Smithers
Project Manager - Life Sciences

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Project Manager – Medical Device Testing (Shawbury)
Are you an experienced project manager with a scientific or engineering background, ready to take on complex, high-value projects within the fast-paced world of medical device testing. Smithers MDT, a global leader in life sciences and analytical testing, is looking for a Project Manager to join our dynamic team at our Shawbury site. This is an exciting opportunity to work across both UK and European operations, supporting cutting-edge projects and driving operational excellence.
As a Project Manager, you will play a pivotal role in the end-to-end management of client projects, from proposal through to delivery. You’ll be responsible for:
- Preparing quotes
- Managing scope changes
- Hosting programme management calls with clients, often liaising with technical and commercial stakeholders alike
Your ability to combine technical insight with commercial awareness will be key in delivering high-value proposals and ensuring projects are delivered on time and on budget.
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I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
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Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
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Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
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Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
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You’ll thrive in this role if you’re:
- Naturally proactive
- Highly organised
- Confident working independently
Our ideal candidate will bring at least four years of experience in a technical or project management role, ideally within a scientific, engineering, or quality-driven environment. A degree in a relevant discipline such as Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Forensic Science, or Mechanical Engineering is preferred, but equivalent industry experience is also welcome.
In this role, you’ll:
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams across our laboratories in the UK and Europe
- Support improvements to internal systems and processes
- Contribute to profitability reviews and strategic analysis
- Represent Smithers MDT at conferences and exhibitions, helping to raise our profile within the industry
This role offers an excellent opportunity to gain international exposure, with occasional travel to client sites, tradeshows and industry events across Europe and beyond.


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To succeed, you’ll need:
- Strong communication skills
- High attention to detail
- The ability to juggle multiple priorities in a commercial environment
Experience with client communication, risk assessments, CRM and PM software, and an understanding of medical device testing or laboratory practices would be a strong advantage. Foreign language skills such as French, German, or Spanish would also be beneficial, though not essential.
At Smithers, you’ll be part of a collaborative and forward-thinking team with access to a range of benefits including private BUPA medical insurance, a competitive salary, life insurance, and a generous pension scheme. We are proud to support the personal and professional development of our people, and we value curiosity, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
If you're looking for a meaningful role where science meets strategy, and where your expertise will make a real impact—then we’d love to hear from you.
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