R&D Scientist

Role Overview & Responsibilities

A well-established membrane manufacturing company based in Norfolk is looking for an R&D Scientist to join its technical department.

The company has strongly prioritised New Product Development and a drive towards increasing sustainability for continued business growth so this is an exciting opportunity to be at the forefront of new membrane technology.

The Company:

PIL Membranes design, manufacture and test unique polymer membranes for the clothing, electronic, military and medical markets. They specialise in water vapour transmission products with a range of applications such as: leather effect membranes for children’s school shoes; technical and industrial clothing (including anti-static, viral barrier, fire- and chemical-retardant garments); and sports and leisure footwear and apparel.

The R&D scientist position is a full-time, permanent role encompassing laboratory experimentation, small scale development work, pilot scale polymer synthesis, full-scale manufacturing trials, and product performance testing.

The job holder will report to the R&D Manager and will work closely with staff in other functions, providing technical support to all aspects of the business.

Responsibilities of a successful candidate:

• Develop and test polymer syntheses and formulations from lab scale through to coating line trials and full-scale plant production.
• Directly test material using a range of analytical equipment.
• Record and report results, clearly and concisely.
• Work closely with colleagues from Commercial, Quality and Operations functions as part of a multi-disciplinary team.

Candidate requirements:

• Educated to degree level or equivalent in chemistry, polymer science, material science or other related science discipline.
• Relevant industrial experience would be advantageous but is not a requirement.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional team.
• Self-motivated, inquisitive and pro-active.
• Hands-on approach.
• Concern for safety and attention to detail.
• Logical, methodical approach to problem solving.

Training will be provided to enable work to be carried out safely and to a high standard. Work must be undertaken in accordance with the company’s Environmental, Health and Safety Standards, and in compliance with our ISO9001:2015 quality certification.

Job Type: Permanent

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Life insurance
• On-site parking
• Sick pay
• Wellness programme

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person