Polymer Technologist

RENOLIT; Cramlington; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a skilled Polymer Technologist (Coating Specialist) to join their New Product Development team. This role is pivotal in developing innovative coating formulations and techniques for high-quality PVC films. You will leverage your expertise in polymers and surface design to create novel products that enhance performance and sustainability. With a commitment to excellence, this dynamic company offers a collaborative environment where your contributions will significantly impact the industry. If you are passionate about cutting-edge technologies and enjoy working in a hands-on role, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Benefits

25 days holiday entitlement

Company pension scheme

Free on-site parking

Subsidised canteen

Cycle to work scheme

Employee Assistance Program

Qualifications

• 5+ years of hands-on experience in the coating industry.
• Strong understanding of polymers, resins, and surface coating technologies.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimise coating formulations for PVC furniture films.
• Conduct laboratory experiments to evaluate films and surface coatings.
• Provide technical support to customers regarding product specifications.

Skills

Polymers

Coating Technologies

Surface Design

Communication Skills

Testing and Analysis

Education

Degree in Chemistry

MSc in Polymer Science

PhD in Material Science

Job description

Renolit UK Limited is a leading manufacturer of high-quality exterior PVC window films and interior kitchen films, dedicated to delivering innovative solutions for residential and commercial applications. With a focus on excellence in product quality, performance, and customer satisfaction, we are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Polymer Technologist (Coating Specialist) to join our New Product Development team. If you have a passion for cutting-edge coating technologies, sustainable practices, and creative surface design, we want to hear from you!

As a Polymer Technologist (Coating Specialist), you will play a key role in the research, development, and production of decorative PVC films.

Working within the Development Team, you will contribute to the development of new products, improvement of existing formulations, and optimisation of manufacturing processes. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact in a dynamic and growing industry.

It is desirable for the candidate to understand polymers, resins, and surface coating/decorating technologies (printing, priming, embossing etc.) and to bring new methodologies in these areas.

Your tasks at RENOLIT

1. Develop and optimise coating formulations and techniques, including excimer, UV, and 2K lacquers for PVC furniture films.
2. Design and implement novel water-based inks and primers, enhancing performance and sustainability across products.
3. Serve as a specialist in embossing techniques, creating innovative textures and patterns to enhance surface aesthetics.
4. Introduce new features to surfaces, improving functionality and aligning with market trends.
5. Develop and evaluate new products for new and existing applications, bringing them to market swiftly and effectively.
6. Support product qualification and approval programmes in support of the NPD&I portfolio where appropriate.
7. Conduct laboratory experiments and testing to evaluate the properties and characteristics of films and surface coatings.
8. Work with production personnel and provide technical support and assistance as required to resolve production and quality issues in support of new and existing products.
9. Provide technical support to customers regarding product specifications, application techniques, and troubleshooting assistance.
10. Assist in the evaluation of raw materials, suppliers, and vendors to ensure compliance with quality standards, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability requirements.
11. Willingness and flexibility to travel as required for customer visits, training sessions, and industry events, and work after hours as needed to support trials and customer requirements.

What we expect

1. Degree (BSc, MSc, PhD, etc.) in Chemistry, Polymer Science, or Material Science is essential.
2. Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in the coating industry is essential; experience in plastics or materials industries is desirable.
3. Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to convey technical information clearly and effectively.
4. Knowledge of new product development, process safety, optimisation, and improvements.
5. Ability to plan, organise, carry out testing work, and analyse results.
6. Ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional team.
7. Full, clean driving licence.
8. Self-motivated, inquisitive, and proactive.

What we offer

1. Attractive salary (dependent on experience), commensurate with qualifications and experience.
2. 25 days holiday entitlement including 2 fixed days during the Christmas shutdown (3 in 2025/26) and 8 bank holidays.
3. Company pension scheme.
4. Free on-site parking.
5. Subsidised canteen.
6. Cycle to work scheme.
7. EAP (Employee Assistance Program).