Thin Films Lab Technician

Smart4Chemicals; Lancashire; On-site; GBP 27,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

A global leader in advanced materials technologies is seeking an R&D Laboratory Technician to support the development of new coated products. The role involves operating laboratory equipment and conducting tests in a dynamic environment. Ideal candidates should have GCSE/A-Level qualifications in Maths and Science, be confident in laboratory processes, and possess strong organisational skills. This position offers competitive benefits and a commitment to professional development.

Benefits

25 days annual leave plus public holidays

Staff bonus scheme

Defined contribution pension

Cycle to Work scheme

Ongoing professional development

On-site parking and EV charging points

On-site fitness activities

Qualifications

• An enthusiastic, self-motivated team player with genuine interest in science or engineering.
• Confident working with chemicals and hands-on laboratory processes.
• Experience in operating and maintaining technical equipment preferred.

Responsibilities

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

Skills

Attention to detail

Team player

Organisational skills

Interest in science

Education

GCSE/A-Level in Maths and Science

BTEC, HNC, or similar in science/engineering

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.

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.

The Role:

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