Polymer Chemist

NES Fircroft is collaborating with an independent, family-owned company based in West Bromwich, West Midlands, that manufactures organic chemicals for various industries, including Pharmaceutical, Agrochemical, Rubber, Polymer, Food & Beverage, and allied sectors. We are seeking a Polymer Chemist to join an existing team to work on a lower tier COMAH facility.

Our client requires a hands-on and technically sound Chemist with the view to developing into an enthusiastic and passionate Polymer Chemist/Rubber Technologist.

Responsibilities:

• Responsible for synthesis of novel rubber accelerators, development of accelerator systems and polymer compounds for a variety of markets and applications.
• Conduct research, analysis, synthesis, and experimentation on new and existing materials/substances for product and process development and application.
• Provide Production and Quality Control Support on a range of products.
• Perform analytical and physical testing of rubber products.
• Perform physical testing to define material/product properties.
• Analyse and interpret test data; prepare technical reports for use by sales and management personnel.
• Comply with workplace safety standards.
• Independently perform lab work and evaluation, initially under supervision.
• Investigate and evaluate new raw materials for use in new or existing products.
• Execute designed experiments to validate hypotheses as they relate to elastomeric based materials, specifically in the areas of vulcanization and physical properties.
• Apply knowledge of factors influencing processing of elastomeric based materials, materials chemistry, synthesis, and characterization techniques.
• Relate material properties to real-world product performance.
• Excellent written and verbal reporting skills.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Minimum of degree level (or Equivalent) in Applied Chemistry or Elastomer technology.
• Rubber experience not essential as training will be given, including completion of a Diploma in Rubber Technology and Science.

Career Development:

With experience, guidance, and training from the team, the successful candidate will develop to a Senior Polymer Chemist position and would be expected in time:

• To have an excellent knowledge of regulations and standards that dictate the rubber industry.
• To be familiar with compounding requirements for all polymer families including lattices for medical, consumer, and engineering applications.
• Have a fundamental understanding of elastomer vulcanization, elastomer-filler interactions, and physical properties.
• Communicate and potentially travel to global customers to provide technical support.
• Evaluate the changing face of the Rubber Industry and the effect on their range of chemicals.
• Understand competitive materials and defend the brand and its products and services.
• Write technical papers for publication and present at international conferences.

If you are interested in this position, please forward your updated CV.