Product Technology Chemist - Specialty Materials

Product Technology Chemist Graduate-friendly role focused on developing polymer-based product formulations, conducting laboratory analysis, supporting production trials and quality investigations, and optimizing manufacturing processes.

Overview:

We are seeking a talented and motivated Product Technology Chemist to join our small, dynamic team. This role offers an exciting opportunity to drive innovation through new product formulation while supporting production quality and process optimization.

Responsibilities:

• Product Development & Innovation:

• Develop new product formulations based on customer, market, and business requirements within a collaborative team environment.

• Coordinate and actively participate in production trials to validate new formulations.

• Provide technical support for new and existing downstream applications (occasional travel required).

• Laboratory Operations & Analysis:

• Perform safe, accurate laboratory analysis using advanced analytical equipment.

• Calibrate, maintain, troubleshoot, and optimize laboratory equipment performance.

• Prepare and manage internal standards and reagents.

• Support production with specialist quality control analysis, quality investigations, and Root Cause Analyses (RCAs).

• Technical Communication & Documentation:

  • Communicate results effectively through technical reports and presentations.

  • Support and maintain laboratory documentation including COSHH & SDS databases, SOPs, and 5S practices.

• Health, Safety & Compliance:

  • Demonstrate strict adherence to site Health & Safety policies and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) procedures.

  • Maintain a safe and organized laboratory environment.

• Professional Development:

  • Identify issues proactively, think creatively, and develop innovative solutions

  • Embrace continuous learning and professional development opportunities

Qualifications:

Education

• Preferred:Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, or Materials Science.

• Degrees in other scientific disciplines will also be considered.

• Recent graduates with relevant academic knowledge and strong willingness to learn are encouraged to apply.

Technical Knowledge & Skills

• Understanding of polymer chemistry (particularly biopolymers such as cellulose acetate) is highly desirable.

• Knowledge of formulation, thermoplastic polymer properties, and polymer processing technology/film manufacturing is advantageous.

• Strong practical, hands-on laboratory skills.

• Prior experience with analytical equipment including:

  • FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy)

  • UV-Vis Spectroscopy

  • GC-FID (Gas Chromatography with Flame Ionization Detection)

  • TD-GC (Thermal Desorption Gas Chromatography)

  • XRF (X-Ray Fluorescence)

  • Mechanical property testing equipment

• Proficiency with data handling and IT tools.

Personal Attributes

• Self-motivated with strong problem-solving abilities.

• Creative thinker with attention to detail.

• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal).

• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.

• Commitment to safety and quality standards.