RateMyPlacement and RateMyApprenticeship are now Higherin: Learn More

Higherin

Associate Technical Specialist Review

at Charles River

Graduate Job

Pharmaceutical, Research, Science

Saffron Walden

Review Submitted: April 2026

Overall Rating

4.4 /5

The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!

4.5/5 - Overview of the Role
4.2/5 - Experience & Company Culture
5/5 - Recommendations & Advice

Overview of the Role

Overall, how would you describe your experience at Charles River?
My experience at Charles River has been very positive, when I first started, I was welcomed by all, given plenty of support in my role. Am always feeling supported with my role and comfortable to getting involved within the department
What are the main responsibilities of the role and which elements of the role do you enjoy the most?
• Processing biological samples to determine concentration of novel compounds designed to treat a range of medical conditions
• Generate data to determine the pharmacokinetic profile of compounds and understand the relationships between concentration and effect in the supporting of predicting the dose required in humans whilst maintaining the safety margin
• Routine instrument/equipment validation and maintenance
• General laboratory housekeeping
To what extent does your role give you the opportunity to contribute meaningfully and feel valued by your team?
4/5
Consistently given the opportunity to contribute meaningful data to the team and wide group in aid of decision making for compounds to progress through the drug discovery process. Always feel well supported by my team and wider department
How does your compensation package - including perks & benefits - fairly remunerate you for the work you do?
5/5
The compensation package is well justified and flexible. Flexible working meaning I am about to shift/swap working days as required. Good access to pension, plenty of opportunities for growth and improvement, remote GP access and medical cover
How well do you feel the role is preparing you for your future career?
5/5
I feel that my role is definitely preparing me for my future career through laboratory experience gaining skills and knowledge for my development
How would you rate the extent to which you were developing new or existing skills through formal training and your day-to-day role?
4/5
Always getting on the job training that is allowing me to expand my understanding and knowledge around the work that I do

Experience & Company Culture

How is the support you receive?
4/5
Well-structured support systems in place and I feel comfortable going to anyone within my team or department for assistance when I require it whether it relates to lab-based questions, coursework or an understanding on how of why something is done a particular way
How is your work-life balance?
5/5
Very well balanced
What is the organisational culture, values and general atmosphere like?
4/5
There is a great sense of belonging with many site wide event and activities that are out on. Also do team building activities inside and outside of work.
How would you rate Charles River initiatives when it comes to equality, diversity, inclusion and accessibility?
4/5
Very well diverse with many different events put on for everyone to celebrate and get involved
How would you rate Charles River CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) initiatives?
4/5
There are plenty of opportunities that allow individuals to volunteer for local groups. Always looking for ways to improve processes

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend Charles River to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Great place to work, great benefit packages and very well supported by my colleagues
How well did the role match your expectations based on the recruitment process?
5/5
The role matched my expectations from the recruitment process as it was outlined clearly what the role was for and the expectations required as part of the role.
When considering the recruitment & onboarding process, have you any specific tips or advice you would give to others applying to Charles River?
Research around the company and role so you have a good understanding of what the company does and what the role would involve
In This Review
Join Now

Join the Higherin Community

Save Time

Easily add jobs from Higherin or external platforms to keep everything organised.

Personalised Alerts

Get tailored job recommendations and updates straight to your inbox.

Exclusive Features

Access tools like application tracking, deadline reminders, and saved searches.

Stay Ahead

Be the first to know about the latest opportunities and deadlines.

Completely Free

Create an account and unlock powerful features at no cost.