Research and Development Technologist

Job description

R&D Technologist I Permanent I On-Site I £Competitive I Derbyshire

Are you looking to develop your career in research and development within an innovative manufacturing environment? We're recruiting for an R&D Technologist to join a growing technical team, where you'll play a key role in developing new polymer compounds, improving existing formulations, and supporting products from concept through to commercialisation. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with existing commercial/industrial lab experience to apply to a new environment and business.

The Role

As an R&D Technologist, you'll work closely with production, quality, commercial teams and customers to develop high-quality, commercially viable polymer compounds. You'll be involved in formulation development, product testing, technical problem-solving, and continuous improvement projects while supporting new product introductions and customer applications.

Key Responsibilities

• Support compound development projects from concept through to commercialisation.
• Develop, test and optimise polymer formulations.
• Provide technical support during product scale-up and new product introductions.
• Investigate and resolve technical and customer-related challenges.
• Maintain accurate formulation data within SAP.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives, including raw material optimisation and cost reduction.
• Assist with laboratory operations and technical documentation.
• Explore the use of digital and AI tools to support innovation, product development and data analysis.
• Visit customers to understand requirements, support product trials and build strong working relationships.
• Ensure compliance with Health & Safety and relevant regulatory requirements.

About You

To be successful in this role, you'll have:

• A degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Engineering or a related scientific discipline.
• Experience in a manufacturing or laboratory-based environment.
• Experience formulating polymeric/plastic materials.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to manage projects from concept through to completion.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to explain technical information clearly.
• A proactive approach with a passion for continuous improvement and innovation.
• An understanding of AI and digital tools and how they can support product development and data analysis.
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office 365; SAP experience would be advantageous.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• The ability to build effective working relationships across teams and with customers.

Working HoursMonday - Thursday: 8:30am - 4:30pm Friday: 8:30am - 1:30pm

Apply

If you're passionate about research and development, enjoy solving technical challenges, and are looking to join a forward-thinking manufacturing business, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today with your CV to be considered for this exciting opportunity.

Extra information

Status

Open

Education Level

Secondary School

Location

High Peak

Type of Contract

Full-time jobs

Published at

12-08-2026

Profession type

Scientific Services

Full UK/EU driving license preferred

No

Car Preferred

No

Must be eligible to work in the EU

No

Cover Letter Required

No

Languages

English