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Senior Chemist - Release Agents & Specialist Lubricants
(phone number removed) + Benefits
Location: Lancashire (office-based with ad hoc flexibility)
Are you a Chemist ready to play a pivotal role in improving and developing specialist lubricants and release agents? This is an exciting opportunity to take ownership of R&D projects at a growing international manufacturer whose products are used worldwide in automotive, food, and industrial sectors.
The Opportunity
As Senior Chemist, you will be the lead technical specialist, responsible for:
- Improving existing formulations (c.75%) to meet evolving customer and manufacturing needs.
- Driving new product innovation (c.25%), identifying opportunities for growth and differentiation.
- Taking ownership of release agents and specialist lubricants, a key area of focus for the business.
- Leading current R&D projects in collaboration with Sales, Manufacturing, Purchasing, and Directors.
- Supporting product trials and occasionally accompanying sales colleagues on UK customer visits.
- Over time, developing greater involvement in manufacturing SOPs, licensee support, and cost optimisation.
This is a role for a Chemist who enjoys technical variety, working independently, and seeing tangible results from their work in the market.
About You
- Degree-qualified in Chemistry (PhD or MSc preferred, though strong BSc with significant industrial experience will be considered).
- Hands-on experience in formulation and product improvement, ideally within release agents, lubricants, or adjacent specialities.
- Knowledge of regulatory frameworks such as REACH, NSF, ISO, Halal, Kosher (support provided in-house).
- Comfortable working independently as the lead chemist, with the potential to grow a team in future.
- Proactive, resilient, and able to manage shifting priorities across multiple live projects.
- Based within commuting distance of Nelson, Lancashire (or willing to relocate).
What's on Offer
- A high-visibility role in a specialist international SME, reporting directly to Directors.
- The chance to own priority projects and make an immediate technical impact.
- Occasional international travel (minimal - c.2 days per year in Europe, very occasional global trips).
- Competitive salary and benefits, with potential relocation support.
If you're passionate about chemistry, product improvement, and leading technical projects in a growing business, we'd love to hear from you.
