Development Chemist
Salary: £30,000 – £45,000 per year
Location: UK-based (applicants must have the right to work in the UK – sponsorship is not available)
About the Role
We are looking for a skilled and detail-focused Development Chemist to join our client’s innovative and growing team. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who thrives in a laboratory environment and is passionate about contributing to high-quality research, product development, and manufacturing support.
The successful candidate will be key to ensuring the quality, safety, and performance of products, as well as bridging communication between R&D, production, and customers.
Key Responsibilities
Preparing samples for both existing and new product development
Carrying out quality control testing on raw materials and finished products against defined thermal/physical specifications
Analysing samples using differential scanning calorimetry and monitoring solidification/melting profiles
Using additional analytical techniques such as pH, conductivity, and density testing
Accurately recording and reporting analytical results in both digital and paper-based systems
Acting as a link between industrial, R&D, and manufacturing teams, ensuring smooth product scale-up and alignment with customer requirements
Supporting research into new products, improvements to existing formulations, and refinement of analytical methods
About You
Degree in Chemistry or a related field is preferred (other relevant qualifications/experience will be considered)
Hands-on laboratory experience is essential
Able to work accurately from written and verbal instructions with minimal supervision
Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to collaborate across different departments
Organised, adaptable, and able to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively
Project management experience would be advantageous
Flexible, proactive, and willing to support wider business activities when required
Why Join?
This role offers the opportunity to make a tangible impact within a forward-thinking organisation, where innovation, collaboration, and scientific rigour drive success.
Cranleigh STEM is a specialist recruitment partner in STEM, Sustainability, and SHEQ. We work with innovative organisations and purpose-led professionals to help solve some of the world’s most pressing challenges, from advancing clean technologies to driving scientific discovery.
We understand that progress in these fields depends on people. Our role is to connect the right individuals with the right teams, whether that’s scientists in the lab, engineers on the ground, or leaders at the helm.
🚀 Our Mission
To support innovative organisations by delivering the talent they need to grow, evolve, and make a meaningful impact in their field.
🔎 Our Core Values
Challenge
We’re comfortable working in complex, technical spaces. We approach every brief with curiosity and care, asking the right questions to deliver people who can genuinely move your organisation forward.
Collaboration
We see recruitment as a partnership. That means open communication, transparency, and shared goals, whether you’re building a team or looking for your next role.
Commitment
We take pride in the work we do. We’re committed to high standards, long-term relationships, and doing what’s right for our clients, our candidates, and the industries we serve.
💡 Our Purpose
To contribute to a more sustainable and innovative future by helping organisations in science and technology attract and retain the talent they need to grow responsibly and with purpose.
🌍 Our Reach
Headquartered in South London, we work with clients and candidates across the UK, Europe, and the USA.
🔬 Areas of Expertise
Biotechnology
Pharmaceuticals
Chemicals & Materials
Food Technology
Clean Technology
Electric Vehicles & Sustainable Engineering
If you're hiring or exploring your next move in STEM, we’re here to help.
