Process Chemist
- Cambridgeshire
- Permanent
- Full-time
Location: Newmarket
Industry: Chemicals / Polymers
Type: Full-time | On-siteAbout 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.
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:
- Free radical polymerisation (solution and/or emulsion)
- Polyurethane chemistry
- Semi-batch processes
- Scale-up of exothermic reactions
- 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.
- 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