Job Description

We are looking for a
RESEARCH ENGINEER CHEMIST (M/F)

Head of the Analytical Chemistry Laboratory & Quality Management System

Context

The Isbergues Research Centre is the primary laboratory dedicated to the study of stainless steels for the European manufacturing plants of the APERAM Group. With a team of approximately 70 people, the centre focuses on defining, industrializing, and supporting the commercial development of new stainless steels. It serves as APERAM’s flagship Research Centre for stainless steel metallurgy, usage properties, and flat product manufacturing processes.

In the context of a replacement, we are seeking a profile capable of driving the operational leadership for the Analytical Chemical Laboratory while providing the Quality performance (Quality Management System) of the Research Center.

Missions

Reporting to the Centre’s Management, you will hold a strategic role focused on two major pillars:

1. Management of the Integrated Quality Management System:

• Systems and Standards: Design, implement, and maintain QMS management systems in compliance with ISO 9001, 14001, and 45001 standards.
  The systems include, in particular, metrological monitoring of our equipment, LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) management, …
• Audit and Continuous Improvement: Conduct internal audits, monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), and implement corrective/preventive actions following incidents or near-misses.

2. Head of the Chemical Laboratory:

• Team Management: Supervise and develop a team of 5 Research Technicians and 2 apprentices. Coordinate activities to meet the needs of R&D projects, of the different R&D Departments, and the group’s production plants.
• Analytical Expertise: Guarantee the accuracy and reliability of analytical data (chromatography, spectrometry, …) and optimize experimental protocols.
• Technical Referent: Establish the lab as the reference centre supporting other group laboratories (Recyco, meltshops, LC2I) and manage benchmarking campaigns against competitors.
• Operational Management: Oversee the maintenance of analytical instruments, manage budgets, and develop outsourcing solutions to handle peak workloads or specific technical requirements.

You are a great match for this position if…

Education and Technical Competencies:

• Master’s Degree or Engineering degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, ideally with training in Quality Management.
• Proven expertise in analytical chemistry and deep knowledge of laboratory techniques.
• In-depth understanding of ISO standards (9001, 14001, 45001) and QMS tools & system.
• Strong experience in project management and technical team leadership.

Skills:

• Leadership & Influence: Ability to drive change and promote a QMS culture across various departments.
• Scientific Rigor: Excellent capacity for data analysis and the interpretation of complex experimental results.
• Communication: Strong written and oral communication skills for reporting and employee awareness training.
• Languages: Proficiency in both French and technical English is mandatory.