Polymer Chemist

Polymer Chemist - Chemicals sector - West Bromwich

Our client is looking for a Polymer Chemist for their Polymer Additives Laboratory at their site in West Bromwich.

Are you ready for a challenge and think this description matches your skills?

They require a hands-on and technically sound Chemist with the view to developing into an enthusiastic and passionate Polymer Chemist/Rubber Technologist.

Minimum Requirements:

1. Minimum of degree level (or Equivalent) in Applied Chemistry or Elastomer technology.
2. Rubber experience not essential as training will be given, including completion of a Diploma in Rubber Technology and Science.
3. Responsible for synthesis of novel rubber accelerators, development of accelerator systems and polymer compounds for a variety of markets and applications.
4. Conducts research, analysis, synthesis, and experimentation on new and existing materials/substances for product and process development and application.
5. Ability to provide Production and Quality Control Support on a range of their products.
6. Perform analytical and physical testing of rubber products.
7. Performs physical testing to define material/product properties.
8. Analyse and interpret test data, prepare technical reports for use by sales and management personnel.
9. Comply with workplace safety standards.
10. Independently perform lab work and evaluation, initially under supervision.
11. Investigates and evaluates new raw materials for use in new or existing products.
12. Execute designed experiments to validate hypotheses as they relate to elastomeric-based materials, specifically in the areas of vulcanization and physical properties.
13. Apply knowledge of factors influencing processing of elastomeric-based materials, materials chemistry, synthesis, and characterization techniques.
14. Relate material properties to real-world product performance.
15. Excellent written and verbal reporting skills.

With experience, guidance, and training from the team, the successful candidate will develop to a Senior Polymer Chemist position and would be expected in time:

1. To have an excellent knowledge of regulation and standards that dictate the rubber industry.
2. To be familiar with compounding requirements for all polymer families including lattices for medical, consumer, and engineering applications.
3. Have a fundamental understanding of elastomer vulcanization, elastomer-filler interactions, and physical properties.
4. Communicate and potentially travel to global customers to provide technical support.
5. Understand competitive materials and defend the client brand and its products and services.
6. Write technical papers for publication and present at international conferences.

We offer an initial salary in the range of £25k, a 36.25 hour week, 25 days holiday (plus all UK bank holidays), free life assurance cover, and a generous paid sick scheme (both after a qualifying period). We also provide access to a stakeholder pension scheme, a voluntary employee benefits scheme, and a voluntary medical cash benefit plan.