Lead R&D Chemist

Lead Research & Development Chemist

39 hours per week

Competitive Salary

An established polyurethane systems manufacture based in Accrington is looking for a full time senior research & development chemist to work in their technical department on a permanent basis. 

Key Responsibilities of the Lead R&D Chemist:

The successful candidate will lead the laboratory team to carry out research and development of polyurethane based products and raw materials.

• Lead the development of new polyurethane formulations in various product areas such as sprayfoams, structural insulation panel foam, cast elastomers, polyureas and prepolymers.
• Liaise with existing and potential raw material suppliers.
• Organise ongoing calibration and maintenance of laboratory equipment.  
• Laboratory testing and assessment of polyurethane chemical raw materials and formulated systems.
• Develop, prepare and test development samples of polyurethane system products in line with company test procedures.
• Following company procedures, set up required documents for new products, such as technical data sheets and safety data sheets.
• Quality control testing of products during manufacture.
• Verifying and communicating results obtained, to make appropriate entries in the required records and to generate reports for release to customers.
• Collect, receive and log in samples to the required systems for analysis.
• Maintain documentation as required to meet various accreditations such as ISO9001, ISO14001 and ISO45001

Job Qualifications:

• A degree or equivalent in a Chemistry based subject. However applicants with experience in the polyurethane industry will also be considered.
• The successful candidate will ideally have the following experience and attributes,
• Experience in a lab environment, preferably in the polyurethane industry would be an advantage.
• Experience and knowledge of polymer and related chemicals testing.
• Familiarity with KF and titration methodologies.
• General quality control testing experience.
• Good communication, problem solving and organisational skills.
• A full driving license.

Company Benefits:

• Life assurance
• 25 days holiday plus bank holiday
• Company Pension – 5% Employer contribution
• Medicash
• Long service awards

Additional Information:

If you would like to be considered for this Lead R&D Chemist position, please apply providing a CV and a Covering Letter (outlining your suitability for the role).