Chemical Process Engineer - Manufacturing

ATTB - The Big Jobsite; Hemel Hempstead; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading company in chemical detection technology as a Chemistry Specialist Manufacturing Engineer. This role combines experimental science with engineering to enhance detection products, contributing to safety and security. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in chemistry and data analysis, and enjoy practical lab work alongside production insights.

Benefits

Work on life-saving technologies

Collaborate with world-class engineers and scientists

Participate in full product lifecycle

Dynamic, supportive environment

Qualifications

• Degree in a scientific discipline such as Chemistry or Analytical Science.
• Strong experimental and data analysis skills.
• Knowledge of Ion Mobility Spectrometry is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and improve detection product performance on the production line.
• Investigate and solve complex product and process issues.
• Support transition of new products from R&D to manufacturing.

Skills

Experimental skills

Data analysis

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

Degree in Chemistry or related fields

PhD in Chemistry

Tools

Ion Mobility Spectrometry

Ion Chemistry

Job description

Are you a Chemist or Scientist looking to apply your expertise in a hands-on, real-world setting? Join us at Smiths Detection and help shape the next generation of chemical, explosives, and narcotics detection products.

Every minute of every day, Smiths Detection’s threat detection and security screening technology helps to protect people and infrastructure, making the world a safer place.

Smiths Detection, part of Smiths Group, is a global leader in the development, manufacture, and management of security and detection solutions designed to make the world a safer place. Our technology provides threat detection and screening solutions for customers in key markets such as aviation, ports and borders, defense, and urban security.

Our expertise spans 21 global offices, seven manufacturing sites, and five R&D centers, with a network of 3,000 dedicated colleagues contributing over 40 years of advances in safety and security.

We’re looking for a Chemistry Specialist Manufacturing Engineer to bring scientific rigor to our manufacturing team in Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire. This role offers a unique opportunity to combine experimental science with engineering to support high-performance detection technologies that safeguard people and critical infrastructure.

Due to the sensitive nature of the work, we can only consider applicants eligible for UK Security Clearance, and we are unable to sponsor visas.

What you’ll be doing:

1. Using your chemistry expertise to monitor and improve the performance of our detection products on the production line.
2. Investigating and solving complex product and process issues through experimental design and data analysis.
3. Supporting the transition of new detection products from R&D into full-scale manufacturing.
4. Planning and conducting experiments, analyzing results, and communicating findings effectively to engineers, scientists, and manufacturing teams.
5. Providing hands-on scientific input to troubleshoot problems, enhance performance, and guide decision-making throughout product lifecycles.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys combining practical lab work with production floor insights and is excited about applying chemistry in a mission-driven engineering environment.

What you’ll bring:

• A degree in a scientific discipline such as Chemistry, Analytical Science, or related fields. A PhD is highly desirable, especially in chemistry.
• Strong experimental and data analysis skills, with the ability to design, conduct, and interpret investigations.
• Knowledge of Ion Mobility Spectrometry and Ion Chemistry is a significant advantage.
• Excellent communication skills, with confidence in presenting to technical and non-technical audiences.
• A curious, self-starting attitude with strong organizational and problem-solving abilities.

What’s in it for you?

• Work on life-saving technologies that detect explosives, narcotics, and harmful chemicals.
• Collaborate with world-class engineers and scientists across disciplines.
• Participate in the full product lifecycle—from lab testing to real-world trials and manufacturing scale-up.
• Enjoy a dynamic, supportive environment where your scientific skills directly impact product quality and safety.

Diversity & Inclusion

We believe diverse perspectives and backgrounds foster innovation. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration, regardless of socioeconomic status, ethnicity, gender, age, disability, or other protected characteristics. We are committed to an inclusive workplace grounded in equality and ethics.

During the hiring process, Smiths Group and our recruitment partners will never request payment. Beware of fraudulent requests—apply directly through our careers website.