Lead Software Developer, SampleManager LIMS (x2)
Location: Remote
Day Rate: £530/day, Inside IR35
Duration: 6 months, extension possible
Clearance: SC required (essential for server access)
Sector: Public
A government programme is looking for two experienced Lead Developers with specific LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) expertise. They will increase development capacity and provide specialist technical LIMS experience for any outputs of the LIMS upgrade project that touch the programme. You’ll work closely with the existing LIMS support and development team and across the wider delivery group.
We need developers with experience of Thermo Fisher SampleManager (LIMS) v12.1 and v21.3. Experience of both is desirable but not essential, because v21.3 is the target upgrade version. Experience of at least one SampleManager version is essential.
A SampleManager developer is not just a typical coder. The role is a mix of software development (VGL, C#/.NET and SQL), system configuration (a core platform skill), integration engineering and regulatory-aware system design.
Core technical skills
1. Programming and development
• VGL, the native coding language in the current version of SampleManager
• C#/.NET Framework, the primary language for extending and customising SampleManager (forms, logic, DLLs)
• Object-oriented programming, for modular LIMS extensions and workflows
• API and web service development, including XML, SOAP and HTTP integrations
2. Database and data management
• SQL (essential): querying, validation and troubleshooting against the SampleManager data model
• Relational databases: Oracle in the current version, being upgraded to PostgreSQL. Understanding of schemas, stored procedures and performance tuning
• Data integrity and audit: audit trails, versioning and traceability
3. SampleManager platform
• LIMS configuration, which is at times more important than pure coding. SampleManager is heavily configuration-driven, but this LIMS has been heavily custom coded, and experience of that is essential
• Key tools and modules: Entity Designer/Explorer, Workflow Designer (Visual Workflow), Forms Designer, Labels, Reports, dashboards and scheduling
• Workflow development: design and automate laboratory workflows and procedures
• Module development: sample workflows, stock management, instrument modules and more
4. Systems integration
• Instrument integration: connecting lab instruments (eg HPLC, GC, analysers) to the LIMS
• Enterprise integration with ERP, MES, ELN and SDMS systems, using Middleware and integration tools
• REST and SOAP interfaces for external systems and services
5. Software engineering and lifecycle
• SDLC: design, development, testing, deployment and support
• Testing and QA: unit testing, system testing and validation in regulated environments
• Version control of configuration and code
• Troubleshooting and root cause analysis
6. Reporting and data visualisation
• Custom reports, dashboards and KPIs, using built-in and external tools
• Interpreting lab data and presenting insights
7. Regulatory and compliance knowledge
• GxP, FDA 21 CFR Part 11, ISO 17025 and GMP
• Electronic signatures, audit trails and data validation processes
8. Infrastructure and environment
• Windows Server environments
• On-premise and cloud-hosted deployment models
• Security: authentication, authorisation and data protection
9. Analytical and domain skills
• Laboratory domain knowledge: lab workflows, SOPs and the sample lifecycle
• Business analysis: translating lab and user requirements into technical solutions
10. Soft skills
• Problem-solving and debugging
• Working with scientists and laboratory staff
• Documentation: technical specs and validation documents
Other essential requirements:
• Knowledge of laboratory information management systems and laboratory processes
• SC security clearance, required for server access
• Experience or knowledge of the agency’s laboratory environment
Note: This role requires SC clearance. The additional vetting may take longer than a standard onboarding process.
Location: , ,
CareerBoard: Apply Here