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- Tasks: Join our team to innovate and develop new chemical formulations in a hands-on lab environment.
- Company: Cranleigh STEM connects talented individuals with leading companies in the science and technology sectors.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, work in a dynamic environment, and enjoy opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of exciting product development that makes a real impact in the industry.
- Qualifications: Degree in polymer engineering, chemistry, or materials science preferred but not essential.
- Other info: Hands-on experience with formulation development is a plus; proficiency in Microsoft Office required.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 84000 £ per year.
Cranleigh STEM is seeking a motivated and ambitious Senior R&D Chemist to join our client's team. This role combines hands-on laboratory work with desk-based and field research, requiring both technical expertise and a proactive approach to product development.
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct research and development of new formulations to meet customer specifications.
- Improve and refine existing formulations, including alternative raw materials.
- Work both independently and under direction to develop innovative solutions.
- Maintain a strong understanding of raw materials, including functionality, health & safety, and legislative requirements.
- Utilise knowledge of PVC plastisols (foamed, solid, highly filled, and other functionalities).
- Apply experience with formulation and functional variations of: Liquid Silicone materials / Elastomers, Liquid Polyurethane Rubber materials, Acrylic Plastisols.
- Perform QC and physical testing, ensuring product consistency and compliance.
- Provide QA/QC support during staff absences or holidays as needed.
Skills & Experience:
- Preferably educated to a degree level in polymer engineering, chemistry, materials science or a related field (not essential).
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
- Strong background in polymer chemistry, particularly PVC plastisols.
- Hands-on experience with formulation development and testing methodologies.
This role offers the opportunity to contribute to innovative product development while gaining valuable experience in a dynamic environment.
Locations
Senior R&D Chemist employer: Cranleigh STEM, Sustainability & SHEQ Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Cranleigh STEM, Sustainability & SHEQ Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior R&D Chemist
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the polymer chemistry field. Attend industry conferences or local meetups to connect with others who work with PVC plastisols and formulation development. This can help you gain insights into the latest trends and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on the latest research and advancements in polymer engineering and materials science. Subscribe to relevant journals or follow influential researchers on social media to demonstrate your passion and knowledge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific projects where you've successfully developed or improved formulations. Be ready to explain your thought process, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them, as this will showcase your hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the company's products and their applications. Understanding their current offerings and any gaps in the market can help you propose innovative ideas during your interview, showing that you're proactive and well-prepared.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior R&D Chemist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in polymer chemistry and formulation development. Emphasise any hands-on laboratory work and specific projects that align with the responsibilities of the Senior R&D Chemist role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for research and development in the chemical field. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to improve formulations and your understanding of raw materials, particularly PVC plastisols.
Highlight Technical Skills: In your application, clearly outline your technical skills, especially your proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and any experience with QC and physical testing. This will show that you are well-equipped for the role.
Showcase Problem-Solving Abilities: Provide examples in your application of how you've developed innovative solutions in past roles. This could include specific challenges you faced in formulation development and how you overcame them, demonstrating your proactive approach.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cranleigh STEM, Sustainability & SHEQ Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of polymer chemistry, especially PVC plastisols. Highlight any specific projects or formulations you've worked on that demonstrate your hands-on experience and understanding of raw materials.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Expect questions that assess your ability to develop innovative solutions. Prepare examples of challenges you've faced in formulation development and how you approached them, showcasing your proactive mindset.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Relevant Regulations
Since the role involves health & safety and legislative requirements, brush up on relevant regulations in the industry. Being able to discuss these confidently will show your commitment to compliance and safety in product development.
✨Prepare for Practical Assessments
Given the hands-on nature of the role, be ready for potential practical assessments or technical questions. Review your testing methodologies and be prepared to explain how you ensure product consistency and compliance.
