Analytical Chemist II

Sun Chemical; Rochdale; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global chemical manufacturer in Rochdale is seeking an Analytical Chemist II to support their trace analysis team. This role emphasizes expertise in mass spectrometry and organic chemistry to ensure compliance, innovation, and safety in products. The ideal candidate will have a strong background, preferably with over 5 years of hands-on experience, and will contribute to developing analytical methods while mentoring junior staff. Join a forward-looking team dedicated to sustainability and excellence.

Benefits

Competitive benefits

Professional development opportunities

Flexible working schedule

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years’ relevant experience in analytical chemistry.
• Hands-on expertise in mass spectrometry and chromatographic techniques.
• Experience in ISO 17025 environments.

Responsibilities

• Operate and troubleshoot advanced mass spectrometry instruments.
• Perform detailed mass spectrometric analyses.
• Train and mentor laboratory staff.

Skills

Mass spectrometry expertise

Organic chemistry background

Chromatographic techniques

Problem-solving skills

Team player

Education

Degree in Chemistry or related field

Tools

LC-MS

GC-MS

Job description

ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION

Sun Chemical, a member of the DIC Group, is a leading producer of packaging and graphic solutions, color and display technologies, functional products, electronic materials, and products for the automotive and healthcare industries. Together with DIC, Sun Chemical is continuously working to promote and develop sustainable solutions to exceed customer expectations and better the world around us. With combined annual sales of more than $8.5 billion and 22,000+ employees worldwide, the DIC Group companies support a diverse collection of global customers.

Sun Chemical, a global leader in printing inks, coatings, and advanced materials, is seeking a highly skilled Analytical Chemist II to join our expanding trace analysis team in Rochdale. This is a pivotal role supporting our Ink and coating divisions, focusing on advanced analytical testing of printed materials, inks, coatings, adhesives, and raw materials. You will play a key part in ensuring regulatory compliance, driving innovation, and solving complex technical challenges for our global customers.

Purpose of the Role

As Analytical Chemist II, you will be at the forefront of analytical science, delivering advanced expertise in mass spectrometry and organic chemistry to solve complex challenges in printed materials and packaging. Your work will drive innovation, support regulatory compliance, and help ensure the safety of products used by millions worldwide. By developing new methods and championing emerging technologies, you’ll play a key role in shaping the future of Sun Chemical’s analytical capabilities and supporting our commitment to excellence and sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot advanced mass spectrometry instrumentation, with a focus on LC / QQQ (triple quadrupole). Experience with alternative mass spectrometry equipment including HR-LC / MS , GC / MS, or GC / QQQ is also valued.
• Perform detailed mass spectrometric analyses of raw materials, formulated products, and printed substrates.
• Interpret complex mass spectral data, including tentative structural elucidation of unknowns in ink and coating materials.
• Develop and validate new instrumental methods to support R&D and regulatory compliance.
• Maintain and expand analytical databases and resources.
• Train and mentor laboratory staff in analytical techniques and ISO17025-compliant practices.
• Champion new analytical technologies and methodologies to enhance laboratory capabilities.
• Prioritize and schedule work to meet departmental and customer needs in a fast‑paced environment.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong background in organic chemistry, with demonstrable expertise in mass spectrometry (preferably LC / QQQ but other techniques would also be considered).
• Proven ability to interpret and elucidate complex mass spectral data.
• Experience with chromatographic techniques (LC‑MS, GC‑MS) and associated sample preparation.
• Excellent problem‑solving, planning, and organizational skills.
• Knowledge of ink chemistry, printing processes, and matrix effects (advantageous).
• Familiarity with ISO17025 procedures and equipment maintenance.
• Effective communicator and team player, able to train and mentor other more junior staff.

Qualifications & Experience

• Degree in Chemistry or related field (MSc / MChem advantageous)
• Minimum 5 years’ relevant experience in analytical chemistry, with hands‑on expertise in mass spectrometry and chromatographic techniques.
• Must have substantial experience working within laboratory environments operating under strict quality management systems, such as ISO 17025. This includes hands‑on involvement in the development and validation of new analytical methods to support regulatory compliance, product development, and problem‑solving activities.

Other desirable skills and experience include

• Understanding of Food Contact Material regulation such as EU 10 / 2011, Swiss Ordinance, German Ink Ordinance and demonstrate an ethical awareness of how such work ensures the safety and health of consumers.
• Basic knowledge of print processes and their applications.

Why Join Us?

At Sun Chemical, you’ll join a global leader with over 200 years of expertise in printing inks, coatings, and advanced materials. We’re not just shaping the future of the industry - we’re committed to making a positive impact on the world around us. Our culture is built on innovation, diversity, and collaboration, where every team member’s ideas and achievements are valued.

• Impact : Your work will help ensure the safety and compliance of products used by millions, supporting sustainability and regulatory excellence in packaging and printed materials.
• Innovation : Be part of a team that pioneers new analytical methods and technologies, driving industry standards and sustainable solutions.
• Growth : We invest in your professional development with tailored training, mentorship, and clear career pathways - empowering you to shape your own journey.
• Collaboration : Experience a supportive, inclusive environment that celebrates diversity and fosters creative problem‑solving.
• Sustainability : Join a company recognized for its commitment to environmental responsibility, with ambitious goals to reduce carbon emissions and promote circular economy practices.

We offer competitive benefits, including professional development opportunities and a flexible working schedule, so you can thrive both professionally and personally.

If you’re looking for a role where your expertise, curiosity, and drive for excellence will be truly appreciated - and where you’ll make a tangible difference - Sun Chemical is the place for you.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

It is Sun’s policy that applicants for employment are recruited, selected, and hired on the basis of individual merit and ability with respect to the position being filled. Sun prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identify, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other status protected by applicable law.

Employment agencies are an important component of our talent acquisition strategy, and we value the partnerships we have built with our preferred vendors. We will not accept unsolicited resumes from employment agencies for any employment opportunity. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at Sun Chemical or directly to hiring managers in any form without a signed contract on file, and search engagement for that position, will be deemed unsolicited in nature, and no fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired as a result of the referral or through other means. Additionally, any resume submitted without a contract in place will be considered property of Sun Chemical and no fees will be paid to the agency if the candidate is hired.