Location: Southampton (On-site)
Contract: Temporary contract until September 2027 with possibility for extension
Pay: £18.51 per hour (PAYE)
Hours: 35 hours per week (Monday to Friday)
About the Role
We are seeking a highly organised and detail-focused individual to join our client's state-of-the-art Research & Development facility in Southampton. Working within the Anti-Illicit Trade (AIT) Forensics and Compliance Team, you will play a key role in supporting the protection of globally recognised brands by helping to identify counterfeit products and maintain confidence in product authenticity worldwide.
As counterfeit products continue to become increasingly sophisticated, this position is critical in ensuring the accurate handling, authentication and management of research samples, alongside the secure processing of confidential information received from international markets, law enforcement agencies and external partners.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone with strong administrative skills, excellent attention to detail and an interest in compliance, forensic processes or regulated environments.
Key Responsibilities
- Receive, process and accurately record incoming research samples.
- Sort and authenticate products following established procedures and training.
- Support the team by providing timely updates on sample receipt to assist with workload planning and prioritisation.
- Maintain product stock levels and support inventory management activities.
- Assist with customs compliance, document retention processes and product destruction procedures.
- Ensure accurate filing, archiving and record management in line with company and legal requirements.
- Input and maintain case-related information within internal and external databases.
- Review records for discrepancies, investigate inconsistencies and update information as required.
- Liaise with export teams to coordinate the return of samples to requestors.
- Maintain training materials and reference libraries to ensure information remains current.
- Communicate effectively with colleagues regarding progress, priorities and any issues impacting deadlines.
- Provide administrative and operational support to the wider team as required.
What We're Looking For
Essential Skills & Experience
- Comfortable handling tobacco and non-tobacco products, including vaping and modern oral products.
- Experience managing multiple priorities within a fast-paced environment.
- Strong IT skills, including Microsoft 365 and database systems.
- Excellent organisational, communication and planning abilities.
- Ability to work independently while contributing positively within a team environment.
- High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
- Professional approach when dealing with internal stakeholders, external agencies, suppliers and law enforcement bodies.
- Positive, proactive attitude with a willingness to learn.
- Reliable and diligent, with the ability to follow processes and maintain accurate records in line with compliance requirements.
Qualifications
- Ideally educated to diploma or degree level in Forensic Science or a related discipline.
- Candidates with experience in data entry, stock control, audit, compliance, evidence/exhibit handling or similar administrative environments are also encouraged to apply.
Desirable
- Understanding of evidential continuity and the importance of maintaining accurate records for legal proceedings.
- Knowledge of forensic principles or broader forensic applications.
- Experience working within a regulated, quality-driven or compliance-focused environment.
What's on Offer?
- Opportunity to work within a world-class R&D facility in Southampton.
- Gain valuable experience supporting global anti-counterfeit and compliance activities.
- Work alongside forensic, compliance and research specialists in a highly professional environment.
