A Graduate Chemist at HQW Aerospace responsible for conducting chemical and materials testing, monitoring manufacturing processes, investigating quality issues, and supporting continuous improvement in precision bearing production.About us:HQW Aerospace is a world-renowned manufacturer of super precision bearings, pushing the boundaries of innovation and precision engineering for over 75 years. We're committed to nurturing talent. Situated in the vibrant city of Plymouth, surrounded by the picturesque landscapes of Cornwall, we offer not only a stimulating work environment but also a lifestyle that blends work with leisure seamlessly. With stunning beaches, vibrant culinary scenes, and a wealth of social and sporting activities, Plymouth and its surroundings provide an exceptional backdrop for both personal and professional growth. We foster a culture of innovation, collaboration and excellence, continually investing in the latest technologies to support our customers across the aerospace and precision engineering sectors.Job Purpose:The Graduate Chemist will support the business on a day-to-day basis through monitoring and testing of manufacturing processes and incoming materials, ensuring compliance with internal specifications and customer requirements. The role will involve supporting and participating in quality-related investigations, identifying root causes and implementing corrective and preventative actions. Using laboratory equipment and applying chemical and material science knowledge, the successful candidate will utilise technical problem-solving techniques to support continuous improvement and maintain product quality standards. This role provides an excellent opportunity for a recent Chemistry, Materials Science, or related STEM graduate to develop laboratory, quality assurance, and technical problem-solving skills within a manufacturing environment Key Responsibilities: Maintain effective relationships with key suppliers and relevant academic institutions to ensure the business remains aligned with industry best practice and emerging technologies.Carry out routine chemical analysis of production and assembly fluids, ensuring fluid cleanliness and concentration levels remain within specified limits. Utilise analytical techniques including FTIR, auto titration, laser particle counting, and SEM/EDS analysis.Analyse fluid monitoring data and maintain accurate records to recommend appropriate Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) intervals for production fluids used across the site.Maintain FTIR reference records for customer-facing lubricants and greases and verify the conformity of incoming materials against approved specifications.Prepare samples for microstructural analysis and, in conjunction with the Materials Engineer, assess compliance with internal and customer quality standards.Conduct destructive testing and metallurgical examinations, including Nital etch surface testing, to verify the effectiveness and quality of manufacturing processes.Collaborate with internal stakeholders to investigate quality concerns, customer complaints, and manufacturing non-conformances, applying structured problem-solving techniques to identify root causes and corrective actions.Maintain laboratory equipment to a high standard, ensuring equipment remains calibrated, serviceable, and fit for purpose. Monitor and manage laboratory consumable stock levels.Identify opportunities for process improvement and support the evaluation and justification of new equipment, technologies, and laboratory capabilities.Knowledge:Awareness of manufacturing and production processes would be advantageous but is not essential.Knowledge of industrial or production chemistry principles.Awareness of industrial cleaning processes and contamination control techniques.Understanding of lubrication principles and tribology.Knowledge of analytical chemistry techniques and laboratory testing methods.Understanding of the safe handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals within a laboratory environment.Awareness of non-destructive testing (NDT) and destructive testing (DT) methods used in steel metallurgy and materials analysis.Skills:Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to produce clear technical reports and present findings to a range of stakeholders. Practical laboratory experience gained through academic study, projects, placements, or employment would be advantageous. Experience using microscopy techniques, including optical microscopy; exposure to SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) would be beneficial. Understanding and interpretation of FTIR spectroscopy results. Ability to apply structured problem-solving techniques to investigate issues, identify root causes, and support corrective actions. Strong analytical and data interpretation skills. Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively within a multidisciplinary team. Good organisational skills with the ability to maintain accurate records and manage multiple priorities. Qualifications:Achieved, or currently working towards, a Chemistry-related degree qualification (e.g. BSc Chemistry, BSc Analytical Chemistry, or MChem)A good understanding of laboratory techniques and scientific principles gained through academic study.Please Note: • HQW Aerospace currently does not hold a sponsorship licence. Therefore, all candidates must have the right to work in the UK. • Due to the nature of our business, security clearance may be required.Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Statement: At HQW Aerospace UK, we are committed to fostering a workplace that values and respects the diversity of all individuals. We believe that embracing equality, diversity and inclusion is not only the right thing to do but also essential
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