Sample Preparation Technician

Looking for a hands-on role where you can work with machinery, tools, and cutting-edge laboratory equipment? SGS is looking for a Sample Preparation Technician to join our specialist coatings and materials testing laboratory. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who enjoys practical work, has a keen eye for detail, and wants to develop technical skills within a global leader in testing, inspection and certification. You'll play a key role in preparing samples for laboratory testing, ensuring they are accurately machined, labelled, and ready for analysis. No two days are the same, and you'll have the chance to learn specialist techniques while working alongside an experienced technical team. What You'll Be Doing - Preparing test samples using cutting, drilling, milling and hand tools - Operating equipment including a CNC mini mill - Preparing coating, peel and cross-cut test samples - Supporting laboratory testing by ensuring samples are prepared accurately and on time - Maintaining sample identification and traceability - Carrying out routine equipment checks and reporting issues - Helping maintain a clean, organised and safe laboratory environment - Working closely with laboratory teams to meet project deadlines What We're Looking For We're looking for someone who enjoys practical, hands-on work and takes pride in producing high-quality results. You'll be comfortable working with tools, machinery or technical processes and have a strong focus on accuracy, safety and attention to detail. This role could suit candidates from backgrounds such as: - Engineering - Manufacturing - Production - CNC machining - Workshop or fabrication environments - Skilled assembly - Laboratory support - Technical or mechanical roles You'll ideally have: - Experience using hand tools, power tools, machinery or workshop equipment - Good practical skills and manual dexterity - A methodical approach with excellent attention to detail - The ability to follow procedures and technical instructions accurately - Good organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks - A strong focus on quality and safety - GCSE Maths and English (or equivalent) Experience with CNC milling, drilling, cutting equipment, sample preparation, machining, engineering or laboratory work would be beneficial, but we're equally interested in people with transferable practical skills and a willingness to learn.