Technical Lab Chemist

Job Purpose

The Technical Lab Chemist will be responsible for conducting laboratory application testing and evaluation of pigments across Paints, Inks and Plastics applications. The role will support technical trials, customer requirements, product evaluation, complaint resolution, product development and improvement activities while ensuring accurate testing, documentation and adherence to laboratory safety procedures.

Key Responsibilities :

A. Application Testing & Laboratory Evaluation

• Conduct application testing of pigments for Paints, Inks and Plastics applications as per defined testing methods and customer requirements.

• Prepare laboratory samples, drawdowns, test panels and application formulations as per standard procedures.

• Evaluate pigment performance and application properties including:

• Shade

• Tinting strength

• Opacity

• Gloss

• Viscosity

• Dispersion

• Colour development

• Other relevant application characteristics

• Conduct comparative evaluation of products against customer standards, approved references, market samples and competitor products.

• Record observations and test results accurately and prepare technical reports.

B. Customer & Technical Support

• Support Technical Services in conducting customer trials, technical evaluations and application testing.
• Assist in investigation of customer complaints through laboratory testing and comparative analysis.
• Provide technical inputs for identifying possible causes of application-related issues and support corrective actions.
• Coordinate with internal teams to ensure timely closure of technical requirements and customer-related issues.

C. Product Development & Improvement

• Support new product development, product benchmarking and product improvement for different applications.
• Conduct laboratory trials to evaluate new raw materials, formulations and pigment grades.
• Generate comparative data and technical findings to support product development decisions.
• Maintain proper records of trials, formulations, test results and development activities.

D. Cross-Functional Coordination

• Coordinate with Technical Services, R&D, Quality Control, Production and Marketing/Sales for technical requirements and product-related issues.
• Provide laboratory support for production-related investigations, product evaluation and process improvement wherever required.
• Communicate test observations and technical findings clearly to relevant stakeholders.

E. Laboratory Management & Compliance

• Maintain laboratory equipment, instruments, samples and testing areas in proper working condition.
• Ensure laboratory housekeeping, sample identification, storage and record maintenance.
• Follow prescribed laboratory testing methods, SOPs, safety procedures and company policies.
• Ensure proper handling, storage and disposal of chemicals and laboratory materials.
• Maintain confidentiality of formulations, technical data, customer specifications and other proprietary information.

Key Deliverables

• Timely completion of application testing and laboratory trials.
• Accurate and reliable test results and technical reports.
• Effective support for customer trials and complaint investigations.
• Timely completion of product benchmarking and development trials.
• Proper maintenance of laboratory records, samples and equipment.
• Adherence to laboratory safety, quality and testing procedures.
• Effective coordination with Technical, R&D, QC, Production and Sales/Marketing teams.

Education:

• B.Sc. / M.Sc. in Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, Applied Chemistry or a relevant discipline.

Experience:

• 1 to 5 years of relevant experience in a pigment, dyes, paints, inks, plastics, specialty chemicals or related industry.
• Candidates with hands-on experience in pigment application testing and laboratory evaluation will be preferred.

Technical Skills

• Good understanding of pigment application and performance evaluation.
• Practical experience in laboratory testing and sample preparation.
• Knowledge of Paints, Inks and/or Plastics applications.
• Ability to conduct drawdowns, shade comparison and application trials.
• Good analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to prepare technical reports and maintain laboratory documentation.
• Basic understanding of laboratory safety and chemical handling procedures.

Behavioural Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Analytical and methodical approach to testing.
• Good communication and coordination skills.
• Ability to work independently as well as with cross-functional teams.
• Willingness to conduct hands-on laboratory work.
• Positive attitude towards learning and experimentation.
• Ability to work under timelines and handle multiple technical requirements.

Preferred Candidate Profile

Candidates currently working with pigment manufacturers, colourants, dyes, paints, printing inks, plastics, masterbatch or specialty chemical companies with hands-on experience in application testing and technical laboratory work would be preferred.