Laboratory Chemist (Permanent) in Somerset, Taunton

Location: Taunton

Salary: £30,000-£35,000

Contract: 12-Month Fixed-Term (Maternity Cover)

Potential for Permanent Opportunity

We are exclusively supporting an established and growing manufacturing business in the recruitment of a Chemist to join their technical team on a 12-month maternity cover contract. This is an excellent opportunity for a scientifically qualified individual looking to develop their career in product development, laboratory testing and technical support within a collaborative manufacturing environment. There is genuine potential for this position to become permanent for the right person.

The Role

• Reporting directly to the Managing Director, you will play a key role in coordinating product trials, supporting research and development activities, and ensuring products meet quality and regulatory requirements.
• The position offers exposure across the full product lifecycle, from concept through to manufacture and launch, while working closely with colleagues across technical, purchasing, sales and marketing functions.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the research and development of new products and identify opportunities for product improvement.
• Coordinate production trials and laboratory testing, ensuring accurate documentation and records are maintained.
• Analyse trial data and prepare technical reports and presentations for senior management.
• Assist with regulatory compliance activities, including product registrations and technical documentation.
• Support products throughout the development process, from initial concept through to manufacturing and commercial launch.
• Collaborate with Purchasing on raw material evaluations and testing.
• Provide technical support to Sales and Marketing teams where required.
• Maintain and update technical databases relating to raw materials and product information.
• Undertake laboratory activities including quality control testing and preparation of development batches.
• Ensure all laboratory activities are carried out in accordance with Health & Safety procedures.
• Provide general technical support across the department and work collaboratively with colleagues to achieve business objectives.
• Undertake additional duties appropriate to the role as required.

About You

• A degree in Chemistry or another relevant scientific discipline.
• A strong scientific background with an interest in product development and laboratory work.
• Excellent organisational skills and exceptional attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• The ability to analyse data and produce clear technical reports and presentations.
• Confidence managing multiple priorities within a fast-paced environment.
• A proactive approach with the ability to work independently and use initiative.
• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications.
• A professional and collaborative approach to working with internal stakeholders.

What's on Offer

• Salary of £30,000 - £35,000 depending on experience.
• 12-month maternity cover with genuine potential for a permanent position.
• Exclusive opportunity with a well-established manufacturing business.
• Broad and varied technical role with exposure to product development and innovation.
• Supportive working environment with opportunities to broaden your technical expertise.

If you're a scientifically qualified individual looking for a varied technical role where you can make a real contribution to product innovation and development, we'd love to hear from you.