Laboratory Team Leader

UBT; England; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A family-run innovative chemical company in Northwich seeks a Technical Team Leader / Senior Chemist to lead a lab team in developing formulations like inks and polymers. The ideal candidate will have a strong science background, proven leadership skills, and hands-on formulation experience. This role offers a salary of £35,000 to £45,000 negotiable and opportunities for career progression within a supportive environment.

Benefits

Negotiable salary

Career progression opportunities

Participation in innovation projects

Qualifications

• Degree in a science discipline essential.
• 5+ years of experience managing a lab team preferred.
• Proficient in formulation development for inks, polymers, or adhesives.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage lab team of technicians and scientists.
• Oversee formulation development and ensure smooth lab operations.
• Drive R&D projects and contribute actively to lab work.

Skills

Leadership

Formulation experience

Mentoring

Collaboration

Education

Degree in a science discipline (Chemistry, Materials Science)

Job description

Overview

Location: Northwich

Salary: 35-45k (negotiable)

Type: Full-time | Permanent

Are you a hands-on leader with a strong science background and a passion for formulation? A rapidly growing but established family run business are looking for a Technical Team Leader / Senior Chemist to lead a dynamic laboratory team and drive innovation in formulations such as inks, polymers, adhesives, or similar materials. This is a great opportunity to lead impactful projects and shape the future of our formulations and work in a collaborative and supportive environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of lab technicians and scientists
• Drive R&D projects while actively contributing to lab work
• Mentor apprentices and new starters, fostering a culture of learning
• Oversee formulation development and testing
• Ensure lab operations run smoothly and safely
• Collaborate cross-functionally to support product innovation

Requirements

• Degree in a science discipline (Chemistry, Materials Science)
• Proven experience managing a lab team (ideally 5+ direct reports)
• Strong leadership presence — leads from the front and sets high standards
• Hands-on formulation experience in inks, polymers, adhesives, or similar
• Passion for training and developing junior staff
• Ability to balance leadership with technical contribution

Benefits

Salary £35,000 to £45,000 Negotiable, DOE

The opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking company with a strong innovation pipeline

Lots of career progression opportunities.