Development Chemist
Date: 10 Feb 2026
Location: Irlam, GB, M44 5BL
Company: Flintgroup
Job Title
Development Chemist
Division
Packaging Solutions
Segment
Chemicals
Reporting Line
- direct -
Global Technology Director, Chemicals
Reporting Line
- indirect -
Location
Irlam
Travel Required
Occasional travel may be required
Job Purpose
Working safely to implement the new product development, scale up, commercialisation and optimisation of our portfolio of speciality chemicals for the printing industry.
Key Responsibilities
* Carry out detailed laboratory design, testing and analysis of robust, new and amended product formulations to agreed timelines, for our diverse range of press room chemicals including washes & cleaners, spray powders, silicone emulsions and aqueous fountain solutions.
* Oversee stability testing, product specifications and product launch readiness and provide technical support during production trials of new and amended products.
* Undertake raw material evaluation and introduction of new chemistries and alternative suppliers with an awareness of regulatory compliance.
* Test, implement and maintain our external product certifications for printing press manufacturer compatibility (Fogra), suitability for food packaging applications (Isega) and low dust powders (BG Etem).
* Collaborate with technology colleagues and within cross-functional teams, research industry initiatives and new technologies and materials to foster innovation and drive best in class product performance at the lowest cost.
* Maintain and enhance our ISO9001 protocols for research and development and service.
* Support site and departmental Health and safety initiatives.
Essential Criteria
* Experience of formulation development in a chemical industrial environment, preferably in inks, paints or coatings.
* Good communication skills including written, verbal, and delivery of technical presentations.
* Must be proficient with Microsoft Office (Excel, word, power point).
* Strong project management skills and commercial awareness.
Desirable Criteria
* Degree in Chemistry or related discipline required, with a working knowledge of basic chemistry principles.
* Experience with SAP.
* Knowledge of environmental certification (Ecolabels) processes.
* Experience with emulsion, surfactant and corrosion inhibitor chemistries.
* Familiarity with analytical methods including GCMS, HPLC and IC.