Sample Dispatch Technician
External
Vwr · Cambridge, UKPrepare for this interview
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About the role
Executes day-to-day inventory & material management tasks at customer facilities, following a varied set of procedures. Tasks include the management and processing (storage, handling, inventory control and distribution) of critical materials used in laboratory and production environments, such as consumables, chemicals, solvents and reagents. Problems and issues are typically less concrete and frequently changing, like unexpected shortages of critical consumables due to supplier delays, differences between recorded inventory levels and actual stock, requiring an investigation into miscounts, misplaced items, or data entry errors, or expired chemicals or reagents that were not properly rotated, leading to waste and requiring adjustments to storage protocols. Problems and issues are solved by applying experience from comparable situations in the past and/or selecting solutions within known alternatives. Communicates inventory related information, activity records, service level metrics and other information requiring explanation or interpretation to team members, supervisors or customers. Cambridge, UK | The Discovery Centre - Bio‑Medical Campus Monday-Friday | 8:00-16:00 Fixed-term (Maternity Cover) | Full‑time Avantor is looking for a Sample Dispatch Technician to support the global shipment of R&D samples from our Cambridge site. This is a hands‑on, operational role focused on logistics, dispatch coordination, and shipment documentation. The position does not involve scientific research or experimentation, but plays a critical role in ensuring that samples are shipped safely, on time, and in full compliance with international regulations. This is a temporary position covering maternity leave (1 year) , offering an excellent opportunity to gain experience in a global operational environment.
Responsibilities
- Receive, prepare, and package samples (biological, chemical, and dangerous goods)
- Coordinate domestic and international shipments via air, road, and sea
- Prepare shipping documentation, labels, and customs paperwork in line with IATA / ADR / IMDG, CLP (GHS), and REACH requirements
- Proactively track shipments and resolve transport‑related issues
- Handle shipment‑related queries and collaborate with internal teams
- Manage dispatch materials and inventory
- Report KPIs and support operational tracking using Excel
- Support audits and continuous improvement initiatives
- Potential to deliver shipments between Cambridge sites using company vehicles
Requirements
- Secondary education (A-level or equivalent), preferably in a scientific or technical field
- Experience in logistics, shipping, or operational roles
- Knowledge of dangerous goods transport regulations is an advantage
- Strong attention to detail and ability to follow procedures
- Good communication skills and a collaborative mindset
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and basic reporting tools
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