Job Description
We’re looking for an R&D Chemist to join our Research & Development Team
Location will be site based in Preston
About R&D
The core responsibility of the Preston R&D team is to develop polymeric intermediates that enhance Sika’s product portfolio across the UK within sealants, adhesives, and coatings. The team works closely with other Sika R&D teams based around the UK to deliver improved product performance as well as sustainability initiatives. R&D is a key component in Sika’s aim to be a driver of the transformation of the construction and manufacturing industry towards net zero.
Alongside product development, the R&D team play a key role in process optimization and operational support to ensure Sika is an efficient and sustainable manufacturer of high-performance products.
What’s In it for You?
The Opportunity:
* Develop polymers and small molecules for use in sealants, adhesives, and coatings.
* Work cross-functionally to ensure safe and efficient manufacture.
* Lead short-/medium-/ and long-term projects from the laboratory through to production.
* Collaborate with peers and colleagues working across Sika UK as well as the global business.
The Rewards:
You will be rewarded with a competitive salary, and a sweep of great benefits. We pride ourselves on our total reward package:
* Holiday 25 days rising to 28 days with service, plus bank holidays
* 37.5 hours a week with the flexibility of core working hours
* Core Hours are 10 till 12pm and 2pm to 4pm
* A company pension contribution of up to 10%
* Private healthcare for you, with option to add family
* Group life cover at 6x your annual salary
* Global Income Protection (PHI)
* Enhanced maternity and paternity pay
The Support:
You will receive one to one training initially from colleagues but the whole team are always happy to help. There are eight people working in the lab and the team prides itself on a strong basis of openness and support where successes and mistakes are freely exchanged.
There is a significant commitment to professional and personal development from day one, through internal training and skills development.
The Skills:
We are keen to speak to individuals with the ability to effect change and lead projects within R&D. We want someone who has a strong self-drive towards product development and maintenance.
Good project management and organisational skills are required to maintain progress over multiple projects running in tandem.
The Future:
Potential Career Routes: Team Leader, Project Leader, R&D Manager. Many individuals with R&D knowledge are highly desirable in other parts of the business including Product Management roles, Quality Management, and other technical-related areas.
Our links to the corporate business also mean opportunities to live and work abroad are possible in the future.
Qualifications
* We are looking for someone who has the enthusiasm to work with others and drive projects to achieving the best results possible.
* Degree educated in Chemistry, Materials Science, Polymer Science, or related subjects.
* An ideal candidate for this position would have previous experience working in the development of sealants, adhesives, and coatings.
* Previous industrial experience required (at least 2+ years, ideally 5+).
Additional Information
Apply Today and Shape the Future with Sika!
Join us in driving innovation and success in the concrete and waterproofing industry. Be part of a company where your contributions are valued, and your career can thrive.