Thin Films Lab Technician

Smart4Chemical; Lancashire; On-site; GBP 27,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

A global leader in advanced materials technologies in the UK is seeking a motivated R&D Laboratory Technician to join their Thin Film Technology team. This hands-on technical role involves operating thin-film deposition equipment, conducting tests, and supporting product development. Ideal candidates will have GCSE/A-Level in Maths and Science and be confident with laboratory processes. Benefits include professional development, a bonus scheme, and generous annual leave.

Benefits

25 days annual leave plus public holidays

Staff bonus scheme

Defined contribution pension

Cycle to Work scheme

On-site fitness activities

Qualifications

• Confident working with hands-on laboratory processes.
• Ability to manage workloads effectively.
• Experience in operating and maintaining technical equipment.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain thin-film deposition and laboratory equipment.
• Conduct durability and performance tests.
• Prepare substrates and apply coatings.

Skills

Enthusiastic team player

Confident with chemicals

Strong organizational skills

Education

GCSE/A-Level qualifications (Maths and Science)

BTEC, HNC, or similar in a science or engineering discipline

Tools

Microsoft applications

Job description

R&D Laboratory Technician – Thin Film Technology

Location: West Lancashire

Salary: Up to £32,000 (DOE)

Employment Type: Permanent, Full-time

About the Company

A global leader in advanced materials technologies is seeking an R&D Laboratory Technician to join its Thin Film Technology team. The company operates across architectural, automotive, and high-tech markets, and is committed to innovation, sustainability, and technical excellence.

The Role

This role sits within a specialist R&D group focused on developing next‑generation coated materials products and processes through cutting‑edge thin‑film deposition technologies.

As an R&D Laboratory Technician, you will support the development of new coated products, working on projects ranging from rapid, incremental improvements to long‑term strategic research.

This is a hands‑on technical role with a strong focus on accuracy, attention to detail, and continuous learning.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain thin-film deposition and laboratory equipment
• Prepare substrates and apply coatings via controlled processes
• Conduct durability and performance tests
• Measure and record key coating properties
• Support problem‑solving activities both in the lab and at production facilities
• Maintain high standards of organisation, safety, and documentation

Candidate Profile

• An enthusiastic, self‑motivated team player with a genuine interest in science, engineering, or materials technology
• Confident working with chemicals and hands‑on laboratory processes
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage workloads effectively
• GCSE/A-Level qualifications (Maths and Science essential)
• Experience using Microsoft applications

Preferred Qualifications & Experience

• BTEC, HNC, or similar in a science or engineering discipline
• Experience in operating and maintaining technical or complex equipment
• Knowledge of vacuum systems and thin‑film processes (training provided)
• Previous lab or R&D experience in a technical environment

Benefits

• 25 days annual leave plus public holidays
• Staff bonus scheme (up to 10% of salary, not guaranteed)
• Defined contribution pension with up to 8% employer contribution
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Ongoing professional development
• On‑site parking, EV charging points, and restaurant
• On‑site fitness activities and wellbeing events