Job Description

KFS are one of the leading forensic providers in the UK. We pride ourselves on delivering a quality service and building strong working relationships with our customer base. Our team of forensic scientists are experienced in the interpretation and reporting of a wide range of evidence types in support of criminal investigations.



We are passionate about supporting the Criminal Justice system and want to hear from potential employees who share that same passion.



Please read the requirements of the job carefully as your application will be measured against them. Please ensure you have the experience we are looking for. This is a specialist role and as such we will only shortlist those with the relevant experience and attributes.

Position:

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Role Summary

To assist the toxicology department in the analysis of forensic specimens to determine the toxicological factors in the investigation of criminal offences (e.g. RTA offences, deaths, drug facilitated sexual assaults etc.) and Coronial cases.


To provide expertise, technical and practical support to the toxicology analytical team to facilitate the smooth running of the toxicology laboratory, including instrumentation maintenance and trouble-shooting, validation work and the implementation of new methods.



Duties and Responsibilities


Working under the instruction of the Analytical Team Leader and/or Shift Supervisor, the Toxicology Technical Specialist will be responsible for:

Ensuring equipment is maintained to specific schedules and monitoring the functioning of the equipment according to SOPs, recognising any problems and taking prompt remedial action to minimise equipment downtime. Calibrating equipment and instrumentation according to SOPs and ensuring up to date records are maintained. Interpret the data and prepare results to contribute to reports. Assisting the toxicology laboratory operational workflow when required. To support the team in a multitude of areas where required, including but not limited to, sample examination and extractions. Following anti-contamination procedures as appropriate and ensuring work areas are clean and orderly. The appropriate handling and recording of the drug reference standards in compliance with the laboratory's Home Office controlled drug licence. Delivering training to junior analytical team members when required. Monitoring and investigating Quality Control trend analysis, bias and failures and completing limit reviews when required. Advising on and carrying out quality investigations. Providing assistance to the Toxicology Research and Development team where required.

Requirements:

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Skills & Competencies

Good understanding of drug extraction techniques, notably LLE and SPE. A thorough understanding of chromatographic techniques (such as HS-GC-FID and LC-MS/MS). Troubleshooting LC-MS/MS and HS-GC-FID instrumentation, both hardware and software. A thorough understanding of good laboratory practice (including ISO17025 and FSR CoPC) and anti-contamination protocols is essential Technically minded and the ability to problem solve effectively. Customer focused with demonstrable commercial acumen. Strong IT capability to include Microsoft Office and excel with an ability to analyse data. Analytical thinking, including planning and scheduling. Ability to work independently and prioritize workload in an effective manner + Familiarity with AB Sciex, Thermo and/or Waters equipment


Personal Attributes

Demonstrates an understanding of the importance of casework in the context of the Criminal Justice System and the Codes of Practice of the Forensic Science Regulator. Highly motivated individual who approaches work with a positive attitude. Able to work on their own initiative and with exceptional attention to detail. Able to work under pressure and to tight deadlines. Understands the importance of the customer and contractual tender requirements. High level of honesty and integrity and takes responsibility for own actions. Strong work ethic and commitment. Team player with well-developed interpersonal skills, a positive attitude and a willingness to support others. Exceptional attention to detail. Uses own initiative to achieve timely completion of work. Ability to work methodically and reliably under pressure. Proactive in maintaining continual professional development where appropriate. Willingness to work flexibly in response to business requirements


Qualifications

Minimum of a degree in a scientific subject Previous working experience with HS-GC-FID and/or LC/MS within a laboratory, preferably a high-throughput environment.

Other information:

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Terms & Conditions


Hours - 37 per week


Holidays - 25 days per annum plus statutory holidays


Pension - Contributory


Employee Assistance Programme


Cycle to Work scheme


Retailer discounts


Location: Warrington

IN ORDER TO PASS OUR STRINGENT SECURITY VETTING YOU MUST HAVE RESIDED IN THE UK FOR THE PREVIOUS 5 YEARS FROM THE DATE OF YOUR APPLICATION. WE CANNOT CONSIDER APPLICANTS THAT HAVE NOT LIVED IN THE UK FOR THE PREVIOUS 5 YEARS AND YOUR APPLICATION WILL BE AUTOMATICALLY REJECTED.PLEASE ENSURE YOU HAVE A VALID RIGHT TO WORK IN THE UK DOCUMENT BEFORE PROCEEDING WITH YOUR ONLINE APPLICATION

KFS is committed to eliminating discrimination and encouraging diversity amongst our workforce. Our aim is that our workforce will be truly representative of all sections of society and each employee feels respected and able to give of their best. One of our goals is to work within an environment free from discrimination, harassment and prejudice. We aim to embed this in all of our recruitment and selection policies, procedures and practices.



The closing date for this position is 21 November 2025 at 17:30 but we reserve the right to end the vacancy earlier if we find enough suitable applicants to progress to the next stage.