Development Chemist

Development Chemist

Letchworth Full-Time 30000 - 42000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the design and development of innovative resin flooring products from concept to manufacturing.
  • Company: Altro is a family-owned leader in premium flooring solutions since 1919, valuing quality and diversity.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, 25 days annual leave, free eye tests, and family-friendly policies.
  • Why this job: Join a supportive team, drive innovation, and make a real impact in the construction industry.
  • Qualifications: Degree in Chemistry or Materials Science, with experience in laboratory testing and resin applications preferred.
  • Other info: Work on-site occasionally and engage in social events, including an annual Christmas celebration.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.

We’re looking for a Development Chemist to join our Technical team here at Altro, a leading British manufacturer of premium flooring and wall cladding systems. We’ve been family-owned since 1919, and our purpose is simple: to transform spaces and enhance wellbeing. We care about our people, our customers, and doing things the right way. The role is a full time (37.5 hours per week), permanent position, working from our Letchworth Garden City head office, with occasional travel to our Altro Resins site in Dorset.

About The Role

  • Leading the design and development of new products from concept to manufacture
  • Enhancing existing products for performance, compliance, and efficiency
  • Staying ahead of evolving legislation and industry standards
  • Collaborating with suppliers and customers to define technical specifications
  • Conducting rigorous lab testing to meet UK and international benchmarks
  • Resolving performance issues using structured problem‑solving and root cause analysis
  • Supporting manufacturing, logistics, sales, and customer service with expert technical input
  • Documenting installation techniques and ensuring consistent product application
  • Managing external testing logistics and compliance documentation
  • Benchmarking Altro products against competitors to inform strategy
  • Evaluating raw materials for suitability and cost‑effectiveness
  • Leading investigations into product complaints and driving improvements
  • Championing health and safety aligned with Altro’s Zero Harm vision

Benefits

Enhanced family friendly benefits, including Maternity, Paternity and Shared Parental Leave.

Holidays: We all need a break, and our holiday entitlement starts at 25 days plus bank holidays. You can buy additional days.

Employee Benefits Hub: Exclusive discounts with our retail partners to support employees during these challenging times.

Learning and Development: A comprehensive programme of in‑house training and coaching, plus access to external courses.

Pension: A defined contribution pension scheme available to all staff. The minimum contribution level is 4%, matched by the company; higher contributions up to 6% are also matched in line with length of service.

Life Assurance: Covered from day one, paying up to four times your annual salary.

Occupational Health: Occupational Sick Pay and an onsite Occupational Health Service to help you get back on track.

Employee Assistance Programme: A 24‑hour helpline to support you through any life’s issues. Services are confidential, reliable and available on the phone, online or in person; some services also cover household members.

Volunteering: A paid day each year to volunteer for a healthcare‑related charity/organisation.

Social Events: Various group events, including the company Christmas party.

Retirement Planning: Advice and support to ease the transition to retirement.

Eye Care: Free eye tests for all employees.

Long Service: Awards for long service.

Parking: Free car parking at all sites.

Additional Benefits (depending On Your Role)

Hybrid Working: Flexibility around both home and office work.

Car Allowance: Certain positions entitle you to a car allowance.

Private Medical Scheme: Coverage depends on your job.

Requirements

  • A degree in Chemistry (BSc Hons)
  • Industrial manufacturing experience
  • Strong understanding of formulations, raw materials, and processes
  • Excellent communication, problem‑solving, and project management skills
  • A proactive, confident team player with high integrity
  • Willingness to travel (clean driving licence required)
  • Experience with PVC coatings or resins is a plus

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Development Chemist employer: Altro Limited

At Altro, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a dynamic and innovative work environment for our Development Chemist role in Letchworth Garden City. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide tailored learning and development support, competitive benefits including generous annual leave and family-friendly policies, and a culture that celebrates diversity and inclusion. Join us to be part of a family-owned company that values your contributions and fosters a sense of belonging.
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Contact Detail:

Altro Limited Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Development Chemist

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in resin products and their applications. This knowledge will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the field and the company.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the industry, especially those who work with resin products. Attend relevant events or join online forums to connect with potential colleagues and gain insights that could be beneficial for your application.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss specific examples of your laboratory testing experience and how you've ensured compliance with industry standards. Being able to articulate your problem-solving skills with real-life scenarios will set you apart from other candidates.

✨Tip Number 4

Research Altro's values and culture to align your responses during interviews. Understanding their commitment to quality and diversity will help you convey how you can contribute positively to their team.

We think you need these skills to ace Development Chemist

Degree in Chemistry or Materials Science
Knowledge of resin products and applications
Laboratory testing experience
Understanding of industry standards and compliance
Problem-solving skills
Attention to detail
Effective communication skills
Project management skills
Ability to collaborate with suppliers and customers
Familiarity with product development processes
Adaptability to new technologies
Quality improvement methodologies
Research and analytical skills
Staying updated on industry trends and regulations

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in chemistry, materials science, and any specific knowledge of resin products. Use keywords from the job description to demonstrate that you meet the requirements.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for product development and innovation. Mention specific projects or experiences that relate to the role and explain how you can contribute to Altro's goals.

Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, emphasise your laboratory testing experience, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail. Provide examples of how you've ensured compliance with industry standards in previous roles.

Show Enthusiasm for the Company: Research Altro and mention what excites you about their products and values in your application. Demonstrating knowledge about the company will show your genuine interest in the position.

How to prepare for a job interview at Altro Limited

✨Showcase Your Technical Knowledge

Make sure to brush up on your knowledge of resin products and their applications in construction and transport. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your experience that demonstrate your understanding of the industry standards and compliance requirements.

✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills

Prepare to share instances where you've successfully tackled challenges in product development or laboratory testing. Highlight your analytical thinking and how you approach problem-solving, as this is crucial for a Development Chemist role.

✨Emphasise Communication Skills

Effective communication is key in this role, especially when collaborating with suppliers and customers. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, and be ready to discuss how you've effectively communicated technical specifications in past projects.

✨Stay Updated on Industry Trends

Research current trends and regulations in the resin flooring industry before your interview. Being knowledgeable about recent advancements will show your passion for the field and your commitment to continuous learning, which is highly valued by Altro.

Development Chemist
Altro Limited
Location: Letchworth
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