Technician 1

This role is located in our business unit, IAS Laboratories, within the Cawood ScientificAgriculture Division. IAS Laboratories, part of Cawood Scientific, is an environmental and agricultural testing laboratory with extensive experience of water, soil, compost, sludge and silage issues. We have a long track record of delivering successful long term testing, monitoring and sampling project around Ireland. IAS Laboratories provide value added professional services addressing the environmental, technical and commercial challenges faced in this dynamic environment. Learn more about IAS Laboratories by clicking here.

Job Description:

Job Requisition

Position Title

Multi-Skilled Technician I - Soil Preparation, Inventory Management & Sample Subcontracting

Department

Laboratory Operations

Location

IAS Laboratories, part of Cawood
Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow

Reports To

Site Lead

Employment Type

Fixed-Term Contract (6 Months)
40 Hours per Week

Salary

€30,080 per annum

Position Summary

IAS Laboratories, part of Cawood, is seeking a motivated and flexible Multi-Skilled Technician I to support our laboratory operations during the busy soil testing season. This is a hands-on hybrid role combining soil sample preparation, inventory management, and coordination of subcontracted laboratory testing.

The successful candidate will play a key role in ensuring soil samples are prepared accurately and efficiently for analysis while also managing the daily organisation, tracking, and dispatch of samples requiring subcontracted testing. This position offers a varied workload and would suit an individual who enjoys both practical laboratory support work and administrative coordination responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities

Soil Preparation

Soil Drying

• Ensure soil samples are loaded into dryers in accordance with laboratory schedules.
• Verify that samples have reached the required dryness prior to processing.

Soil Grinding & Sample Organisation

• Operate grinding equipment to prepare soil samples to laboratory specifications (2mm).
• Organise processed samples accurately according to analytical suite requirements.
• Maintain numerical sequence and sample traceability throughout the preparation process.

Sample Weighing

• Weigh soil samples for nutrient and environmental testing following laboratory procedures.
• Prepare sample aliquots for phosphorus, potassium, S10, SHM and other analyses.
• Ensure all samples are accurately labelled and recorded.

Extraction & Filtration Support

• Prepare extraction batches using Morgan's solution.
• Operate laboratory shakers and support extraction processes.
• Perform filtration activities and transfer prepared samples for laboratory analysis.

Robotic Analysis Preparation

• Weigh and prepare samples for automated laboratory analysers.
• Organise trays and batches according to laboratory workflows and quality requirements.

Inventory Management

• Conduct routine inventory checks within the laboratory.
• Monitor stock levels of consumables, reagents, containers and laboratory supplies.
• Notify management of replenishment requirements.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives aimed at improving inventory control and workflow efficiency.

Sample Subcontracting Coordination

• Review samples identified for subcontracted testing.
• Verify test requests against customer documentation and LIMS records.
• Coordinate sample registration with external partner laboratories.
• Prepare, label, package and dispatch samples in accordance with laboratory procedures.
• Arrange courier collections and maintain shipment records.
• Track subcontracted samples and liaise with external laboratories regarding sample status and testing progress.
• Maintain accurate documentation and ensure complete sample traceability.

Health, Safety & Quality

• Follow all laboratory Health & Safety procedures.
• Comply with manual handling requirements.
• Adhere to ISO and company quality standards.
• Maintain clean and organised work areas.
• Participate in continuous improvement and Kaizen initiatives.

Physical Requirements

This role involves routine manual handling activities including:

• Lifting and moving soil trays (approximately 5kg).
• Lifting and moving soil sample crates (approximately 8kg).
• Standing for extended periods during sample preparation activities.
• Operating manual handling equipment and trolleys provided to support safe working practices.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Good organisational and time-management skills.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to follow standard operating procedures.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills.
• Competent IT skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Willingness to perform both laboratory and administrative tasks.

Desirable Skills & Experience

• Previous laboratory experience.
• Experience working with LIMS systems.
• Experience coordinating shipments, logistics or sample tracking.
• Knowledge of inventory control processes.
• Experience in agricultural, environmental or analytical laboratory settings.

Working Hours

• 40 hours per week.
• Typical working patterns:
  • 08:00 to 16:00, or
  • 09:00 to 17:00
• 15-minute morning break.
• 30-minute lunch break.
• Bank holidays observed.

Career Opportunity

This position is initially offered as a six-month fixed-term contract to support seasonal laboratory demand. For the right candidate, there may be opportunities for contract extension and future permanent employment, subject to business requirements and performance.

Why Join IAS Laboratories?

At IAS Laboratories, part of Cawood, we support Irish agriculture and environmental stewardship through high-quality analytical services. We are committed to safety, continuous improvement, customer service excellence, and developing our people through diverse and rewarding career opportunities.