At a Glance
- Tasks: Support QA lab operations, troubleshoot production issues, and drive continuous improvement.
- Company: Join MacDermid Alpha Electronics Solutions, a leader in revolutionising the electronics industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, performance bonuses, pension, health cash plan, and 25 days holiday.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for learning and career advancement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment while growing your career in tech.
- Qualifications: A-level in Chemistry preferred; practical lab experience and IT skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Division: Packaging & Board Assembly - Polymer & Protection. Challenge Yourself and Impact the Future! MacDermid Alpha Electronics Solutions, a business segment of Element Solutions Inc (NYSE: ESI), is renowned worldwide for its commitment to revolutionizing the electronics industry. With a legacy spanning over a century, we have continually set new benchmarks for excellence, reliability and sustainability in electronic materials.
Who are we looking for? We are seeking a detail-oriented and quality-focused QA Chemist to carry out a range of laboratory-based projects to troubleshoot issues with production batches and continuously improve performance, ensuring repeatability, product quality and improved production efficiency, all driven from within the QA team.
What will you be doing?
- Support the day-to-day operation of the QA Laboratory, providing technical guidance and cover during absence of QA Technicians, as required.
- Lead and drive Measurement System Analysis (MSA) activities, including planning, execution, analysis, and reporting, to ensure data integrity and confidence in laboratory and production measurements.
- Support and maintain the internal calibration programme, including routine testing and verification of balances, scales, ovens, and other laboratory equipment, ensuring compliance with quality and regulatory requirements.
- Maintain, champion, and continuously improve good laboratory practices and housekeeping standards, including waste management, 5S principles, and audit readiness.
- Ensure all laboratory activities are conducted in accordance with the Company Quality Management System, SOPs, and data integrity requirements, with timely and accurate updating of electronic quality databases.
- Pro-actively assess raw materials approaching end of shelf life, performing re-validation testing where appropriate and providing clear quality-based recommendations to Procurement and Supply Chain.
Process improvement related activities:
- Monitor and trend current and historical batch production and raw material QA data, identifying adverse trends, initiating investigations, and implementing corrective and preventive actions.
- Lead investigations into failed batches and non-conforming results, applying structured root cause analysis methodologies (e.g. 5 Whys, Fishbone, CAPA) and working collaboratively with Production, Technical, and Procurement teams.
- Support and implement a culture of right-first-time and quality excellence in operations, in close co-operation with Production and Technical Teams.
- Actively participate in internal audits, quality reviews, and continuous improvement initiatives.
General:
- Work in full compliance with the Company Health & Safety policies, completing all required training and promoting safe working practices within the laboratory.
- Adhere to all company rules, regulations, and ethical standards, acting as a role model for quality-driven behaviour.
The role will involve working in laboratory and production environments and the wearing of PPE.
Who are You?
- Previous practical laboratory experience.
- A-level minimum in Chemistry is desirable.
- IT literate and competent with Microsoft Office or similar programs.
- Practical approach to work with the ability to set priorities and problem-solve.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to record, manipulate and analyse data with a view to generating detailed reports.
What competencies will you need?
- Highly detail-oriented, with a strong commitment to accuracy and precision.
- Quality-driven, taking pride in maintaining high standards and reliable outcomes.
- Methodical and disciplined, comfortable following procedures and structured processes.
- Safety-conscious, especially when working with laboratory equipment.
- Analytical and curious, interested in understanding data, trends, and root causes.
- Collaborative, able to work effectively with quality, production, and technical teams.
- Ability to work on own initiative and as part of a team, prioritising workload and meeting deadlines with a strong sense of urgency.
We are Offering... Challenge Yourself and Impact the Future – as part of our team you will receive a competitive base salary and participate in a generous performance-related bonus scheme. In addition, you will receive a company pension, life assurance, a health cash plan, and training and development, as well as 25 days holiday a year plus bank holidays. The Ashby site is situated close to the main motorway links and amenities; there is also free onsite parking. Career Growth – we provide a challenging, but rewarding experience to our people. You will have an opportunity to learn, grow and contribute from your very first day. Our teams play an important role enabling technological breakthroughs in high-growth industries worldwide. We continuously invest in technologies and extensive learning and development tools which provide opportunities to challenge, develop and nurture your career.
QA Chemist employer: Element Solutions Inc
MacDermid Alpha Electronics Solutions is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we provide extensive training and development opportunities, competitive salaries, and a generous benefits package, including a performance-related bonus scheme and a health cash plan. Located in Ashby, our site boasts convenient access to major motorway links and amenities, ensuring a balanced work-life experience while contributing to groundbreaking advancements in the electronics industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land QA Chemist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their products and values, especially the 5C’s they embody. This will help you tailor your responses and show you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions and answers with a friend or in front of a mirror. The more comfortable you are speaking about your experience and skills, the more confident you'll feel during the actual interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at MacDermid Alpha Electronics Solutions.
We think you need these skills to ace QA Chemist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the QA Chemist role. Highlight any lab experience, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills that align with what we're looking for.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're passionate about quality assurance and how you can contribute to our team. Share specific examples of your past work that demonstrate your commitment to quality and collaboration.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:Since this role involves data analysis and root cause investigations, be sure to mention any relevant experience you have in these areas. We love candidates who can think critically and approach problems methodically!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Element Solutions Inc
✨Know Your Chemistry
Brush up on your chemistry knowledge, especially related to QA processes and laboratory practices. Be prepared to discuss specific techniques you've used in previous roles, such as Measurement System Analysis or root cause analysis methodologies like 5 Whys.
✨Showcase Your Attention to Detail
As a QA Chemist, attention to detail is crucial. During the interview, highlight examples where your meticulous nature led to improved product quality or efficiency. Use specific metrics or outcomes to demonstrate your impact.
✨Emphasise Collaboration Skills
This role requires working closely with production and technical teams. Share experiences where you successfully collaborated on projects or resolved issues. Highlight your communication skills and how they helped foster teamwork.
✨Prepare for Problem-Solving Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities. Think of scenarios where you identified trends in QA data or led investigations into non-conforming results. Be ready to explain your thought process and the steps you took to resolve the issues.