Polymer Chemist

Talent STEM Ltd; North East; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A forward-thinking manufacturer in North East England seeks a Polymer Chemist to develop and optimise coating formulations and surface technologies. This role offers a chance to shape next generation coatings, providing a competitive remuneration package, career progression, and a collaborative environment focused on innovation and sustainability.

Benefits

Competitive remuneration package

Bonus and pension scheme

Career progression opportunities

Qualifications

• At least 5 years of practical experience in coatings, inks or surface chemistry.
• Strong understanding of coating and surface technologies.
• Background in product development or process optimisation.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimise coating formulations and techniques.
• Lead innovation in embossing techniques for PVC films.
• Conduct laboratory experiments and present results.

Skills

Coating technologies

Surface chemistry

Problem solving

Communication skills

Data analysis

Education

Degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science or Materials Science

Job description

About the business

We are partnering with a well‑established manufacturer of high‑quality decorative PVC films for exterior and interior applications. The business is recognised for innovation, sustainability, and technical excellence. You will join a collaborative New Product Development team focused on creating next generation surface coating technologies for decorative and functional films.

The role

The Polymer Chemist will play a key role in developing and optimising coating formulations and surface technologies. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to new product development from concept through to production.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and optimise coating formulations and techniques including excimer, UV and 2K lacquers for decorative PVC films
• Design and implement new water‑based inks and primers to improve performance and sustainability
• Lead innovation in embossing techniques, creating new surface textures and finishes
• Introduce new product features aligned with market trends and customer requirements
• Conduct laboratory experiments, analyse data and present results to support development decisions
• Collaborate with production teams to resolve quality or performance issues in new and existing products
• Evaluate new raw materials and suppliers against cost, quality and sustainability criteria
• Provide technical support to internal stakeholders and customers, including troubleshooting and specification guidance
• Travel occasionally to support customer trials, training sessions and technical reviews

Candidate requirements

• Degree (BSc, MSc or PhD) in Chemistry, Polymer Science or Materials Science is essential
• At least 5 years' practical experience in coatings, inks or surface chemistry, ideally in polymers, plastics or films
• Strong understanding of coating and surface technologies including formulation, priming, printing, embossing, resins and polymers
• Background in product development, process optimisation or manufacturing support
• Excellent communication and technical reporting skills
• Ability to design experiments, analyse data and propose improvements
• A self‑motivated, inquisitive and proactive individual who enjoys problem solving and innovation
• Comfortable working independently or as part of a cross‑functional team

What's on offer

• The chance to help shape next generation coatings and surface technologies within a growing and innovative business
• Competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience, including bonus and pension scheme
• A collaborative and supportive environment focused on innovation, sustainability and product excellence
• Career progression opportunities within a technically driven organisation

How to apply

If you are passionate about coatings innovation and want to be part of a forward‑thinking manufacturer, we would love to hear from you.

Applications will be reviewed as they are received, so early applications are encouraged.

You must have the right to work in the UK. The organisation is not able to offer sponsorship at this time.

Talent STEM is acting as an employment agency for this position.