My Career: ‘Science-based careers are constantly evolving because of advances in tech’

Name: Anne Heffernan

Age: 66

Lives: Douglas, Cork.

Job title: Microbiology Lab Supervisor at Water Technology Ltd in Togher, Cork

Salary bracket: €45,000 - €60,000

Education background: Crosshaven Convent, Munster Technological University, Open University, and University College Cork.

Hobbies: Walking, reading and listening to music.

Describe your job in five words: Interesting, rewarding, precise,and occasionally challenging.

Describe yourself in five words: Professional, adaptable, resourceful, supportive, and enthusiastic.

Personality needed for this kind of work?

Curiosity and interest in science are a great starting point. If you genuinely enjoy the subject, studying and developing your skills becomes much easier. Attention to detail, patience and strong communication skills are also essential, as lab work requires accuracy and teamwork.

How long are you doing this job? Over 40 years.

How did you get this job?

From a young age, I had a strong interest in science so you could say I ended up working in my dream job.

After completing my Leaving Cert, I got a summer job as a trainee laboratory technician with a company called Metals And Chemicals, based on Rossa Avenue in Cork. This lab tested soils for the mining industry, and also carried out chemical and bacteriological testing of well waters for the public.

A very skilled microbiologist, Dr Peadar O’Callaghan, trained me in water testing and encouraged my interest in the field. Thanks to his support and guidance, I went on to study science at the Regional Technical College, now known as Munster Technological University.

When Metals And Chemicals went into liquidation following the decline of the mining industry, a new company, founded by Dr Bernard Creedon, called Water Technology Ltd. purchased the laboratory equipment and offered me a position.

This was an excellent opportunity because it allowed me to continue working part-time while completing my studies. I have now worked with Water Technology for over 40 years. It has been a great company to work for and has supported my continued education in industrial engineering and food science and technology.

Science-based careers are constantly evolving because of advances in technology, so it’s important to remain open to learning and keep up to date with new developments.

Do you need particular qualifications or experience?

A science-based qualification is necessary. Attention to detail, patience, and a willingness to continue learning are all important qualities for this type of work.

Describe a day at work:

I usually begin the day by checking and responding to emails. Every Monday morning, we have a laboratory meeting where we discuss the plan for the week ahead.

We operate several specialist labs, including microbiology, chemical water testing, wastewater, and research and development. There is overlap between departments, and all staff are cross-trained so we can support one another during busy periods, holidays, or unexpected absences.

One of the first tasks of the day is preparing and sterilising the special mixtures used to cultivate microorganisms in water samples. A key part of our work is determining whether drinking water complies with EU drinking water standards. We closely monitor samples and record the results electronically.

Alongside drinking water analysis, I also carry out industrial process water testing for our water treatment and industrial detergent departments. This adds variety to the role because it often involves troubleshooting and helping solve cleaning and water-related issues for the industries we support. These companies are some of the largest multinationals in Ireland and across the globe and produce products such as infant formula, protein powders, and medicines.

How many hours do you work a week? Approximately 40 hours.

What do you wear to work?

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is essential for my role. I wear a lab coat, safety shoes, safety glasses, and gloves - high fashion in the lab!

Is your industry male or female-dominated?

It is fairly evenly balanced now, although when I first started working, it was much more male-dominated.

Does this affect you in any particular way?

No. Male or female, people are people, and in my experience, most people are good to work with.

Is your job stressful?

I would rate it around 3 out of 10, with the occasional peak of 8 during exceptionally busy periods.

Overall, I don’t find the work stressful. I have been with the company for many years and work with support colleagues. We collaborate well as a team, and information and resources are available when needed.

Do you work with others or on your own?

I spend a lot of time working independently, but my role also involves regular communication and collaboration with colleagues across different departments.

When do you plan to retire or give up working?

I have no immediate retirement plans.

Best bits:

Being part of a dynamic company. Water Technology has been operating for 50 years, and the phrase “continuous improvement” genuinely reflects how the company works. Things are always changing and improving, which keeps the work interesting.

Water Technology is also a very family-oriented company. I was able to raise a family of three while working full-time and always felt supported in balancing both family and career.

Worst bits:

At times, the workload can be uneven. For example, one day the number of samples arriving may exceed expectations, creating a high-intensity workload because samples need to be processed within a short time-frame.On other days, sample numbers are much lower, and the pace slows considerably.

A more even flow of work would be ideal, but in lab work that’s not always possible.

Advice to those who want your job?

Go for it. If you are interested in science and willing to put in the effort, you can do it.

Science offers many different career paths and opportunities to continue learning throughout your working life.