Description
Job Title: Process Chemist
Location: Newmarket
Industry: Chemicals / Polymers
Type: Full-time | On-site
About the Company:
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.
The Role:
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.
About You:
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:
o Free radical polymerisation (solution and/or emulsion)
o Polyurethane chemistry
o Semi-batch processes
o Scale-up of exothermic reactions
o 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.
What’s in it for you?
* 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.
* £55k + benefits