining a P401 qualification) and instrumental analytical techniques within the wider sample prep operations.
Responsibilities
Preparation of soil, water and construction material samples ready for chemical analysis
Ensure all tasks are carried out to high standards of safety, quality and efficiency
Follow all procedural requirements as set out by the ISO17025 Quality Management System
Ensure adequate and proper records are kept and stored correctly
Ensure equipment is checked, cleaned, calibrated and suitable for use
Specific requirements
Good oral, written and numeracy skills
GCSE grade C / 5 or above in maths and science
Computer literate
Previous laboratory experience would be advantageous
Your Journey with ECT
At ECT we offer a career not just a job. In your first six months you will develop your basic lab prep skills as well as become fully proficient in a range of duties as a Sample Prep Technician. On successfully passing your 4-month probationary period, you will automatically progress to Level 2.
Once at Level two, your skills and knowledge will grow further. Within around 12 - 18 months your next step is Level 3, to achieve this level you will be able to demonstrate the ability to work autonomously completing all required tasks correctly and on time.
From Level 3 onwards each progression step is matched with a pay rise ensuring that your personal development is kept step in step with your earnings. The speed at which you progress is ultimately down to you and how you apply yourself in the role.
What we offer
Starting salary £26,436.80 (paid at £12.71 per hour)
40 hour working week
Any overtime worked paid at 1.3 times basic rate of pay
25 days annual leave (plus bank holidays)
Workwear provided
Healthcare plan
Contributory pension scheme
Perkbox rewards platform
Cycle to work scheme
Tech pack purchasing scheme
Personal development and training
Enjoyable and fulfilling work environment
Our Values
Think Customer
Our customer is the focus of everything we do and through them we maximise our reputation and growth.
Speed and Agility
Own it. Be Bold. Take Action. Get it done.
Be Transparent
We are open and honest and act with integrity at all times.
Work Together
We work and collaborate as one team and look out for our fellow colleagues.
Act Responsibly
Fearless in taking accountability, we give responsibility to other and treat everyone with courtesy dignity and respect.
Be Proud
We celebrate our achievements, learn from our experiences, and take pride in all we do.
About Phenna Group
Headquartered in Nottingham, UK, Phenna Group's aim is to invest in and partner with selected niche, independent Testing, Inspection, Certification and Compliance (TICC) companies that serve a variety of sectors, ensuring customers' peace of mind by delivering first class assurance and consultancy services. With a diverse portfolio of companies across the Built Environment, Infrastructure, Niche Industrials, Food and Life Sciences and Compliance and Certifications, Phenna Group is dedicated to supporting customers in regulated sectors by delivering mission-critical services with a focus on quality and deliverability.
- Locations
- ECT - Leicester
About Environmental Chemistry Testing Limited
ECT is a leading provider of environmental chemistry and water microbiology testing services, supporting clients across the UK with accurate, reliable, and timely analytical solutions. Our laboratories combine technical expertise with responsive customer service to help organisations meet regulatory requirements, manage environmental risks, and make informed decisions. Through a commitment to quality, innovation, and continuous improvement, ECT delivers trusted testing services that protect people, the environment, and public health.