At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct hands-on polymer synthesis and support scale-up for innovative products.
- Company: Leading chemical manufacturer known for innovation and sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 4-day work week, flexible hours, and clear career progression.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for hands-on learning and growth.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and work on cutting-edge polymer technologies with real-world impact.
- Qualifications: Degree in Chemistry or related field and practical experience in polymer synthesis.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Our client is a market-leading chemical manufacturer based in Newmarket, known for their innovation in polymer and materials chemistry. With a strong commitment to R&D, quality, and sustainability, they are looking to expand their technical team with a Process Chemist to support scale-up and manufacturing of new polymer products.
This is a hands-on role suited to someone with a background in chemistry or polymer science and practical experience in polymer synthesis at lab or pilot plant scale. You will be involved in the development, scale-up, and transfer of new polymer-based products from lab through to full-scale manufacturing, supporting both internal teams and external customers.
Key Responsibilities- Carry out laboratory synthesis and pilot plant manufacture of new polymer products.
- Operate and troubleshoot pilot plant equipment, including semi-batch processes and exothermic reaction scale-ups.
- Collaborate with QC teams to ensure robust test methods are in place and product quality is maintained through scale-up.
- Maintain clear and accurate process records and documentation.
- Work with Procurement to identify and qualify sources of new raw materials.
- Ensure all work is conducted in compliance with Health, Safety, and Environmental policies and regulations.
- Draft process documentation and support operator training as part of the lab-to-plant scale-up process.
- Host and liaise with external customers during trial production or site visits.
- Provide technical support to manufacturing and operations teams, contributing to process improvements and quality initiatives.
- Promote waste minimisation and drive efficiency improvements in processes.
- Participate in manual handling and physical aspects of the role, including carrying and lifting various materials.
- (Optional) Operate a forklift or be willing to undertake training.
The successful candidate will have:
- A degree (or higher) in Chemistry, Materials Science, Polymer Science, or a related discipline.
- Practical experience in organic or polymer synthesis, ideally including:
- Free radical polymerisation (solution and/or emulsion)
- Polyurethane chemistry
- Semi-batch processes
- Scale-up of exothermic reactions
- Process troubleshooting
- A solid understanding of chemical hazards, safe handling, and correct labelling of chemicals and waste.
- Awareness of confidentiality and data protection in commercial chemical development.
- Be part of an innovative and growing chemical business.
- Gain hands-on experience in both lab and pilot plant scale chemistry.
- Work on cutting-edge polymer technologies with commercial impact.
- Clear progression path in a collaborative and technically strong team.
- 4 day working week 09.00-17.00 – with flexibility on these hours if required.
Polymer Chemist in Bury St Edmunds employer: Cranleigh STEM, Sustainability & SHEQ Recruitment
Join a pioneering chemical manufacturer in Newmarket, where innovation meets sustainability. As a Polymer Chemist, you'll thrive in a collaborative environment that prioritises R&D and offers a clear progression path, all while enjoying the benefits of a 4-day working week. With hands-on experience in cutting-edge polymer technologies, you'll play a vital role in shaping the future of materials chemistry.
Contact Details:
Cranleigh STEM, Sustainability & SHEQ Recruitment Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Polymer Chemist in Bury St Edmunds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the polymer chemistry field on LinkedIn or at industry events. We can’t stress enough how valuable personal connections can be in landing that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and practical skills. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to get comfortable discussing your experience in polymer synthesis and troubleshooting.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for sustainability and innovation in your conversations. Companies like our client love candidates who align with their values, so let your enthusiasm for cutting-edge polymer technologies shine through!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for talented individuals to join our innovative team.
We think you need these skills to ace Polymer Chemist in Bury St Edmunds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience in polymer synthesis and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your skills!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about polymer chemistry and how you can contribute to our innovative team. Keep it engaging and personal – we love a bit of personality!
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Be specific about your technical expertise, especially in areas like free radical polymerisation or process troubleshooting. We’re looking for candidates who can hit the ground running, so let us know what you bring to the table!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re keen and ready to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cranleigh STEM, Sustainability & SHEQ Recruitment
✨Know Your Polymers
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of polymer chemistry, especially the processes mentioned in the job description like free radical polymerisation and polyurethane chemistry. Be ready to discuss your practical experiences with these methods and how they relate to the role.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Since troubleshooting is a key part of the job, prepare examples of past challenges you've faced in the lab or during scale-up processes. Highlight how you approached these issues and what solutions you implemented to overcome them.
✨Understand Safety Protocols
Familiarise yourself with health, safety, and environmental regulations relevant to chemical manufacturing. Be prepared to discuss how you ensure compliance in your work and any specific safety measures you've taken in previous roles.
✨Engage with the Team Spirit
This role involves collaboration with various teams, so be ready to talk about your experience working in a team environment. Share examples of how you've contributed to team projects and how you handle communication with both internal teams and external customers.
