Chemistry Lead Scientist (Food Chemistry)

Location: Linlithgow, UK; on-site laboratory role

Contract: fixed term ending 31/10/2027, 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 08:30–17:00

Company

hirify.global provides analytical testing services across food, water, pharmaceutical, and other life sciences industries.

What you will do

• Coordinate resources for daily food chemistry operations and technical projects.
• Act as the technical authority for food chemistry methods, analytical interpretation, and laboratory quality.
• Lead method development, improvement, validation, technology assessment, and method transfers.
• Provide scientific guidance, training, competency assessments, and technical support to laboratory staff and clients.
• Troubleshoot analytical and instrumentation issues, perform root cause analysis, and support corrective actions.
• Prepare and review protocols, reports, SOPs, analytical methods, and quality documentation.

Requirements

• Degree in Chemistry, Food Chemistry, or Science with significant chemistry experience, or equivalent laboratory experience.
• Significant experience in an ISO 17025 / UKAS-accredited laboratory.
• Experience with chromatography, wet chemistry, and immunoassay techniques; knowledge of GC, HPLC, or IC is advantageous.
• Experience working to controlled procedures, maintaining records, meeting turnaround times, and supporting method validation.
• Strong IT, communication, organisation, prioritisation, and technical documentation skills.
• Visa sponsorship is not available for this role.

Culture & Benefits

• Company pension plan and life assurance worth four times annual salary.
• Healthcare cash plan after six months of service.
• Additional annual leave, enhanced family leave, and a 24/7 employee assistance programme.
• Health and wellbeing programmes, free parking, and worldwide career opportunities.
• Commitment to diversity, inclusion, employee development, and charitable activities.

Hiring process

• Assessment centre or staged interview process depending on the role requirements.