Quality Technical Specialist Permanent Manchester Salary up to £45,000 (depending on skills and experience) We are working with a chemical manufacturer who are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Technical Quality Specialist to oversee and enhance their manufacturing quality management system. This role will help lead a team of established professionals, implement and maintain quality control procedures, and drive continuous improvement initiatives to optimise product quality and operational efficiency. Additionally, the successful candidate will conduct quality investigations, address customer complaints, identify opportunities for continuous improvement related to product and process failures, and implement strategies to reduce wastage. The role also involves supporting material testing, new product development, and providing technical support for the existing polymeric product portfolio. This position is vital in maintaining the highest standards of product quality and ensuring customer satisfaction. Key areas of accountability: Technical Support: Provide expert technical support for existing polymer products and processes, addressing any quality-related issues promptly and effectively. Quality Management: Implement and maintain quality management systems, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements. Hands-On Approach: Engage directly with production teams, conducting hands-on quality inspections, tests, and troubleshooting to resolve issues. Continuous Improvement: Identify opportunities for process improvements and implement strategies to enhance product quality, reduce defects, and increase efficiency. Customer Complaints: Investigate and address customer complaints, performing root cause analysis and implementing corrective actions to prevent recurrence. Documentation: Maintain accurate and detailed quality documentation, including investigation reports, quality manual, and audit records. Training and Development: Provide training and guidance to production staff on quality standards and best practices. Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including production, engineering, and R&D, to support new product development and process improvements. Your background: We are seeking someone with the majority of skills as below: Proven experience in a technical quality role within a manufacturing environment, ideally related to polymers, coatings, or other chemical fields. Strong knowledge of quality management systems and methodologies (i.e. ISO 9001). Experience with quality inspections, testing, and troubleshooting. Problem-solving and analytical skills. Effective communication and interpersonal skills. Proficiency in Quality Investigation Tools - 5 why/ Fishbone/ 8D/ Pareto Charts Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing certification. Familiarity with industry-specific quality standards and regulations. Audit knowledge internal and external. Qualification in Chemistry to degree level or equivalent We are seeking someone who is self driven and proactive, with a good sense of accountability and a creative mindset to develop innovative solutions. You will have a strong level of attention to detail and quality commitment. The role will mean working occasionally to deadlines and we are seeking someone also keen to progress who is after professional growth. The role is hands-on and you must be able to engage directly with colleagues in a close knit team. On this occasion, LiCa Scientific is acting as an employment agency.