Polymer Scientist

Polymer Scientist I Permanent I On-Site I £Competitive I Derbyshire

Are you looking to develop your career in research and development within an innovative manufacturing environment? We're recruiting for an R&D Technologist to join a growing technical team, where you'll play a key role in developing new polymer compounds, improving existing formulations, and supporting products from concept through to commercialisation. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with existing commercial/industrial lab experience to apply to a new environment and business.

The Role

As a Polymer Scientist, you'll work closely with production, quality, commercial teams and customers to develop high-quality, commercially viable polymer compounds. You'll be involved in formulation development, product testing, technical problem-solving, and continuous improvement projects while supporting new product introductions and customer applications.

Key Responsibilities

• Support compound development projects from concept through to commercialisation.
• Develop, test and optimise polymer formulations.
• Provide technical support during product scale-up and new product introductions.
• Investigate and resolve technical and customer-related challenges.
• Maintain accurate formulation data within SAP.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives, including raw material optimisation and cost reduction.
• Assist with laboratory operations and technical documentation.
• Explore the use of digital and AI tools to support innovation, product development and data analysis.
• Visit customers to understand requirements, support product trials and build strong working relationships.
• Ensure compliance with Health & Safety and relevant regulatory requirements.

About You

To be successful in this role, you'll have:

• A degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Engineering or a related scientific discipline.
• Experience in a manufacturing or laboratory-based environment.
• Experience formulating polymeric/plastic materials.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to manage projects from concept through to completion.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to explain technical information clearly.
• A proactive approach with a passion for continuous improvement and innovation.
• An understanding of AI and digital tools and how they can support product development and data analysis.
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office 365; SAP experience would be advantageous.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• The ability to build effective working relationships across teams and with customers.

Working Hours Monday - Thursday: 8:30am - 4:30pm Friday: 8:30am - 1:30pm

Apply

If you're passionate about research and development, enjoy solving technical challenges, and are looking to join a forward-thinking manufacturing business, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today with your CV to be considered for this exciting opportunity.