Job Summary
The QC & Product Development Technologist will support the quality control, formulation, and development of polyurethane prepolymers and multi-component systems used across a range of industrial applications. This role combines laboratory testing, formulation support, and technical problem-solving within a manufacturing and development environment.
This position is ideally suited to a recent graduate or someone in the early stages of their technical career who is looking to develop hands-on experience in polyurethane chemistry, polymer formulation, quality systems, and industrial manufacturing processes. The role offers significant opportunity for long-term development and progression within the technical team.
The successful candidate will work closely with experienced chemists and production personnel to gain practical knowledge of polyurethane systems including prepolymers, curing agents, catalysts, additives, and finished formulations.
Key Responsibilities
Quality Control
- Carry out routine QC testing of raw materials, intermediate products, and finished polyurethane systems.
- Perform analytical and physical testing including:
- Viscosity
- NCO content
- Specific gravity / density
- Gel time
- Cure profile
- Hardness testing
- Karl Fischer moisture determination
- Record, analyse, and report laboratory results accurately.
- Assist in investigating product non-conformances and quality issues.
- Support calibration and maintenance of laboratory equipment.
- Monitor and maintain stocks of laboratory consumables and testing materials.
- Ensure laboratory activities comply with quality and safety procedures.
Product Development
- Support formulation and development of polyurethane prepolymers and multi-component systems.
- Assist with laboratory-scale blending, mixing, and product trials.
- Prepare and evaluate development samples for internal testing and customer assessment.
- Assist in the design, evaluation, and optimisation of polyurethane formulations for customer and manufacturing requirements.
- Support optimisation of formulations for processing, cure performance, and end-use properties.
- Assist in evaluating new raw materials including polyols, isocyanates, catalysts, fillers, pigments, and additives.
- Analyse test data and provide recommendations to support product development activities.
- Participate in scale-up and manufacturing trials.
- Prepare technical reports and maintain accurate development records.
Technical & Manufacturing Support
- Work closely with production teams to support manufacturing consistency and troubleshooting.
- Assist with root cause investigations relating to processing or product performance issues.
- Support continuous improvement projects focused on quality, efficiency, and cost reduction.
- Contribute to technical documentation including specifications, batch records, and test procedures.
- Maintain good laboratory housekeeping and safe handling practices for chemicals and reactive materials.
Qualifications & Experience
Essential
- Degree, HNC/HND, or equivalent qualification in:
- Chemistry
- Polymer Science
- Materials Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Applied Chemistry
- Basic IT skills including Microsoft Excel and Word.
- Willingness to learn laboratory and manufacturing processes.
Desirable
- Placement year, internship, or laboratory experience within chemicals, coatings, adhesives, elastomers, or polyurethane manufacturing.
- Basic understanding of polyurethane chemistry and reactive systems.
- Familiarity with laboratory testing equipment and QC procedures.
- Knowledge of ISO 9001 quality systems.
Skills & Competencies
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to follow technical procedures accurately.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
- Practical hands-on laboratory approach.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities.
- Proactive attitude and willingness to learn.
Pay: £28,420.00-£30,000.01 per year
Benefits:
Education:
Work Location: In person
